I wanted say how much I welcomed the words in Kay’e Balogun’s
column in issue 109. The divisions he refers to are the very differences which
politicians use to prevent any of us getting the care and services we deserve.
As he so effectively points out, we have so many of the same issues to deal
with. OK, we may deal with them in our own way, but the objective
is the same.
In NHS terms we are a very small patient group and I am firmly committed to
the philosophy of inclusion that was so powerfully demonstrated at last years
Changing Tomorrow conference. Though the hundreds of positive
people there did indeed reflect the diversity of our society, there was a
noticeable lack of any phobias.
Let’s work to make more of our ‘societies’ fit this model.
Tom Matthews, birmingham
Well done Chris Smith. For a politician to take a stand and say something
that could damage his career is brave indeed. He may lose votes from some
small-minded people but I’m sure that most people will find it a refreshing
change to hear someone being honest. I’m sure that now he has taken
this courageous stand others in prominent positions will follow.
After six years of hiding my meds and making up excuses about hospital visits
I plucked up the courage myself and told my boss that I was HIV positive.
She couldn’t have been more supportive and it feels like a weight has
been lifted off my shoulders.
I recommend it to anyone.
bob thompson, glasgow
Ah, politicians. You gotta love ‘em. So Chris Smith ‘came out’ as positive after being inspired by Nelson Mandela talking about his son dying
from HIV. Seems pretty unlikely to me. It should have been obvious for the
whole of the 17 years that he kept it to himself that it was the right thing
to do. Sure,
people have every right to keep their private life private. But when disclosing
his status could have helped some of the people he purports to represent overcome
the prejudice faced daily by people living with HIV, it can only be political
expediency that made him keep schtum. Until we all stop being dishonest with
our partners, friends and colleagues, HIV stigma will remain and all the campaigns
in the world won’t change that.
john, surrey
I am writing to you in light of the fact the Government is looking into how
it can reduce the number of people claming incapacity benefit. I have been
living with HIV for many years and have numerous friends some
who I have cared for in the same situation.Before 1995, people with HIV could
receive full Disability Living Benefit for life which is linked with incapacity
benefit if a person is not working, plus housing benefit. Taken together,
one is looking at a fairly good income for not working, if indeed the person
does not need to pay for extra help and care. After 1995, as combination therapy
became more successful, the situation changed and DLA became harder to get
for new claimants, however not for people already receiving the benefit.
I believe all people living with HIV and receiving full level DLA for life
should now be reviewed as many are in good health and capable of working.
I do not blame the people receiving the benefit. I blame the Government for
not keeping up with the changing situation and making it too easy for these
long term survivors. This
situation does not help anyone as it contributes to more people than necessary
claming incapacity, as
benefits are linked. I have seen friends sit at home for years and lose some
of their self-respect, skills and confidence, even though their health is
stable. I think this is really sad as some of my friends had good jobs making
good money. Sure, these jobs were stressful but at least these people felt
like they had a purpose and a reason to get up in the morning. These are educated
and talented people who are able to contribute to their own lives as well
as to the lives of others. It is a shame and a waste of resources that they
are not encouraged to reach their potential and that society leaves them behind.
Of course there should be a safety net for people that truly need to be on
benefits, but if a person is able to maintain their health it is well proven
that they do better as a whole person by working. Therefore I would be very
pleased if the Government would look at moving with the changing times regarding
HIV treatments, while reviewing people on DLA for life or an indefinite period
and help these people help themselves. Claimants receiving these benefits
are required to inform the benefits agency of any change in their situation
(ie better health). In reality this does not always happen.
Name and address supplied.
Poor Danny! After reading your column all I can say is the guy who dumped
you is a fool. And ask yourself - if he’s afraid of the ‘boyfriend’
word how much good is he going to be in a real crisis? You’re better
off without him. Go out and find yourself someone who isn’t afraid of
their feelings. I’m available and if you fancy a date...
Name and address supplied.
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