• Remember those lost to AIDS and those now struggling with it
(published Saturday, December 13, 2008 in The State)

On Dec. 1, I attended the 20th annual World AIDS Day Candlelight Vigil held in on the steps of the S.C. State House.

I was reminded of the World AIDS Day Vigil held in 1988 at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, just across the street from where we stood. Like then, it was a cold night. My partner and I attended that service. We didn’t know that it would be the only World AIDS Day Service he would live to attend. I thought of what that event was then and how it had changed over the course of 20 years.

Twenty years ago, a few community and spiritual leaders from different faiths gathered to pray for understanding and strength to come to grips with a largely unknown disease. A large part of the service was devoted to calming fears. Also, we prayed that science would be led to find a cure and treatment. There were prayers for those living with AIDS and for their caregivers. It was a solemn service with more things unknown than known. Few identified as having the disease.
On Dec. 1, some of that same original group were joined by S.C. Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer, Columbia Mayor Bob Coble, and Richland County Councilman-elect Jim Manning. The message is different, but in many ways the same. We still seek strength and understanding. We still seek a cure and better treatment for those living with HIV/AIDS, and we pray for their caregivers. We also challenge those in leadership positions to support increased awareness and prevention of HIV/AIDS.

Participants were challenged to get tested and know their status and encourage their friends and family to do the same.

Today, there are many drugs used in treating HIV with several more in development, and we still pray for a cure. With all we know, people are still becoming infected with HIV, and people still get sick and die with AIDS.

Please remember those who fought and lost the battle with HIV/AIDS. I also ask that you lift up those now living with HIV that their lives continue to improve with available treatment.

Ask our community leaders to provide the necessary HIV testing, awareness and prevention messages in appropriate venues. Let’s continue to support access to treatment and services necessary to improve the lives of those living with HIV. Remember, everyone has a part to play in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

RICK FELDER
Columbia