The first World Aids Day took place in December of 1988. Much has transpired regarding the treatment of those HIV positive over the past three decades.
Anthony Smallwood is the community engagement manager for Aids Volunteers of Kentucky, based in Lexington.
“From where it began to where we are now, we now finally have the means to, believe it or not, we’ve changes things to a very bold statement. We can eliminate HIV, if everybody played by the rules,” said Smallwood.
Smallwood said that includes staying on a healthy regime and taking appropriate medications. He noted AVOL Kentucky now serves people in 72 counties across the Commonwealth. Smallwood added the HIV testing van travels to many counties. The AVOL community engagement manager said this is a time of year when clients may need rent and utility assistance. “People are often put in a position where they have to choose what they spend their money on. And if it’s between a child going without a Christmas gift or paying the electric bill, they are more than likely not gonna let that child go without for Christmas,” explained Smallwood.
When people ask how they can help when volunteering in-person is difficult, Smallwood said there is always more to be done to reduce the stigma of HIV.
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