Today is World AIDS Day. People all over the world will be bringing awarness of this very serious disease. Years ago I had an opportunity to meet a woman who had AIDS. She was not gay. I think some people still think it’s a disease that hits one segment of the population
. This woman was just like you. She was on several medications that she had to be on. I shook her hand. I admit ten years ago I was scared to shake her hand. I imagine she had more to fear from me than I had of her. I could get her sick. My common cold to her could have put her in the hospital but there she was talking to me knowing the risk she takes without wearing a face mask. She was there to let us know AIDS doesn’t have a race, sex, or sexual orientation. AIDS could happen to you or someone you love.
“ HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system – the body’s defence against diseases. The latest research suggests that between 70 and 90 per cent of people may experience symptoms of infection a few days after having been infected. Three symptoms occurring together: fever, rash and a severe sore throat should always be considered a potential indicator of HIV infection. These symptoms usually disappear within two or three weeks. Other people may not have symptoms to start with. In all cases, without effective treatment the immune system will eventually become very weak and no longer be able to fight off illnesses.”
AIDS is what happens when your body is too weak to control HIV. This is why early detection is important. There is no cure but there is treatment.
Someone with HIV can lead a happy healthy life. Magic Johnson was diagnosed with HIV in the 1990’s. He has been living with HIV since. With Magic Johnson it has not progressed to AIDS. Magic Johnson has become committed to educating others about HIV/ AIDS.
Sites to view with more information on HIV/AIDS:
