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Charlie, your essay struck home with me. I too, witnessed friends living and dying in the 80s and 90s. Too many. Tears shed, so much opportunity lost. I too, at age 56 was diagnosed HIV positive in 2012, and thanks to the one pill regimen I am able to afford only through my insurance, I am undetectable and healthy. I miss my friends and so wish they could have held on just a little longer. Sometimes I feel guilty knowing that they had not done anything that I have not done, yet they were gone and here I am. This virus will be defeated. I have faith.
Thanks, Butch (great name, by the way...). I appreciate your comment and i am grateful that there are fellow travelers who know the trauma we endured, and that still effects us. And I am so happy to hear that you continue to thrive while continuing to share our important history with others. Best of luck to you, my friend.
Thanks Charlie for sharing your story and Tom's story. Both are amazing journeys and both are equally important. I am glad you are doing well and pray for continued health for you and your partner. I have been around the epidemic for 25 years and have had many moments like the one you shared about Tom. I know the helpless anger of only if my friends could have held on a few more months just maybe they would still be here to share a laugh or hug with me. Keep sharing and telling your story and the story of friends. We can't afford to forget our history as it is the foundation of our survival
Charlie Finlay
Thanks, Ron. I like to think we are here for a reason -- perhaps just to share our stories, perhaps to remember those we lost and honor their memory by continuing the fight. We will end this. Keep the faith!
July 26, 2013