ABC reporter reveals he's HIV-positive, ending 10 year secret

An outpouring of support for Los Angeles-based ABC News Correspondent Karl Schmid after publicly announcing he’s HIV-positive.

In a touching Facebook post, 37-year-old Schmid wrote about the hardships that have come with his status.

“I work in television. And on the side of the camera where, for better or worse it’s considered ‘taboo’ for people ‘like me’ to be ‘like me,'" he wrote. "But here’s the thing. I’m me. I’m just like you. I have a big heart and I want to be loved and accepted. I may be on TV from time to time, but at the end of the day I’m just an average guy who wants want we all want. To be accepted and loved by our friends and family and to be encouraged by our peers."

The Australian-born reporter, known for his coverage of Hollywood events, explains how for 10 years he’s been living with the virus, yet he’s kept it a secret because colleagues and industry professionals warned disclosing his status would ruin his career.

See photos of Karl Schmid:

"So here’s what I say, stand tall, and stand proud," he continued. "For anyone who has ever doubted themselves because of those scary three letters and one symbol, let me tell you this, you are somebody who matters. Your feelings, your thoughts, your emotions count."

A day after posting his heart-felt message, Schmid reached out to his followers once again calling the day "insanely overwhelming."

"I had NO idea that me sharing something would have such an impact," he said. "For those of you who dm’d with your stories THANK YOU."