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Time passes quickly. I remember the covers of the magazine you've made when Stephen left us. POZ was not the same without him anymore.I didn't know him, but his articles were incredible, he was always sharing with us the results of his own experience against AIDS. I'm sure that he would say something today on how people underestimate AIDS because we have a lot of new drugs and people simply are being less cautious. AIDS still kills people. Ten years ago I rememember mourning Stephen Gendin. He will be missed forever. But I'm sure he's in a beautiful place, sharing love, ideas and laughs with loved ones. God bless him and all of us.
Thanks for taking time to share this with us. Too often, after we lose someone to AIDS, we tend to sweep it under the carpet, especially if we are also HIV+. Perhaps subconsciously we realize that could be us in the casket, I don't know. My partner died in 2008, and he always said that if you are remembered, you're not really gone. I will always remember him, and I miss him terribly. Even 10 years later, I feel your loss, and I'm sorry for it. As Tiny Tim said, "God Bless us, everyone."
Stephen was set up at a booth at a POZ forum in DC probably 13 years ago. (I'm not too good on dates) We talked for a long time about medicine, his and mine. I was newly diagnosed, scared and on Crixivan. He was taking a pile of pills and showed me his portable pillbox. Talking to him helped me. And mercy, he was ATTRACTIVE.
I was fortunate to meet Stephen once at the first gay men's health summit. He had terrific energy and a great spirit. Thanks for sharing this memory, Sean.
What a nice, heartfelt tribute. There are many unsung heroes who were lost to this virus, yet somehow may have made a contribution to how this disease is now viewed and treated. Sometimes all you can do is just keep fighting...just keep fighting!
Many thanks for your article on your friend Stephen. I can only imagine how his passing left a hole in your life. You have enlightened those of us who never got to know him. I wish you a speedy recovery for your ankle. I'll be thinking of you and wishing you all the best that can be had! Tim
My heart aches the loss of every beautiful man, woman to this disease. My few days of self pity about my own HIV is pale to the death of so many. Mispah.
Bob Hitt
Thanks Sean... I have needed a bit of Stephen in my life after so long... Your and Shawn's remembrances have sparked him in me once again... I remember the night he told a group of us he was HIV positive. If hearts breaking made a noise we would have all become deaf... He was such a spitied and giving man... I turn to his memory often. Larry Kramers eulogy was one of the most moving I have heard. Thanks...my best to you and yours...
October 15, 2010