World AIDS Day

Today is World AIDS Day.

Today is the 20th anniversary of the "annual event dedicated to remembering those we've lost to the virus and to recommitting with vigor to the fight against AIDS." (POZ Dec. 2008)

What do you think of, who do you think of, when you think of AIDS??? For many, this is NOT the face of HIV or AIDS...

Yet, this is my daughter, Olivia, HIV positive. Living with the virus. And kicking it's rear end!

HIV is not the "death sentence" it used to be. And for many, that's still the image burning in their minds. And while here in the US, HIV has become more easily managed than diabetes!, in some places there are still many who are unfortunately dying from AIDS. Especially many in third world countries. Many who can't get access to the now available meds that can control this disease.

There is so much we can all do to support one another, to give a voice to HIV and AIDS, to educate one another, be there for one another, help out. More than 33 MILLION people around the world are living with HIV. And these people have numerous family and friends. There are many affected by HIV, either themselves or those whose lives touch someone fighting this.

Today, let's take time to think about how we can help. Who we can help. How we can get the word out. HIV is NOT something to fear, but rather someone to love, someone to be there for, someone to help.