June 5th marked the 40 year anniversary of the first official reporting, in the CDC’s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), of cases that would later become known as Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome and HIV. The anniversary is also HIV Long-Term Survivors Awareness Day, honoring those that have lived with HIV for 25 or more years and raising awareness of their needs, issues, and experiences. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the past 40 years of HIV and the impact it has had on so many communities.
In Texas, there are 9,580 people who have been living with HIV for 25 or more years. Last year, Achieving Together was honored to host a webinar featuring a panel of incredible individuals, highlighting the experiences and journeys of long-term survivors from Texas. We encourage you to revisit the webinar and hear from these wonderful community members as you reflect on this anniversary and honor HIV Long-Term Survivors Awareness Day.
To learn more about the history of HIV check out this short informative video covering the last 40 years.
We also encourage you to visit the National AIDS Memorial to view the virtual AIDS Memorial Quilt and see their 40 Years 40 Stories page where they have begun to share the stories and experiences of people living with HIV.