During the lead up to this month’s article I found myself seeking a way to connect significant events that impact me greatly during the coming two months under a common theme. Each of these events involves the remembrance and honouring of those who have battled and been lost, and those still caught in the battles that exist today. This is also a time for me to remember, reflect upon and celebrate the 20th anniversary of my HIV diagnosis. These are each very different battles yet each has resulted in losses that seem so unnecessary to those directly impacted, or to those watching powerless as it happens right before their eyes.
I grew up a child in the military where my dad was being posted every two or three years to new and, at times, not so exciting places. I have been fortunate enough to travel and meet many different people, cultures and beliefs from around the world and across our own great country.
It is this upbringing that has always given me a deep connection to that military background with a strong understanding and respect for Remembrance Day, November 11th; what it stands for and, for those who have fought from World War 1 to the conflicts we see unfolding today. I may not always agree with the reasons for our soldiers being in a combat situation. I have, however, always supported our military wherever they may be deployed. Without their courage, determination and great losses we would not have a world that for all its flaws, still allows us the privilege of living in a free and democratic society.
It is this same courage, determination and great loss that also has me remembering World AIDS Day, December 1st and the many people I know, have known, and sadly will never get the chance to know, due to being taken by HIV infection and various AIDS illnesses during these past 25 years. It is frightening for me to know that we have been battling an infection affecting people globally for so long, and at times it appears we are no closer to defeating it than we were in the beginning. On the positive side and as a result of the battles by many before me; HIV has now moved into the realm of “chronic illness” where with proper medications, access to health care, housing, supports and nutrition, people are living longer than ever imagined in the beginning of the HIV epidemic. Ensuring that access to these basic human rights is met and provided to everyone in need continues to be the greatest battle in creating a good quality of life for persons living with HIV/AIDS and the communities they live in.
This is also a time for me to reflect upon the time I was first told I was HIV positive and, according to my doctor at the time, I would likely not live more than 5 years; the last two being those of deteriorating health, severe illnesses and eventual passing. I remember “Diagnosis Day” November 7th, 1988 and the feeling that there was no future or hope for me and the many others living with HIV and AIDS. I remember hiding and withdrawing from my friends, family and community in an effort to keep the secret and just wait for the eventuality the doctors had given me. Today I am here to be both grateful and thankful to all those who have been lost to HIV and AIDS, to those who played guinea pigs in clinical trials for the development of new drugs for others living with HIV, to the drug companies who have developed new treatments to allow us to live longer and somewhat healthier lives; and lastly to my friends, family and partner who are at my side always no matter what comes next.
Not everyone living with HIV and AIDS is as lucky as me to have all of these supports and treatments helping them to live longer and more productive lives. That is a battle that continues today and with the help of many more brave individuals it is my hope we will see this come to a time where isolation, fear and stigmas are no longer barriers. The common theme to this article for me will simply be one of “Remembrances and Reflections” for those who have fought and been lost. Their sacrifices, losses and memories must be honoured and remembered for their heroism in the face of overwhelming odds, and their abilities to make the ultimate sacrifice for the betterment of us all.
It is my hope you will take this time to reflect on what you have today, remember what it has cost and how it was paid for. Thank and remember them all with respect, honour and dignity.
If you are planning an event for AIDS Awareness Week or World AIDS Day and would like to promote it on a World AIDS Day events calendar, please forward the information, dates, contact persons and numbers to crasmussen@aidscalgary.org for inclusion.
