During our recent World AIDS Day commemoration, we heard and shared experiences, remembered those taken, and stood together in the fight against HIV. One of eleven official global public health campaigns marked by the World Health Organization, World AIDS Day, observed on December 1st shines a light on the disease that as of 2020 has taken the lives of an estimated 36 million people worldwide and an equal number who are living with HIV. Much solace can be taken in the knowledge that improved access to anti-viral treatment in most regions of the world has resulted in a decrease of 64% in the death rate from AIDS since its peak in 2004.

And although the annual December 1st World AIDS Day has passed, solidarity for and remembrance of those who are living with the disease and/or those lost to it is a year-long resolve at Whittier Street Health Center.

Our free sexual health screenings and HIV testing are conducted in a confidential, non-judgmental, and supportive environment. We also extend support to HIV patients by linking them to appropriate medical care, treatment, and emotional assistance programs and offer information about various community resources, education, and referrals to social services.

It has been more than 40 years since the outbreak of HIV and AIDS swept the world and while there is no known cure as of yet, anti-viral treatment and other medical advances have come a long way in helping the medical industry protect and preserve the lives of those living with the disease.

We must also protect and preserve the emotional wellbeing of those living with HIV and continue the fight against the stigma that sadly is still experienced by many.