Living with HIV in the Philippines: What World AIDS Day Means to Me: Jeffrey James Garcia

WORLD AIDS DAY

Jeffrey James Garcia

(Read during The Red Ribbon World AIDS Day Event, UP Sunken Garden Granstand,

December 1, 2013)

World AIDS Day for me is a celebration of life.

It is also a time we pause to reflect on the ways in which HIV has changed our world. A time we celebrate the exciting medical progress and continuous research against HIV, while we grieve for the numerous lives it has claimed.

Many challenges remain but we should all still be optimistic in fighting this battle.

There are still far too many people who aren't educated about HIV and AIDS and who don't get tested. It is a fact that a lot of people right now are living with HIV and others do not know that they have it. These people who are not aware and not benefiting from treatment is a risk of passing the virus on. This means that a lot of other people could be dying from a preventable and treatable condition.

That is why it is very important that we educate the people about HIV and the vital role of early diagnosis. Getting tested today is quick and simple compared to the process years ago.

We should all unite, act and educate others what HIV is really all about.

Let us not stop hoping and praying that one day, the ongoing research will lead to a vaccine or cure; and that fear, ignorance and stigma will be replaced by love and understanding.

Today, letís challenge ourselves to think about what we can do to help. Someday, your children or grandchildren may ask, ìWhat did you do?î Letís make sure we have a good answer for them.

To our family, friends and loved ones -- let us spread the message about education, testing and early diagnosis. And to everyone who are currently in the fight against HIV and AIDS for years now -- you should be proud.

Mabuhay tayong lahat.