33 million people are infected with HIV worldwide, including 2.5 million children. In underdeveloped countries the outlook remains bleak, with 2 million people dying every year.
However, in the West a diagnosis of HIV is no longer a death sentence. There is still no cure, but it has become a long term condition that can be treated and managed. Interest in gene therapy for HIV is increasing and recently a patient seems to have been “cured” of HIV by having a bone marrow transplant from a donor who had the genetic resistance to the virus.
A very close friend of mine has been positive for over 10 years. He was diagnosed in 1996 and we all thought he was going to die. I saw him last week. He looks great and aside from having to spend a lot of time managing his illness and controlling the drugs he leads a relatively normal life. Of course he had to completely reassess his life, but he remains one of the most upbeat people I know with a wicked sense of humour.
So. On the 20th World Aids Day I dedicate this post to him. The day is about raising money, increasing awareness, fighting prejudice and improving education. There is still much to be done.
Janelle
December 1, 2008thanks for this post lulu. a good reminder. wow. didn;t realize those stats were so high. one would never think so living here…
righto.
i look forward to some lulubanter later on in the evening…
glad the radio silence has been broken. boring anyway. for us, that is! xx j
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December 1, 2008The statistics are indeed very frightening, and sobering!….I too know someone in very similar situation to your friend and I know he would hugely appreciate your comments and dedication. We must all still do our bit to raise awareness and fight prejudice. Well done for drawing our attention to this today – and great to have you back – the disco sounds a riot! X!