Letters to the Editor

To the Editor:

Thank you so much for publishing the "Special Issue on HIV and Aging" (GMHC Treatment Issues, April-June 2007). As a 60-year-old woman, I am glad to see people in my age group finally being included in the HIV discussion.

Twenty years ago, I watched many of my best friends die. My closest friend was diagnosed just before the first PIs came out, and he has remained in fairly good health since. Nevertheless, both of us are starting to experience some of the physical problems that come with growing older. He is positive and I am negative, but we are both facing arthritis, diabetes, and elevated cholesterol. The difference is that his condition is complicated by his HIV and the meds he is taking for that.

My friend and I have been each other's main supports over the years. I've helped him cope with bad drug side effects, while he bolstered me through my divorce. We're both looking at the future with a bit of trepidation, and we need the kind of information that was put forth in this issue.

Sincerely,
Angela Laurence

To the Editor:

Thank you for your article "Immigrant Women with HIV" by Rosa Bramble Weed (ACRIA Update, Winter 2008). I am one of those immigrant women who had to face many of the issues discussed. I found myself alone, without family, feeling powerless, and not having anywhere to go or anyone to speak with. Once I tested HIV positive I found myself even more desolate, not knowing about services available, or what would happen to me as an immigrant who had just tested positive.

There is such a lack of attention and services for immigrant women with HIV. There is a need for continued empowerment and programs that will allow all women to take control of their lives and make decisions about protecting themselves. More information needs to be made available. I felt the article made recommendations that are not only logical but also not so difficult that they cannot be accomplished.

Thanks,
Sandra Ramirez

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