BCPW·A - CHODARR

BCPW·A
A
PUBLICATION
OF THE
BRITISH
PERSONS
JUNE
I
WITH
JULY
COLUMBIA
AIDS
1998
SOCIETY
I
ISSUE
103
•
j U ne 20
Meet artist Johanne Corno at a
private reception and show
PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT THE
BC PER SON S WIT H RID S Soc I
RSVP (604) 688.4520
MICHEL
BLAIS
GALLERY
900
HOWE
ST,
ETV
VANCOUVER
FEATURE
BRITISH COLUMBIA
PER50N WITH AIDS
11
SOCIETY
The Art of Activism
How a young artist and a
seasoned activist collaborated
on a some powerful paintings
The British Columbia Persons with AIDS
Society is dedicated to empowering
persons living with HIV disease and AIDS
through mutual support and collective
action.
BCPWA is Western Canada's largest AIDS
organization with a membership of over
3600 individuals.
BCPWA News Editorial Committee
Doug MacKay, Tom Mountford,
Michael Scroda
that help raise awareness
about HIV and AIDS.
4
5
Managing Editor
Jim Pearce
Editorial
Doug McKay introduces BCPWA News' new look and tears a strip
off the government's agenda.
Newsreel
We look at the latest health, social and political issues for PWAs at
home and around the world, including new drug treatments, a
pregnancy study, and concern about an STD outbreak in Be.
Copy Editing/Data Entry
Jim Pearce, Michael Scroda
Graphic Design
Working Design
Contributing Writers
Clyde Richardson, Kasandra, Doug McKay,
Suzan Krieger, Ruben Acosta
Distribution
Kelly Sims
7
9
Postively Happening
Michael Scroda, Kasandra
Communications and
Marketing Developer
Pierre Beaulne
Copyright © 1998 BCPWA News
TEL (604) 893-2255 ext. 209
FAX (604) 893-2251
TOLL FREE 1-800-994-2437
BCPWA News is published by the British Columbia
Persons with AIDS Society. This publication may
Treatment Update
A warning about a popular painkiller, and good news about
exercise.
Non-fiction
Clyde Richardson considers the perplexing state of life and
friendship with HIV. "Fear is what you turn it into."
10
Advocacy News
14
Sharing our Skills
15
Financial help may be available if you need to move.
BCPWA needs your help, and you can gain valuable experience.
Kvik Recipes by Kasandra
How to treat your dates.
report on experimental and alternative therapies,
but the Society does not recommend any particular
therapy. Opinions expressed are those of the
individual authors and not necessarily those of the
16
Society.
Positively Happening
Your guide to just about everything - support groups, medical
clinics, help lines, free services, and much more I
Our office is located at:
1107 Seymour Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 558.
Phone (604) 681-2122. Fax (604) 893-2251.
E-mail pwanews@parc.org
BCPWA online www.bcpwa.org
The British Columbia Persons with AIDS Society is
registered charitable organization. (Revenue Canada
Reg. #0760124-11-27)
22
Last Blast
Ruben Acosta discovers some little-known treatment side effects
and loses his fashion sense.
Plus ~a change
PAR TON E Welcome to the new look of
BCPWA NEWS! As I write this, I haven't seen the
new look yet myself, so it will be as much of a surprise to me when I see it as it is to you. All of BCPWA's
publications will now be published in a similar format, using the services of one design/printing company, which (as you
might have guessed) is
intended to take some
"...our provincial government
of the strain off of the
has been using the stalking
publications budget.
As far as BCPWA
horse of fiscal responsibility as
NEWS
goes,
the
a thinly disguised club to bash
change in format will
the poor and less fortunate."
allow us a little more
flexibility in the kind of
material we choose to
include.
However,
some of our regular inclusions have undergone
changes, mostly in terms of their placement within
the magazine. As ofthis issue Radio Free PWA ceases
to exist. It has been replaced by our Op-Ed page,
which will consist of regular editorials from members of the editorial board, letters to the editor, and
(perhaps) an occasional guest opinion piece. Even
though the look has changed, we still intend to deliver the same quality newsletter you have come to
expect. Enjoy!
PAR T TWO Being somewhat of a political
junkie (no surprises here), I have been absolutely
astounded at the rather ferocious tap-dancing our
political monsters have been doing of late. It has
been apparent for years that our provincial govern-
ment has been using the stalking horse of fiscal responsibility as a thinly disguised club to bash the poor
and less fortunate in our society. It is totally appalling that a party that supposedly believes in social
democracy is carrying out the bashing. Although we
might take consolation that the poor bashing would
be worse under the provincial SoCr. .. er. .. Liberals,
it is the sort of consolation one might feel upon being physically beaten by a two-by-four instead of a
lead pipe.
Our politicians have regressed into a late-nineteen th-century men tal ity in which the poli tical
agenda is increasingly controlled by the interests of
big business and organi ed labour (which at their
core have surprisingly similar agendas: the squeezing out of the smaller, independent competitor) . We,
the poor and Ie fortunate, are increasingly condescended to, and repressed by, the politicians who
kow-tow to vested economic interests and concern
themselves more with getting re-elected than represen ting and assisting us wi th our needs and concerns.
The less said about the bureaucrats, the better.
If our political, bureaucratic, business and labour
leaders continue to behave in the manner which they
have been, I foresee a day (and a not-too-distant day,
at that) when the phrases "good politician,", "good
bureaucrat," "good businessman," and "good union
member" will be uttered with the same loathing contempt that has heretofore been reserved for the
phrase "good Nazi."
Have a good summer.
Doug McKay
fOT the BCPWA NEWS editorial boaTd
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR CAN BE SENT TO
1107 Seymour Street, Vancouver, Be V6B 558.
Fax (604) 893-2251 E-mail pwanews@parc.org
4
JUNE / JULY 1998
•
BCPWA NEWS
AIDS drug review victory
Federal Health Mini tel' Allan
Rock announced that $42 million
will be pro ided each year to support Canada's ational AIDS
Strategy. And in a surprise move,
also announced that a new drug
review process will be put in place
to speed up the approval of promi ing drugs for AIDS.
"It wa a fairly long fight, and it
got a little nasty at times, but we
are absolutely delighted with federal Health Minister Allan Rock's
announcement that approval of
new HIV/ AIDS drugs will come
much more quickly than in the
past," said Wayne Campbell, Chair
of the British Columbia Persons
With AIDS (BCPWA) Society.
"We have members who are literally dying for these new drugs.
Today, they have new hope."
BCPWA had led the national
fight for the changes in the drug
approval process. He noted that
it wa almost three months ago,
on March 5th, that BCPWA activists picketed outside ofa meeting
Mr. Rock was then having at St.
Paul's Hospital. "We waved signs,
yelled slogans, rele·ased balloons,
and then two of our group actually crashed the Minister's meeting. That got us our own meeting,
which we used to make our points
about the necessity of speeded-up
approval. "
Campbell said the ociety had
also prepared a detailed brief on
the drug appmval process prior
to that action which it had circulated to the Mini ter and widely
within the Health Canada bureaucracy. "We had the numbers.
We had the facts. We'd done our
homework, and then we did our
lobbying.
"We worked hard to get here.
We're happy today. The Minister
listened and acted. Good for
him," said Campbell.
BCPWA's new Peer Support Counsellors are ready for action.
Health care strike may
affect BCPWA
The British Columbia Persons
With AIDS Society (BCPWA) may
have to close its doors, at least for
a few day, ifhealth care and community sector workers across the
province go on strike. For several
months, the provincial government and the Health Employees
Union have been atan impasse in
negotiations affecting tens of
thousands of health care and
community sector employees.
BCPWA and AIDS Vancouver staff
are members of the Health Employees Union. The services provided to over 3000 persons with
HIV disease would be interrupted
if strike action were taken.
"We are caught-up in a much
larger web. While we do enjoy
good labour relations at BCPWA,
it's important to understand that
is not the case in other work environments," said Wayne Campbell,
Chair of BCPWA. "We will do the
best we can to ensure any possible disruption of our services has
the least impact on our 3700
members," he added.
Peer counsellors graduate
from BCPWA training
Fourteen Peer and Support Counsellors recen tly com pleted a fourday training session. Three Counsellors were from the BCPWA
Treatment Information Project,
and three were from other Agencies in B.C. This unique training
opportunity offers sessions
in crisis intervention, selfcare, communication
skills and knowledge of
community resources.
Role-playing common scenarios are helpful to new
counsellors and can be fun
too. Identifying non-verbal communication, increasing awareness
of multi-cultural issues and diversity are part of the skills building
component of the training.
A Down town Eastside/Westside Peer coun elling u-aining is
being planned in partnership
with Vancouver Native Health for
early fall. This training will give
peers from the Down town
Ea tside community an opportunity to serve people who do not
come to the BCPWA space, and
to volunteer in their own neighborhood
Peer counselling is one of the
longest running programs offered by the Society and is an
empowering and rewarding way
to learn and to give back.
If you wish to be interviewed
to attend a future training, sign
up with the BCPW Volunteer
Coordinators at 893-2298 or with
Doreen Littlejohn, Vancouver
Native Health, at 254-9937.
NEWS
FROM
HOME
AND
AROUND
THE
WORLD
continued on next page
JUNE / JULY 7998
•
BCPWA NEWS
5
HIV, hepatitis C spreading
through prisons
NEWS
FROM
HOME
AND
AROUND
A new survey shows hepatitis C
and HIV are spreading faster in
Canadian prisons than anywhere
else in the country. Diseases are
being spread by sharing needles
and unprotected sex The study
From Boston Globe Online
shows that one third of the
inmates at the Joyceville me· Leaders worried by the
dium security prison in King· spread of AIDS
ston, Ontario have hepatitis C.
The State Council of China is
The rate of HIV is 17 times
investigating methods of prehigher than in the general
venting the further spread of
society. The study was conHIV, which is estimated by the
ducted by Dr. Peter Ford. He's
Ministry of Health to affect
an immunologist and head of
between 200,000 and 250,000
the AIDS clinic at Kingston
people in Mainland China at
General Hospital. He says
year-end 1997. HIV was found
both rates of infection
• across the country, with the
have risen significantly
exception of the small province
since he did a similar
of Qinghai. At an executive
study four years ago.
meeting on Wednesday, Health
The diseases are being
Minister Zhang Wenkang called
spread by inmates who
for inter-ministry collaborations
are injecting illegal
against the disease. The ministry
drugs and sharing their
also said it would support a
needles with as many as 20 or 30
United Nations campaign aimed
others. Homemade tattoos and
at encouraging teenagers to
unprotected sex are also responhelp care for HIV-infected
sible.
patients and participate in AIDS
control efforts.
From CBC ewsworld Online
THE
WORLD
it requires pooled donations
from up to 2,000 people, which
can increase the chance of
exposure to pathogens not
washed by the system. Experts
note that the process should still
make plasma safer.
Plasma-washing
technique approved
From South China Morning Post
Online
The Food and Drug AdministraMany HIV-positive
children will survive to
tion approved a New York Blood
adolescence
Cen ter-designed "solven tAccording
to research led by Dr.
detergent plasma" on WednesKuhn
of Columbia
Louise
day that can be used to cleanse
•
University,
approximately
half of
blood plasma of some viruses.
children
born
with
HIV
will
The system, which di solves the
survive to adolescence. The
fatty coating of HIV and two
researchers report in the May
typesofhepatitisanddlen
sue of the American Journal of
i
washes them away, will clean
Epidemiology
on the analysis of
plasma used in the treatment of
data
from
1982
through 1994 of
certain disease. The new cleanschildren
born
with
HIV in New
ing system does not eliminate
York
City.
They
found
that 71
the viruses from red blood cells
per
cent
of
children
who
and, therefore, will not have any
received HIV vertically survived
effect on the safety of blood
to
age five and two-thirds of
transfusions. The blood plasma
children
over the age of five had
will be available to hospitals in
not
yet
progressed
to AIDS. The
two weeks. The system has
authors
noted
that
their esticertain drawbacks, though, since
6
JUNE / JULY 1998
•
BCPWA NEWS
mates are more conservative
than estimates by the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention and that the number of
infected children older than five
years will continue to rise,
despite the use of medication to
reduce perinatal transmission.
From Reuters Health Information
Services
Voluntary HIV tests
preferable in pregnancy
A study published in the May
2nd issue of the Annals of
Internal Medicine indicates that
voluntary HIV testing for
pregnant women has a high rate
of acceptance and is preferable
to mandatory testing due, in
part, to deterrence rates associated with required testing. Dr.
David G. Smith of Abington
Memorial Hospital in Pennsylvania and colleagues also found
that outreach and education
programs improve testing
acceptance and had the greatest
effect on the reduction of
children born with HIV. The
authors e timate that approximately 2,000 children are born
infected with the virus annually
in the United States; however,
they note that if all 7,600 HIVpositive women who give birth
were to be tested, the number of
infected children could be
reduced to 600 a year. Smith et
al. recommend more studies be
done to determine the effects of
mandatory testing policies. The
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention currently endorses
voluntary HIV testing of pregnant women.
From Fox News Online
Syphilis outbreak hits BC
British Columbia is experiencing an increase in syphilis cases,
with an average of 10 new
infections reponed monthly.
continued on page 21
• GOOD NEWS ABOUT EXERCISE AND HIV
• TYLENOL AND AIDS DON'T MIX
• NEW SPANISH INFORMATION PROGRAM
The trouble with Tylenol
The popular pain reliever appears to cause more
immune system damage to people with HN/ AIDS
Tylenol is a popular pain reliever
because it works for many people.
However, for people with damaged livers or kidneys, Tylenol
may not be safe. Since people with
HIV/ AIDS may already have livers burdened by the use of various medications, attacks byviruses
that cause liver damage and alcohol use, adding
Tylenol may increase liver damage. Indeed, one
recent
study
from Spain suggests that PWAs
may not be able
to detoxify Tylenol as well as other people. Indirectly, use of Tylenol may cause
additional damage to the immune
system.
Study Details
Researchers recruited 9 symptomfree people with HIV (1 female, 8
male) who had an average of 515
CD4+ cells, 19 people with AIDS
(6 female, 13 male) whose average CD4+ count was 94 cells and
another group of 32 healthy, nonHIV-infected volunteers (subjects). All subjects received a single dose of 1.5 grams of Tylenol
between 8 and 9 am. Urine samples were collected over the following 24 hours.
Results
By analyzing urine samples, researchers found that people with
AIDS were, on average, less able
to detoxify Tylenol compared to
other subjects. This difference
was statistically significant; that is,
not likely due to luck or chance.
The likely I-eason for the reduced abili.ty of people with AIDS
to detoxify Tylenol is that their
livers don't contain enough GSH
(glutathione). Liver and other
cells use GSH to protect themselves from harmful chemical reactions. Several studies have
found less than normal levels of
GSH in people with decreasing
CD4+ cell counts, and at least one
study has linked declining CD4+
cell counts to decreasing GSH levels. Other studies have suggested
PWAs may not be able to make
enough GSH to meet their needs.
So substances that use up the
body's supply of GSH may contribute to the decline of the immune system.
How to get more GSH
The body makes GSH using the
amino acid cysteine, which is
found in eggs, dairy products and
supplements such as Immunocal.
Another more direct way of obtaining cysteine is to take supplements of AC (N-acetyl-cysteine),
which is licensed in
orth
America for the treatment of
Tylenol poisoning and is available
from some buyers clubs and
health food stores. utritional
guidelines for PWAs produced by
Lark Lands and Chester Myers
and others, are available from
CATIE.
References
1. Esteban A. Perez-Mateo M, Boix
V, et al. Abnormalities in the metabolism of acetaminophen in
patients infected Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Methods and Findings in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology
1997; 19(2): 129-132.
2. Herzenberg LA, De Rosa SC,
Dubs JG, et al. Glutathione deficiency is associated with impaired
survival in HIV disease. Proceedings of the ational Academy of
Sciences SA 1997; 94(5):19671972.
3. Blair PJ, Boise LH, Perfetto SP,
et al. Impaired induction of the
apoptosis-protective protein Bclxl in activated PBMC from asymptomatic HIV-infected individuals.
Journal of Clinical Immunology
1997;17(3):234-246.4. Watson
WG, Rotstein aD, Jimenez M, et
al. Augmented intracellular glutathione inhibits Fas-triggered
apoptosis of activated human
neutrophils. Blood 1997; 89(11):
4175-4181.
Reprinted from Treatment Update.
# 79, v. 9 n. 5, 1997July
Toronto: CATIE.
JUNE / JULY 1998
•
BCPWA NEWS
7
Prior was ting linked to increases
in viral load, exercise is not
A team of researchers in Cali- treatme nt of wasting if RNA levfornia has reported evidence of els are elevate d."
The team's finding s are rea direct link between prior
ported in the recent issue of the
weight loss and recent HIV lev- Journa l of Acquir ed Immun
e Deels in patien ts with AIDS-re- ficiency Syndro mes and Human
Retrovi rology (1998; 17:411- 418).
lated wasting.
Dr. Fred Saftler and colleag ues
at the Univers ity of Southe rn California evaluat ed 33 HIV+ patient s
who had lost approx imately 10.5
kg over a period of 461 days. The
subject s' median viral load was
46,887 copies/ m!.
In reviewi ng their
data, the reearche rs found
that as viral load
levels increas ed so
did the degree of
weight change observed In the
study subjects .
The loss in weight
was describ ed as "chroni c" and
"relentl ess" in 32 of 33 subject s,
nearly half of whom showed no
evidenc e of opportu nistic infections or digestiv e compli cations
that might explain their weight
loss. As well, factors such as low
testoste rone levels and change s in
body cell mass were ruled out as
the cause of weight loss and viral
load increas es in these subject s.
Instead , the subject s' dramat ic
weight loss was attribut ed to the
increas ed activity of pro-inf lammatory cytokin es that accomp anies HIV replicat ion. ot surprisingly, the researc hers conclud e,
"... aggress ive treatme n t of the primary infectio n should be the first
pharm alogic interve ntion for
8
JUNE I JULY 1998
•
BCPWA NEWS
High-i ntens ity exerci se
deem ed safe
Regula r physica l activity has long
been viewed as an effectiv e way of
managi ng stress and contrib uting
to an improv ed quality of life for
people with HlV. As well, resistance trainin g in particu lar is
known to help increas e lean body
mass, or muscle , which helps the
body figh t off disease and preven t
muscle wasting . In general , however, people with I-IlV have traditionally been advised to exercis e
modera tely for fear t11at intense
activi ty migh t actually weaken the
immun e system and possibly increase viral load. Howev er, researche rs at Tufts niversit y in
Massac h usetts have recen tly released evidenc e to the contrar y.
Dr. Ronen n Roube noff and
colleag ues studied the effects of
intensiv e exercise on 25 HIV+ subjects. Viral load measur es taken
immedi ately after 15 minute s of
high-in tensity exercis e and again
one week later showed no increase in HIV activity. In fact, a
slight decreas e in viral load was
observe d
Given the risks associa ted with
pharma ceutica l method s of battling wasting in people with I-IIV,
such as testoste rone and growth
hormo ne injectio ns, Dr. Roubenoff conclud es that exercis e is a
safe alternat ive for buildin g vital
muscle mass in people living with
HIV.
(Source: Reuters Health
Information)
Nue vo
Informacion en
Espanol
BCPWA Treatm ent Inform ation
Program (TIP)
Ofrece mos inform acion en
espano l sobre terapia s y
tratami entos para la infeccio n de
VIH y SIDA.
Conse jeria individ ual es
disponi ble todos los Mierco les y
Jueves de 10:00A M a 5:00PM
Visiten os a nuestra direccio n:
BCPWA
Progra ma de Inform acion sobre
los Tratam ientos
A la entrad a, a un lado de la
libreria "PARe"
1107 Seymo ur Street
Vancou ver, B.C. V6G 5S8
o llamen os a nuestr a linea
directa: Te!. (604) 893-224 3
NON-FICTION
I
CLYDE RICHARDSON
How can this be?
A
fter fourteen years with AIDS one would expect to
have seen it all. The pain, rejection, the emotional
and physical stress: the profound loss as another compatriot
sinks gracefully, the pain easing as the great beyond looms closer. Life however,
constantly perplexes.
Last fall Ev, a friend for decades, now in a far-off
city, updates me on his bar buddy's latest setback:
bedridden and riddled with a multitude of ills,
hristmas presents definitely on hold! Pain resonates
through the phone, flashbacks to last Christmas
when a workmate struggled to see one last Santa.
Will Santa go down the cremator"ium flue? Time and
phone calls pass, "No, I haven't been to see him,"
echoes over the line. One week before the turkey
was due he passed, another stocking off the fireplace.
And," 0, I can't face the memorial." What to say,
how to express one's empathy, loss, shock and disgust all in one sentence?
Bland sympathy proves easiest a I hit the intel"com button instead of the off button on the phone.
The screech of the beeper shakes me loose, this requires digestion over time.
Several loops later on my roller coaster ride comes
a call from a soulmate's partner, "Ms. DeHavillancl."
Things haven't been pretty. Different though our
afflictions had proved, we've paced each other
closely on this road. Both partnered almost fourteen
years, he had been my prowl partner and main rival
the night my tall, lanky blond entered my sights and
slew my heart.
Lymphoma of the stomach. Casey House likely
and the fear of finality. "Ms. DeHavilland," a hated
tag but one that conjures the poise and pluck his
pirit embodies, is having a rough time with the family. Friends (?) he expected to stick have come
unglued, leaving mumbled, polite apologie on his
an wering machine.
Time and calls fuel our cross-country psychic
links, beaming endurance. I cajole, prod and coo in
an effort to keep us all ready: with hope or with ... ?
The urge to commune with this link in my chain
of life overshadows earlier resolve not to subject
myself to the rigors of travel. A break from chemo is
also very inviting. Where to stay proves a minefield:
family, or with which of the three friends? Fences
always needing to be straddled, I opt for two nights
with Ev, the friend who couldn't bear the pain and
two with "Ms. DeHavilland." Short visit. When your
"be t-by" date is nigh you don't stay out of the fridge
long!
No, Ev won't go to Casey House. I joke that the
purpose of my visit is to see who scares who more? I
still have hair, our friend has been radiated bald and
wears a Captain Kidd eye-patch. Nervous laughter
wells up from the receiver and I lunge, "If you can't
handle this how are you going to deal with me,
DEAR? I scare myself in the mirror."
"You're my best friend, I have to handle you!" Like
the Pacific plate grating against
the orth American continent, ridges ripple in mini-tsunamis across my temple as the
pressure build. I stumble:
••
"Isn't that comforting!"
Reflection past, subplots
anticipated and trip booked,
I marvel at Ev's fears: he's
HIV+ and frightened for himself. Having surrendered to
that fear not so gracefully my elf, my route is clear:
steady and in everyone's face, close up.
The peace and capacity for endurance that my
surrender brought me will some day greet Ev. Fear
is what you turn it into, best only when well shaken.
His pains will add to my load, a price we'll both have
to learn to bear and turn to a power to sustain.
JUNE / JULY 1998
•
BCPWA NEWS
9
advocacy ne.Js
)
~
Ministry may help finance
the high cost of moving
May seems to be a very
busy month for moving, so
here is some information
on getting some monies.
2. Your home is going to be demolished
3. Health and safety officials have
condemned your home
• Or two estimate for a rental
truck from a licensed company
may be substituted.
4. Your home has been destroyed
5. In cases when you are moving
to significantly cheaper accommodations
6. In cases when a person is facing an imminent threat to their
Moving costs
The Ministry will pay for your
move in certain "emergency" situations where the move is beyond
your control. Some examples:
1. Your landlord refuses to allow
you to remain as a tenan t after the
house or apartment is sold.
firm or moving company are required.
physical safety, i.e. physical abuse
7. In cases when a person is being
persecuted by landlord or neighbours.
ote: If a person is being physically, emotionally or mentally
abused please approach the Ministry for their as i tance.
Note
• Maximum amount the Ministry
will pay is 500.00.
• Two estimates from a licensed
Note If the situation does not
fall under any ofthe seven reasons
listed above, you can try to get a
crisis grant to help with the move.
Impress your worker or anyone
else by quoting the regulations on
moving!
Note CPP questions? Call the Advocacy Information Hotline at
(604) 878-8705.
Be Benefits Manual: 10.4.1
Income Assistance Regulations 28
(2) (b) to (j)
Disability Benefits Program
Regulations 20 (2) (b) to (j)
By J. EvinJones and Suzan
Krieger, Advocacy Department,
BCPWA
BCPWA's Theatre Positive
wants to tell your story!
Does your unique story of liVing with HIV/ AIDS need to be told?
Let us help. Theatre Positive is offering two new programs!
PERFORM.IRG ARTS WORKSKOP You do not need to have any theatre experience,
just a desire to tell your story.
VIDEO PROJECT We will videotape your tale and record your unique point of view
in a safe, supportive atmosphere. This means if you feel you might be too shy, you
can still be a part of this valuable work without haVing to be up on a stage.
Come bave fun, sharpen your public speaking skills, improve your confidence or mug
for our camera. Selected work could be a part of our show "Nite Cafe" at this
year's Vancouver Fringe Festival.
Theatre Positive wants to tell it all. All your experiences
are important to us. Join an interesting group of your
peers and work alongside talented volunteers from the
Vancouver theatre community.
Sign up at the BCPWA Info Centre, or call (604)681-2122,
ext323, or 1 (800) 994-2437. Theatre Positive's Artistic
Director Jake Thomas will contact you with further details.
10
JUNE / JULY 1998
•
BCPWA NEWS
In a remote British Columbia town, AIDS activist
Richard Hollingsworth teamed up with Jeff Fletcher, a
brilliant young artist, to create an art awareness
project. Using Hollingsworth's HIV+ blood in the paint,
Fletcher created a sensation with his fantastical art
which is now attracting international attention.
THE HIV/AIDS AWARENESS PROJECT 698
Capturing the essence
of living with AIDS
This concept series ofHIV/ AlDS theme paintings was conceptualized in July of 1997 by Richard Hollingsworth, a person living with
AIDS (PWA) and an HIV/ AIDS educator.
Text describing the following painting has
been edited from materials provided by
Richard Hollingsworth.
The concept crystallized after consultation
with the BC Centres for Disease Control and
in collaboration with artistJeff Fletcher, who
was commissioned to produce a series of three
theme pain tings addressing social issues surrounding HIV/ AlDS.
HIV-infected blood, donated by Mr.
Hollingsworth, was rendered innocuous and
infused into the paints used by the artist. Mr.
Fletcher then created three piece of
airbrushed art to portray the concepts.
World history was made on February 27,
1998, when the three pieces were unveiled at
City Hall in the city of Cranbrook, British
Columbia, Canada.
This set oflithographic reproductions, brilliantly created by artistJeffFletcher, captures
and portrays the life and experiences of a
person living with AlDS.
THE ARTIST... Jeff Fletcher, born
on May 29th, 1978, at Kelowna General
Hospital in British Columbia, lives in
Cranbrook with his parents and three
younger sisters. Jeffs art has always been
his greatest passion. With th exception
of school art classes, he has not had any
formal instruction in art. Jeff believes,
however, that art corn s from within and
is not something you can make someone learn. His drawings and paintings
12
JUNE I JULY 1998
•
The paintings
11,700,000 (Sperm/Machine)
As of February 1998, there were 11,700,000+ HIV/
AIDS-related death recorded globally. Every five
minutes, 23 people become HIV positive. Every two
minutes, four women become infected with HN and
one woman dies of HIV/ AIDS-related complications. Of the 30,000,000+ people now HIV positive,
70% are women. HIV is a blood-borne pathogen
and is a major sexually transmitted disease (STD).
This painting is a depiction ofa macro look inside a
human male testicle. The artist cho e to represent
the human male reproductive organ as a factory.
Healthy perm are coming into being and negotiating their journey down the urethra. The syringe
represents the entry point of human immunodeficiency virus into the human body. The virus could
have come from anyone - not necessarily through
IV drug use - for example, one could have received
the virus from tail1led blood transfusions. Healthy
sperm become harbingers of a deadly demonic contagion. The statistics quoted here are statistics from
a factory of death. This painting depicts a factory
in a state of high production. Will it ever end?
have taken many forms over the years.
At present he concentrates mostly on
pencil drawings and airbrushing.
AND THE ACTIVIST Richard
Hollingsworth is a person living with
HIV/ AIDS and an HIV/ AIDS educator and activist. An accomplished public speaker, he is known throughout
Canada for his work in educating others, particularly young people, about
HIV. Richard, "one who believes in a
BCPWA NEWS
definite policy of appropriate energetic
action," has completed two 750-km
walks, one in Alberta in 1996 and one
in British Columbia in 1997. The purpo e of each walk was to raise levels of
awareness about HfV, to challenge other to become more proactive and compassionate in their responses to the
HIV/ AIDS crisis, and to put a face to
HIVRichardlives in Cranbrook with his
wife Phyli and hi children Chri topher,
Geoffrey, Mathieu, Holly and Kayla.
AIDS Memorial put-up
then pu~·down
Zdenky Burkhardt (left) and
Drew Eves-Lethbridge erected their own "AIDS Memorial" at Vancouver City Hall
on Tue day, April 17, 1998.
They were representing a gay
artists' collective called The
ew Congre s and making a
tatement that despite reports that AIDS is now "manageable"-
the AIDS epidemic is
far from over. The
plaque held six vials of
HIV-positive blood
and a hammer. City
hall security staff
donned rubber gloves
and took the artwork
to the BC Centre for
Disease Con trol for
destruction.
For several years, a permanent AIDS
memorial ha been discussed by the City
of Vancouver's Parks Board. Plans to
go ahead with a memorial were scuttled
just before the last municipal election
after a TV poll showed a mas ive majority of respondents opposed erecting an
AIDS memorial in Stanley Park. Local
politicians flip-flopped and reversed
their decisions to build the monument
fearing political backlash during the
ejection campaign.
460,000 (Embryo)
As of February 1998,
460,000+ children in Africa
have died of AIDS-related
complications. Children are
our tomorrows, and the
death of one child from
AIDS is one less tomorrow.
This painting symbolizes
this tragic horror. You will
notice that the eyes and mouth of the fetus al-e sewn
shut, the hand are held behind the back. It is nongender specific so one does not know if it is male or
female. It is about to be born HIV positive and he/
she did not choose to do so, nor does he/she know
what to expect. Perhaps the greatest tragedy is that
this could have been prevented.
30,800,000 (The Cross)
As of February 1998, 30,800,000 + people were )-eported to be HIV positive. The number of rising new
HIV infections each year is staggering. The HIV/
AIDS pandemic crisis is not just a government problem - it is a people problem. The vast majority of
people on our planet practice and adhere to some
kind of faith and/or religion. HIV/AIDS is a terribly lonely and isolating disease. This painting is a
theological depiction of sin and disease being vanquished once and for all at the cross. Whether we
are persons living with HIV or are those seeking to
understand and reach oul to those infected and/or
affected by this disease, we need to I-each out in compassion. This painting is a challenge to all, especially
the churches, to reach out with love. As the Scrip-
ture says: "Without hope people perish" and "Love
never fails." Responses of compassion, care and concern will help to fight the war against AIDS. Love is
the key.
FOR MORE INFORMATION HIV/ AIDS ART AWARE ESS PROJECT '98 PO Box 172, Cranbrook, B.C.
Canada VIC 4H7 • Telephone: (250) 489-0734 or (250) 426-5417 or (250) 417-7381 • Fax: (250) 426-1940
Email: dfletcher@Cyberlink.bc.ca.Website:http/lheagy.com/aids-art/
JUNE / JULY 1998
•
BCPWA NEWS
13
Sharing our
HELP US RUN THE WALK
VOLUNTEER AS A TEAM
CAPTAIN FOR AIDS WALK '98!
Hospitality Tent
You will have hospitality industry experience to enable you to oversee greeting, catering and overall comfort requirements to
our VI Ps who have been invited to the Hospitality Tent.
Logistics
The Logistics Team Captain must possess
excellent organizational skills plus the experience and ability to handle details in a
timely and calm manner. This is a very responsible individual who will oversee the
following volunteers: Site Manager, Set Up,
Tear Down.
Security
The Team Captain responsible for this area
will be an organized, sensitive person who
is able to manage a large number of volunteers to enable a smooth and safe day of
the event. This person will have the responsibility for the following volunteer areas:
Route Marshall, Parking, Overnight, Registration Security, Site Security, and Stage
& Hospitality Security.
Volunteer Party
The volunteers are the backbone of this
event and the volunteer party the evening
of the event is an important way to say
thanks. This individual will work with a team
to obtain a site, catering and prizes for the
volunteers and make sure the party runs
smooth Iy and safely.
Waste Management
We value our relationship with the Vancouver Parks Board and need a person responsible for overall cleanliness and the maintenance of the grounds and routes that we
are permitted to use. This person should
have some experience dealing with waste
management and volunteers.
Volunteering
opportunities
at BCPWA
Develop your skills in recruiting, interviewing
and placing volunteers. If you have interpersonal and organizational skills, you could make
a valuable contribution to BC PWA. Must be
available at least 5 daytime hours per week.
The BCPWA Webteam
Technical position. You must have a good
knowledge of web-page construction and html
coding. Experience with Microsoft Front - page
preferred. Team members must be dedicated
and commit to strict deadlines.
Human Resources
Administrators
Working at the Human Resources counter requires interpersonal and problem solving skills.
Some filing and data entry. Familiarity with
Microsoft Access is an asset. Requirement of
4 hours per week.
Arts Administrator
This exciting position needs someone who has
both theater and administrative experience.
BCPWA's Theater Positive requires their Arts
Administrator to oversee their Fringe Festival
performance.
Treatment Information
Program News,
Managing Editor
Must have experience with newsletter production including editing, proofreading, and computer skills. This person will ensure a professional and timely product.
Support Office Staff
You are friendly and enjoy meeting people from
all walks of life. This is an office administration position where you will use your basic computer and telephone skills.
Call the AIDS Walk '98 hot line at 8932250 and leave a clear message stating
your name, address, city, postal code, phone
number and that you are calling for a volunteer application form. We will forward
one to you as soon as possible. Please
clearly mark which Team Captain job you
are applying for on the application.
JUNE / JUL Y 1998
•
You will be responsible for developing new locations for BC PWA News distribution as well
as timely delivery to existing locations. Must
be reliable, self motivated and able to perform
the physical aspects of the position.
Volunteer Coordinators
How to Volunteer as an
AIDS Walk '98 Team Captain.
14
BCPWA Newsletter
Hand Delivery
BCPWA NEWS
Water Project
We need someone with good interpersonal skills
to process applications for BC PWA's bottled
water program.
Hairdressers
Hairdressers are needed to provide this valuable service to our diverse membership. You
must be certified and be available a minimum
of 4 hours per month.
Mailroom & Photocopy
Operator
This reliable person is willing to learn the skills
neces~ary to perform this job, has legible writing and works well with others. Responsible for
filling photocopy requests and postage for a
busy office.
Advocacy File Clerk
You will create and maintain a filing system
for the Advocacy Department. You must have
the ability to handle highly confidential material in a professional manner.
Library Project
To work closely with the Executive Assistant
to sort. catalogue and compile archival information. A person who is pursuing a library sciences or related degree would be an ideal candidate.
Administrative Assistant
for the Executive Office
A detail oriented person with solid computer
skills who enjoys writing correspondence, word
processing reports and documents is required.
This work requires utmost confidentiality, discretion and diplomacy.
KViK RECIPES.
BVKASANDRA
Jumbo Oatmeal Date
Sandwich Cpokies
2/3
c. butter, softened
1 c. packed brown sugar
1 egg
1 T. vanilla
1 c. rolled oats
1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
each baking powder
and baking soda
71 Xalinr :Jlelreal
will be held at Loon Lake, July 27,28, and 29, returning on
July 30. Healing workshops. canoeing, nature walks and
bodywork sessions ",:,ill be facilitated by caring professionals,
well trained in their field. who are supporters of BCPWA.
1/2 1.
1/4
t. salt
2 c. pitted dates
1 1. grated orange rind
2/3
c. orange juice
In large bowl, beat butter with
sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in
egg and vanilla. In separate bowl,
combine oats, flour, baking powder
and salt; gradually stir into butter
mixture until blended. Cover with
plastic wrap and refrigerate for at
least 30 minutes or for up to 1
day.
Meanwhile, chop dates. In small
heavy saucepan over medium heat,
bring dates, rind, juice and 1/3 c.
water to boil, stirring often;
reduce heat to low, cover and
simme~ stirring occasionally, for
about 45 minutes or until dates
are very soft. Uncover and cook,
stirring constantly, for 5 minutes
or until mixture forms thick, stick
paste. Let cool completely.
Using hands, roll heaping
tablespoonsful of dough into 24
balls. Place about 2 inches apart
on greased baking sheets. Bake in
centre of 350F over for 12 to 15
minutes or until golden, edge is
crispy and centre is still soft.
Transfer cookies immediately to
rack. Let cool completely.
Join us for nutritious food, social times around the campfire,
and lots of TLC. We encourage people to bl-ing musical
instruments. poetry. their juggling equipment, etc. for the funfilled No Talent Night. Sign up at the Information Desk.(604)
681-2122. extension 323.
You will be contacted for an interview with the Retreat Team.
Selection of participants will be made on a successful interview and lottery. Full members residing anywhere in B.C.
may apply. Retreats are brought to you by the Support
Department. Contact them at (604) 893-2245 if you need
further details.
WOMEN
LIVING
WITH
HIV
I am a UBC School of Nursing doctoral candidate with nearly
20 years nursing experience, and am currently studying the
reproductive decision-making of women living with HIV. To
date, all of the 20 women and the six primary-support
persons - boyfriends, common-law partners or husbands
identified by the women - have appreciated being able to
share their stories without being judged.
To ensure that the research represents the diversity of
women living with HIV and their reproductive decisionmaking, I am seeking women from 20 to 40 years old in the
Vancouver area. There are other criteria you need to meet to
participate in this study that I can explain to you.
I need your help in completing two or three interviews. In
recognition of your participation, I will give you $15 following the completion of each interview. Confidentiality is
guaranteed.
Your participation will contribute significantly to the
Spread date puree evenly over
smooth side of 12 of the cookies;
sandwich with remaining cookies,
smooth side down. Makes 12
large cookies.
creation of policies and services that recognize the unique
childbearing issues of women living with HIV.
CONTACT Amandah Lea
amandah@interchange.ubc.ca
Or call: (604) 222-1013 and leave a message
JUNE / JULY 7998
•
BCPWA NEWS
15
It is the mission of the Positively Happening section of BC PWA NEWS to provide a
YOUR GUIDE
TO JUST ABOUT
EVERYTHING
complete and comprehensive listing of groups, societies, programs and institutions in
British Columbia that serve persons touched by HIV disease and AIDS.
To this end, if anyone knows of any B.C.-based organization that is not currently listed in
these pages, please contact us so that we can include them. Our deadline for the next
issue is July 6. Although we strive to have correct, up-to-date listings, it is not always
possible.
who to call
vancouver
Pacific AIDS Resource Centre
(604)-681-2122 OR 1-800-994-2437
PARC Partners
AIDS Vancouver *
BC Persons With AI DS Society
Positive Women's Network
Wings Housing Society
Fax:893-2251
* AN Fax 893-2211
Help Lines and Information Services
AIDS Vancouver
Help Line 687-2437
TTY/TDD Help Line 893-2215
Spanish Helpline 893-2281
AIDS Vancouver Island Help Line
toll free 1-800-665-2437
B. C. AIDS line:
Vancouver 872-6652
or 1-800-972-2437
Clinical Trials Information 631-5327
or 1-800-661-4664
Ministry of Health Information
1-800-665-4347
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Clinic 660-6161
St. Paul's Hospital:
Infectious Disease Clinic 631-5060
Patient Information 631-5011
Social Work Dept. 631-5068
AIDS VANCOUVER GROCERY: Free for
PWAIH IV+'s living in the greater Vancouver
region, conditionally, according to income. Tuesday & Wednesday, 11:30 to 2:30. Call AIDS
Vancouver Support Services at 681-2122 ext.
270.
A LOVING SPOONFUL: Delivers free nutritious meals to Persons diagnosed HI V+/AI OS,
who because of medical reasons require our
assistance. Call 682-Meal (6325) for further
information. #100 -1300 Richards Street, Vancouver, B. C., V6B 3G6. Phone: 682-6325. Fax:
682-6327.
BC PWA'S WATER PROG RAM :This program
offers purified water at a discounted rate to
members. For further information phone 6812122 ext. 326.
DROP-IN LUNCH FOR POSITIVE WOMEN:
In the Positive Women's Network kitchen. Call
Bronwyn for more information or to become a
PWN member at 681-2122 ext. 276.
LOW COST MEALS: St. Paul's Hospital isoffering healthy meals to those on reduced incomes. The program operates from the Crest
Club Cafeteria at St. Paul's, 1081 Burrard
Street. Call 682-2344 for more information.
THE LUNCH CLUB: From 11:30 a.m. to 1
p.m. On Wednesdays at MARS, 1320 Richards
Street, and other weekdays at the Sandwich
Club in Blood Alley. For infot'mation call: 8993663.
..
. . ....
VANCOUVER NATIVE HEALTH SOCIETY
HIV OUTREACH FOOD BANI<: Tuesdays
1:00 - 3:00 p.m. except cheque issue week.
441 East Hastings Street. For more information call 604-254-9937.
VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION LUNCHES:
Supplied at Human Resources office for all
volunteers working two and a half hours that
day on approved projects.
HEALTH
BUTE STREET CLINIC: Help with sexually
transmitted diseases and HI V issues. Monday
to Friday, Noon to 6:30. At the Gay and Lesbian Centre,1l70 Bute Street. Call 660-7949.
COMPLEMENTARY HEALTH FUND (CHF):
For full members entitled to benefits only. Call
the CHF ProjectTeam at 681-2122 ext. 245
for eligibility, policies, procedures, etc.
DEYAS, NEEDLE EXCHANGE: (Downtown
Eastside Youth Activities Society). 223 Main
Street, Vancouver, B. C., V6A 2S7. Phone: 6856561. Fax:: 685-7117
DOWNTOWN SOUTH COMMUNITY
HEALTH CENTRE: Provides free and confidential set'vices; medical, nursing, youth clinic,
alcohol and drug counselling, community counselling and a variety of complementary health
programs. 1065 Seymour Street. Phone: 6062640.
GASTOWN MEDICAL CLINIC: specializing
in treatment of Addiction and HIV. BCPWA
Peet' Counsellor on duty from 1:30 to 4 p.m.
every day except Thursday. Thursday is Tt'eatment information day. Located at 30 Blood
Alley Squat'e. Phone: 669-9181.
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT LOAN PROGRAM:
Is a service for clients of AIDS Vancouver who
requit'e Medical equipment and health CMe
products which might not otherwise be avail-
able to them. To make a loan from the program call AIDS Vancouver Support Services
at 681-2122 ext. 270.
OAKTREE CtINIC:'Provides care at a single
site to HIV infected women, children, and youth.
For information and referrals call 875-2212
or fax: 875-3063.
PINE FREE CLINIC: Provides free and confidential medical care for youth and anyone
without medical insurance. HIV/STD testing
available. 1985 West 4th Avenue, Vancouver,
BC VOJ IM7. Phone: 736-2391.
PWA RETREATS: For BCPWA members to
'get away from it all' for contemplation, healing and recreation. Please call the Information Centre at 681-2122 ext. 323 for more
information. If out of town, reach us at 1-800994-2137 ext 323.
REIKI SUPPORT GROUP: Farren Gillaspie,
a Reiki Master, offers a small support group
for people who wish to be initiated into I.evel 1
Reiki. No charges for joining. Costs involve your
portion of shared food supplies. Contact Farren
at 1-604-990-9685. Complementary Health
Fund subsidies available.
TRADITIONAL CH I NESE ACU PUNCTURE:
Dr. Sunny Lee, professional service. Reduced
rates in effect: regular $38 plus GST. Only $15
for BCPWAs. Call Tom at 681-2122 ext. 206.
BCPWATREATMENT INFORMATION PROGRAM: Supports people living with HIV/AI DS
in making informed decisions about their health
and their health care options. Drop by or give
us a call at 681-2122 Ext. 243, 1107 Seymour
Street.
VANCOUVER NATIVE HEALTH SOCIETY:
Medical outreach program and health care
worker program. For more information call
254-9937. New address is 441 Hastings
Street, Vancouver. Office hours are from 8:30
a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.
HOUSING
WINGS HOUSING SOCIETY: (Vancouver)
Administers portable rental housing subsidies
for HIV+ people. Waiting list at this time. Pick
up applications at 1107 Seymour Street, in
PARC reception (downstairs). Leave message
at 681-2122 ext. 274. Fax: 893-2251. 1107
Seymour Street, Vancouver, B. C., V6B 5S8.
VANCOUVER NATIVE HEALTH SOCIETY
HOUSING SUBSIDY PROGRAM: Administers
portable housing subsidies for HIV+ people.
Waiting list at this time. Call 254-9937 for
information.
LEGAL &
RESOURCES
FINANCIAL
BCPWA INDIVIDUAL ADVOCACY: Providifjg assistance to our members in dealing with
issues as varied as landlord and tenant disputes, to appealing tribunal decisions involving government ministries. For information call
681-2122 and ask for BCPWA Advocacy.Information Line(recorded message): 878-8705
FREE LEGAL ADVICE: Law students under
the supervision of a practicing lawyer will draft
wills, living wills and health care directives and
assist in landlord/tenant disputes, small claims,
criminal matters and general legal advice Call
BCPWA Information Centre at 681-2122 ext.
323.
FOUR CORNERS COMMUNITY SAVINGS:
Financial services with No Service Charges
to low-income individuals. Savings accounts,
picture identification, cheques, money orders
and direct deposit are free ..Monday to Friday
9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 309 Main Street (at
Hastings>. Call 606-0133.
CARE TEAM PROGRAM: Small teams of
trained volunteers can supplement the services of professional home care or friends &
family for people experiencing HIV/AIDS related illnesses. Please call AI DS Vancouver
Support Services at 681-2122 ext. 270 for
more information.
HIGH RISK PROJECT: Peer and direct support and services to the transgendered. 449
East Hastings Street - enter via back alley.
For more information, please call 255-6143.
PET CARE
BOSLEY'S PET FOOD MART: 1630 Davie
Street. Call 688-4233 and they will provide
free delivery of pet food to BC PWAs.
PET PAL PROGRAM: Volunteers are available to help people living with HIV/AI DS care
for their pets when, due to illness, they are
unable to provide it themselves. Contact Al DS
Vancouver Support Services: 681-2122 ext.
270.
FREE
PACIFIC AIDS RESOURCE CENTRE L!BRARY:The PARC Library is located at 1107
Seymour St. (main floor). The Library is a
community-based, publicly accessible, specialized collection of information on HIV and
AIDS. Library Hours are Monday to Friday,
9 to 5. Telephone: 893-2294 for more information. I nformation can be sent to people
throughout BC.
SERVICES
COMPLIMENTARYTICI<ET PROGRAM:To
participate you must complete an application
form and be accessible by phone. For information call BC PWA Support Services at 6812122, ext. 213, or toll free: 1-800-994-2437.
HAIR STYLING: Professional hairdressers
are available by appointment. Please call the
Information Centre at 681-2122 ext. 295.
POLL! AND ESTHER'S CLOSET: Free to
HIV+ individuals who are members of PWA.
Open Tuesday and Wednesday from 11:30 to
2:30 (except last Wednesday of month>' 1107
Seymour Street. People wishing to donate are
encouraged to drop off items on Thursdays.
XTRA WEST: offers free listing space (up to
50 words) in its "PROUD LIVES" Section.
This can also be used for "In Memoriam" notices. I f a photo is to be used there is a charge
of $20.00. For more information call Michelle
at XT RA West at 684-9696.
HIV-T SUPPORT GROUP: (affiliated with
the Canadian Hemophilia Society>. Our group
is open for anyone either hemophiliac or blood
transfused and living with HIV/AIDS. Should
you need more information, please call
Doreen: (604) 929-3862 or Clare or Robert:
1-800-668-2686.
HOME AND HOSPITAL VISITATION PROGRAM: People living with HIV/AI DS who are
in hospital or have recently been released can
request visits or phone contact from trained,
caring volunteer visitors. Call AI DS Vancouver Support Services at 681-2122 ext. 270.
MASK TH ERAPY: Explore your creativity
through Mask-making, color, sound and movement. Drop-in sessions every Friday 1 to 4 p.m.
St. John's church. 1401 Comox Street. All
welcome, no experience or registration necessary.
P.O.P. PRISON OUTREACH PROGRAM: is
dedicated to providing ongoing support for
HIV+ inmates and to meeting the needs of
our members in the correctional system. Direct Line Phone Number for Inmates with
H IV/AI DS. 604-527-8605. Wednesday
through Sundays from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Collect calls will be accepted and forwarded, in
confidence, to the POP/Peer Counsellor on
shift. For more information call the Prison
Liaison voice mail at 681-2122 ext. 204.
JUNE I JULY 1998
•
BCPWA NEWS
17
vancouver
support groups
PEER AND SUPPORT COUNSELLING:
BC PWA Peer and Support Counsellors are
available Monday to Friday from 10 to 4 in
the support office. Counsellors see people on
a drop-in or appointment basis. Call 681-2122
ext. 234 or come by 1107 Seymour Street.
Monday
HIV/AIDS SU PPORT GROU P: NewWestminster - For those affected by HIV/AIDS. 7:30
p.m. St. Barnabas Community Hall, 1002 - 5th
Avenue, New Westminster. For information call
Joanne I<eelan at 526-2030.
PINI< SH EEP: Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual support group for Adult Children of Alcoholics and
Dysfunctional Families. 7 p.m., Gordon
Neighborhood house, room 5, 1019 Broughton
Street. For information call 681-9180.
Tuesday
GRIEF GROUP: For people who have lost
someone to AIDS. 3 to 4 p.m. At St. Paul's
Hospital, Ward 8D, room 8043 For information call Judy I<rueckl at 631-5072 or Harvey
Bosma at 631-5223
PARTNERS SUPPORT GROUP: 4 to 5 p.m.
St. Paul's Hospital Ward 8D, room 8043. For
information call Judy I<rueckl at 631-5072 or
Harvey Bosma at 631-5223.
RICHMOND HIV/AIDS SUPPORT GROUP:
For those affected by HIV/AIDS. 7 to 9 p.m.
at Richmond Youth Service Agency, 8191 St.
Alban's Road. For information call John at
274-8122 or Joanna at 275-9564.
PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING AND
TH ERA PY PROG RAM: Professional counsellors and therapists are available to provide ongoing therapy to people with HIV/AJDS. Free
of charge. Please call Aids Vancouver Support Services at 681-2122 ext. 270.
B. C. NATIVE AIDS AWARENESS PROGRAM :To help participants explore their lives
and lifestyles in a way that encourages spiritual, mental, emotional and physical health.
655 West 12th Avenue. For information call
Nadine Caplette at 660-2088 or Fax 7750808
PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING PROJECT: Registered Clinical Counsellors and Social Workers provide free and confidential one
hour counselling sessions to clients by appointment. Call 684-6869, Gay and Lesbian Centre, 1170 Bute Street
CANADIAN HEMOPHILIA SOCIETY - B.C.
CHAPTER: Many services for Hemophiliac or
Blood Transfused HIV+ individuals. HIV-T
Support Group. Address: 150 Glacier Street.
Coquitlam, B. C. V31< 5Z6. Voice mail at 6888186.
THEATRE ARTS PROGRAM: Join a group
of people living with HIV/AIDS interested in
exploring various aspects of theatre arts. No
experience necessary; only an interest in having fun and developing skills. For information
call Jake at: 450-0307 (pager)
F RlEN DS FO R LI F E SOC] ETY: offers services to people with life threatening illnesses
and support their families, friends and
caregivers. Call us at 682-5992 or drop by
1459 Barclay Street for more information.
YOUTHCO'S POSITIVE-YOUTH OUTREAC H PROG RAM: A first step and ongoing
support program for HI V+ youth (ages 1529) by HIV+ youth. Provides: support, education, retreats, social opportunities, referrals,
and skills-building opportunities. Confidential
pager: 650-2649. Office: 688-1441.
Wednesday
BODY POSITIVE SUPPORT GROUP: Open
to all persons with HIV/AIDS. 7:30 to 9:30
p.m. 1107 Seymour Street (upstairs). Informal, confidential and self-facilitated. For information call 681-2122 ext. 323.
HIV/AIDS SU PPORT GROU P: For people living in the Downtown Eastside area. 4 to 6 p.m.
441 East Hastings street. For Information call
Gilbert at 685-6561.
FAMILY, FRIENDS AND CAREGIVERS
SUPPORT GROUP: 1 to 2 p.m. St. Paul's
Hospital, Ward 8D, room 8043. For information call Judy I<rueckl at 631-5072 or Harvey
Bosma at 631-5223.
TIME OUT FOR ART: 2 to 4 p.m. in the
BCPWA lounge. Explore and unleash your
creative potential. All supplies provided. No
experience necessary. Not a therapy group.
continued on next page
AIDS AND DISABILITY ACTION PROGRAM AND RESOURCE CENTRE:. Provides
and produces educational workshops and materials for disabled persons. B. C. Coalition of
People with Disabilities. #204 - 456 West
Broadway, Vancouver, B. C., V5Y 1 R3. Phone:
875-0188. Fax: 875-9227. TDD: 875-8835.
E-mail: bccpd@istar.ca
AIDS CONSULTATION AND EDUCATION
SERVICES: 219 Main Street, Vancouver, B.
C., V6A 2S7. Phone: 669-2205
AIDS VANCOUVER: PARC, 1107 Seymour
Street, Vancouver, B. C., V6B 5S8. Phone: 6812122. Fax: 893-2211.
ASIAN SOCIETY FOR THE INTERVENTION OF AIDS (ASIA): Suite 507-1033
Davie Street, Vancouver, B. C., V6E IM7.
Phone: 604-669-5567. Fax: 604-669-7756.
ATISH NETWORI< SOCIETY: South Asian
and Iranian HIV/AIDS Project. Bilingual and
bicultural counselling services, public education and health promotion. Box 107 - 680 East
Broadway, Vancouver, B. C., V5T 1 X7. Phone:
604-709-0411.
18
JUNE / JULY 1998
•
B. C. CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE IN HIV/
AIDS: 608 - 1081 Burrard Street (at St.
Paul's Hospital), Vancouver, B. C., V6Z 1Y6.
Phone: 604-631-5515. Fax: 631-5464.
Internet address: http://cfeweb.hivnet.ubc.ca/
BCPWA NEWS
HEALING OUR SPIRIT B.C. FIRST NATIONS AIDS SOCIETY: Service & support
for First Nations, Inuit & Metis people living
with HIV/AIDS. 319 Seymour Boulevard,
North Vancouver. Mailing address: 415 B West
Esplanade, North Vancouver, B. C., V7 M lA6.
Phone: 604-983-8774. Fax: 604-983-2667.
Outreach office at #212 - 96 East Broadway,
Vancouver, B. C. V5T 4N9. Phone: 604-8798884. Fax: 604-879-9926.
HUMMINGBIRD I<IDS SOCIETY: For HIV/
AIDS Infected/Affected children and their
families in the Lower Mainland of B.C. P.O.
Box 54024, Pacific Centre N. Pstl Outlet, 701
Granville Street, Vancouver, B.C. V7Y IBO
Phone: 604-515-6086 Fax: 250-762-3592
E-mail: hummingbirdkids@bc.sympatico.ca
LIVING THROUGH LOSS SOCIETY: Provides professional grief counselling to people
who have experienced a traumatic loss. 101395 West Broadway, Vancouver, B. C., V5Y
lA7. Phone: 873-5013. Fax: 873-5002.
LOWER MAINLAND PURPOSE SOCIETY:
Health and Resource Centre and Youth Clinic.
40 Begbie Street, New Westminster, BC
Phone: 526-2522. Fax: 526-6546
MCLAREN HOUSING SOCIETY: Provides
affordable housing to men, women and couples who: live with HI V and AIDS; are able to
live independently, and who are in financial
need. #200 - 649 Helmcken Street, Vancouver, B. C., V6B 5R1. Phone: 669-4090. Fax:
669-4090.
MULTIPLE DIAGNOSIS COMMITTEE:c/o
Department of Psychiatry, St. Paul's Hospital, 1081 Burrard Street, Vancouver, B. C., V6Z
1Y6. Phone: 682-2344 Ext. 2454.
continued fro'm previous page
Thursday
CMV (CYTOMEGALOVIRUS) SU PPORT
GROU P: 11 a.m. to noon. St. Paul's Hospital, Eye Clinic lounge. For information call
682-2344.
HIV/AIDS MEETING: Open to anyone. 6
to 8 p.m. Pottery Room, Carnegie Centre
Basement. For Information call 665-2220.
"NEW HOPE" NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS
MEETING: All welcome! Drop-in 12-step
program. 8:30 to 10:00 p.m. 1107 Seymour
St. Call BCPWA at 681-2122 for information. NA 24-hour help line: 873-1018.
PARTNERS, FAMILY AND FRIENDS:
drop-in group. Pacific AIDS Resource Centre. Contact Support Services at 681-2J.22
ext. 270.
PICI<ING UP THE PIECES: For HIV+
Persons. 2:30 to 4 p.m. St. Paul's Hospital,
Ward 8D, room 8043. For information call
Judy Krueckl at 631-5072 or Harvey Bosma
at 631-5223.
Saturday
Keep Coming Back Narcotics Anonymous:
All welcome! 12-step program. 7:30 to 9:30
p.m.Gay and Lesbian Community Centre,
room 1-G, 1170 Bute S.treet, Vancouver.
surrey
support groups
Monday
SUPPORT GROUP: for HIV Positive persons. 7 to 9 p.m. White Rock/South Surrey
area. For information call Terri Rypkema
at531-6226
Wednesday
HIV SUPPORT GROUP: For persons with
HIV/AIDS.3 p.m. Facilitator: Alice Starr.
Location: Fraser House, 33063 4th Avenue,
Mission. For more information call 8266810.
THE NAMES PROJECT (AIDS MEMORIAL
QUI LT): Is made of panels designed by friends
and loved ones for those who have passed on
due to AI DS. 5561 Bruce Street, Vancouver,
B. C., V5P 3M4. Phone: 604-322-2156. Fax:
604-879-8884.
PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE SOCIETY (PI D): Pelvic inflammatory disease is an
infection of a woman's reproductive organs.
The PI D Society provides free telephone and
written information: 604-684-5704 or PID
Society, PO Box 33804, Station D, Vancouver
BC. V6J 4L6.
PFAME GAY AND LESBIAN CENTRE:
1170 Bute Street, Vancouver, B. C., V6E lZ6.
Phone: 684-5307.
POSITIVE WOM EN'S NETWORK: Provides
support and advocacy for women living with
HIV/AIDS. Main floor, 1170 Seymour Street,
Vancouver, B. C., V6B 5S8. Phone: 681-2122
ext. 200. Fax 893-2211.
SOCIETY FOR THERAPUETIC ALTERNATIVES USING NATURAL CHINESE
HERBS (S.T.A.U.N.C.H.l: AIDS TREATMENT /COMMUNITY SERVICE PROJECT.
Immune support/anti-viral herbal-extract
medications, electric (needle-free) acupuncture, energy work. Addictions Treated. Clinic:
535 West lOth Avenue. Phone: 872-3789 or
cell 551-0896.
surrey and the
fraser valley
HEALTH
STREET HEALTH OUTREACH PROGRAM:
Provides free general health services including testing and counselling for sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy, hepatitis and HI V/
AIDS and an on-site needle exchange. Doctor/
Nurse: 583-5666, Needle Exchange: 5835999. Surrey Family Services Society #100 10664 l35A-Street, Surrey, B. C. V3T 4E2
HIV/AIDS SUPPORT GROUP: Just started
in Chilliwack for people from Hope to
Abbotsford. Small, intimate group of HIV positive people or people affected by HIV/AIDS.
For Information call Jim at 793-0730.
SURREY HIV/AIDS SUPPORT NETWORK:
for people living with HIV/AIDS, providing
support, advocacy, counselling, education and
referrals. Support group meets regularly. For
more information call 589-8678
STOREFRONT ORIENTATION SERVICES
LATIN AMERiCAN AIDS PROJECT (SOS):
360 Jackson Avenue, Vancouver, B. C., V6A
3B4. Phone: 255-7273. Fax 255-7293.
URBAN REPRESENTATIVE BODY OF
ABORIGINAL NATIONS SOCIETY: #20996 East Broadway, Vancouver, B. C., V5T 1V6.
Phone: 873-4283. Fax: 873-2785.
VANCOUVER NATIVE HEALTH SOCIETY
HIV/AIDS OUTREACH PROGRAM: Full
range of HIV/AIDS services, weekly food bank,
and several support groups. 441 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, B. C., V6A 1 P5. Phone:
254-9937. Fax: 254-9948.
WORLD AIDS GROUP OF B.C: #4 - 1086
West lOth Avenue, Vancouver, B. C., V6H IH8.
Phone: 730-1787. Fax: 730-1787.
YOUTH COMMUNITY OUTREACH AIDS
SOCIETY (YOUTHCO): A youth for youth
member-driven agency, offers prevention education services, outreach, and support. Contact us at 688-1441 Fax: 688-4932, e-mail:
information@youthco.org, ou treach/support
worker confidential pager: 650-2649.
CHILLIWACK CONNECTION - NEEDLE
EXCHANGE PROGRAM: Needle exchange,
HIV/AI DS, STD education, prevention, referrals counselling. #2 - 46010 Princess Avenue,
Chilliwack, B. C., V2P 2A3. Call for storefront
hours: Phone: 795-3757. Fax: 795-8222.
LANGLEY HOSPICE SOCIETY: Offers support to dying and/or bereaved people while also
providing education about death and dying to
the community. For more information please
call (604)-530-1115. Fax: 530-8851.
SURREY FAMILY SERVICES SOCIETY
STREET HEALTH OUTREACH PROGRAM:
Testing and counselling for sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy, hepatitis and HIV/
AIDS. On-site needle exchange. Doctor/Nurse:
583-5666. Needle exchange: 583-5999. #10010664 135A Street, Surrey, B. C., V3T 4E2.
SURREY HIV/AIDS SU PPORT NETWORK:
A network for people living with HIV/AIDS,
providing support, advocacy, counselling, education and referrals. Support group meets
regularly. For more information call 5898678.
JUNE I JULY 1998
•
BCPWA NEWS
19
VALLEY AIDS NETWORI<: c/o Mary Grace
Grant. University College of the Fraser Valley.
33844 King Road,Abbotsford, B.C., V2S 4N2.
Phone: 1-604-853-7441. Fax: 1-604-8538055
vancouver
island
HOUSING
WINGS HOUSING SOCIETY: (Vancouver Island) Leave messages for local WINGS rep
Mike C. at (250) 384-2366 (Victoria) or 1800-665-2437.
AIDS VANCOUVER ISLAND (AVI): Offers a
variety of services for those affected by HIV/
AIDS. Victoria HIV/AIDS Centre partner.
#304 - 733 Johnson Street, Victoria, B. C.,
V8W 3C7. Phone: 1-250-384-2366. Fax: 1250-380-9411
AIDS VANCOUVER ISLAND - NANAIMO:):
Offers a variety of services for those affected
by HIV/AIDS. #201 - 55 Victoria Road,
Nanaimo, B. C., V9R 5N9. Phone: 1-250-7532437. Fax: 1-250-753-4595. Collect calls accepted
CAMPBELL RIVER SUPPORT GROUPS:
Art therapy and yoga/meditation sessions.
Phone: 1-250-335-1171. Collect calls accepted.
COMOX VALLEY SUPPORT GROUP: Comox
Valley. Also see North Island AI DS Coalition.
Phone: 250-338-7400
NANAIMO AND AREA RESOURCE SERVICES FOR FAMILIES: STREET OUTREACH
AND NEEDLE EXCHANGE: 2-41 Commercial Street, Nanaimo, B. C., V9R 5G3. Phone:
1-250-754-2773. Fax: 1-250-754-1605
MID ISLAND AIDS SOCIETY: For PWA/
H IVs, partners, family, friends, and the community. Education, resource materials, &
monthly newsletter available. Bi-weekly support group. Call 1-250-248-1171. P. O. Box
686, Parksville, B. C., V9P 2G7
MOUNTWADDINGTON HARM REDUCTION
PROGRAM: Health care information and needle exchange. For times and locationscall 250949-0432.
NORTH ISLAND AIDS COALITION, COMOX
VALLEY (NIAC): Provides education, resource
library, newsletter, weekly support group, and
individual counselling. We accept collect calls.
#205 - 576 England Avenue, Courtenay, B. C.,
20
J U N E / J U LY 7998
•
V9N 5M7. Phone/Fax: (250)-338-7400.
E-mail: niacl@mars.ark.com.
NORTH tSLAND AIDS COALITION,
CAMPBELL RIVER (NIAC): For PWAIHIV,
partners, families, friends and the community.
Also needle exchange. 1195 A Elm Street,
Campbell River, B. C., V9W 3A3. Phone: 250286-9757. Fax: 250-830-0787.
PORT ALBERNI SUPPORT TEAM ASSOCIATION (PASTA) ON HIV/AIDS: Support,
education and information in the Port Alberni
Mea. Phone: 1-250-723-2437. P. O. Box 66,
Port Alberni, B. C., V9Y 7M6.
RIGHT TO DIE SOCIETY OF CANADA:
Information on voluntary euthanasia and suicide counselling. P. O. Box 39018, Victoria, B.
C., V8V 4X8. Phone: 1-250-380-1112 or Fax
1-250-386- 3800.email: rights@islandnet.com.
DeathN ET Website: http://www.islandnet.com/
-death net.
VICTORIA AIDS RESPITE CARE SOCIETY:
Victoria HIV/AIDS Centre partner. #304 -733
Johnson Street, Victoria, B. C., V8W 3C7.
Phone: 1-250-388-6220. Fax: 1-250-3880711. E-mail: varcs@islandnet.com. Website:
http://www.island net. c 0 m/ - va rcs/
homepage.htm.
VICTORIA PERSONS WITH AlDS SOCIETY: Peer support, comprehensive treatment
information, food bank, newsletter. Victoria
HIV/AI DS Centre partner. #304 - 733 Johnson
Street, Victoria, B. C., V8W 3C7. Phone: 250384-2366 or 1-800-665-2437. Fax 250-3855016. E-mail: vpwas@direcLca. Homepage:
http://www.geocities.com/H ot Springs/8 79 2/
index.html.
thompsonokanagan
AIDS RESOURCE CENTRE - OI<ANAGAN
& REG ION: I nformation, peer support, social
group, and ongoing support group. Phone: 1800-616-2437 or Fax: 1-250-868-8662 or
write to #202 - 1626 Richter Street, Kelowna,
B. C., VI Y 2M3. E-mail: kares@silk.net
AIDS SOCIETY OF I<AMLOOPS (ASK): 523
Victoria Street, I<am/oops, B. C., V2C 2B1.
Phone: 1-250-372-7585. Fax: 1-250-3721147
OUTREACH HEALTH SERVICES: Fu/I STD/
HI V testing and counselling; health care, pregnancy, and contraception counselling; needle
exchange. Suite 102, 1610 Bertram Street,
I<elowna, B. C. Phone: 205-868-2230. Fax:
250-868-2841.
Be P WAN EW 5
PENTICTON AIDS SUPPORT GROUP: For
PWAs, family and friends. Contact Sandi
Detjen at 1-250-490-0909 or Dale McKinnon
at 1-250-492-4000.
YOUTH AND FAMILY SERVICES OUTREACH HEALTH AND NEEDLE EXCHANGE: VERNON - NORTH OI<ANAGAN.
Information and support available to individuals affected by HI V and AI DS. 2900 - 32nd
Street, Vernon, B. C., VI T 2L5. Phone: 1-250545-3572. Fax: 1-250-545-1510.
caribou-interior
CARIBOO AIDS INFORMATION AND SUPPORT SOCIETY (CAIS): Williams Lake and
Hundred Mile House area. c/o Cariboo Health
Unit. 3rd Floor - 540 Borland Street, Williams
Lake, B. C., V2G lR8. For information call
Gerry or Bev at 1-250-398-4600
QUESNEL SUPPORT GROUP: For PWA/
H IV and their families. For information call
Jill at 1-250-992-4366
northern Be
AIDS PRINCE GEORGE: Support groups,
education seminars, resource materials. #1 1563 - 2nd Avenue, Prince George, B. C., V2 L
3B8. Phone: 1-250-562-1172. Fax: 1-250562-3317.
DAWSON CREEI< REGIONAL AIDS SOCIETY: P. O. Box 513, Dawson Creek, B. C. VIG
4H4. Phone: 1-250-782-5709.
PRINCE GEORGE NATIVE FRIENDSHIP
CENTRE, NEEDLE EXCHANGE: 144 George
Street, Prince George, B. C., V2M 4N7. Phone:
1-250-564-3568. Fax: 1-250-563-0924.
PRINCE GEORGE: NORTHERN INTERIOR
HEALTH UNIT: STD clinic; HIV testing (pre
and post counselling), and follow-up program.
1444 Edmonton Street, Prince George, BC.
V2M 6W5. Phone: 250-565-7311. Fax: 250565-6674.
~
Y
kootenays
CRANBROOKAIDS SOCIETY: Provides support, education and library. Contact Evelyne
at: Suite #104, 32 - 9th Avenue South,
Cranbrook, BC. VIC 2L8. Phone: 250-4894995. Toll Free: 1-888-592-2437. Fax: 250489-4463. E-mail: ckas@cyberlink.bc.ca
GRAND FORKS MASSAGETHERAPY: Registered Massage Therapist. 125 Market Avenue,
Grand Forks. 1-250-442-3125.
WEST KOOTENAY/BOUNDARY AIDS NETWORK OUTREACH SOCIETY (ANKORS):
Office at 101 Baker Street Street, Nelson, B.
C., VlL 4Hl. Phone: 250-505-5506 or 250505-5509 orTol1 free: 1-800-421-2437. Fax:
250-505-5507.
north coast
5C~ENCE
WORLD
Admission to Science World has
been offered at a discounted
rate with the presentation of
your BCPWA membership card.
For more information call
Science World at
(604)443-7440.
"l:
r:.:r :.l
'"l't
continued from page 6
~'r
Between 1992 and 1997, only one or
two cases of the disease were reported
each month. In response to the
outbreak, health officials are warning
customers of Vancouver sex workers to
see their phy icians for testing.
Prostitutes in the region have been
linked to the outbreak; however, the
disease has also spread to the partners
of those who use prostitutes. Dr. David
Patrick, associate director of the B.C.
Centre for Disease Control, said that
"syphilis is a very rare infection in
Canada." He noted that the disease is
curable with a shot of penicillin and
does not show resistance, but can have
dangerous effects if it goes untreated.
Area physicians have been alerted to
help identify and treat the disease.
impairments in immune fu nction.
Underdiagnosis is also a pr oblem, Drs.
Zelenetz and Epstein obser ve, and
many older HIV-positive ind ividuals
do not receive treatment. In addition,
many older AIDS patients" ...are less
likely to practice safe sex." ,'Physicians
need to be aware that the e lderlyare
at risk for HIV, and presentation may
be clinically indistinguishable from
other diseases commonly associated
with the elderly population," the
Manhasset team concludes. In addition, they write, issues such as primary
and secondary HIV prevention and
appropri<J,te pharmacotherapy for
these individuals need to be addressed.
Failure of cytarabine in
progressive multifocal
leukoencephalopathy
associated with HIV infection
From Toronto Globe and Mail
HIVIAIDS in the
elderly on the rise
AIDS PRINCE RUPERT SOCIETY: Provides
support, group meetings, needle exchange, HI V
testing (including pre/post counselling), and
education. Please contact Ramona at 1-250627-8823 or by fax at 1-250-624-4329.
( • .,.t:
WESTPORT, Apr 28 (Reuters)
The elderly make up a substantial
proportion of HIV infections in the
US, according to New York-based
researchers. And this number is
growing, they report in the April issue
of AIDS Patient Care and STDs.
"Conu-ary to the perceptions of some
within the healthcare community and
the general population, the elderly
are at risk for HIV infection and carry
a high mortality if diagnosed," Drs.
Paul D. Zelenetz and Marcia E.
Epstein of North Shore University
Hospital in Manhasset explain. More
than 10% of all AIDS cases in the US
are currently in patients older than 50
years, and the number of infected
individuals in their 60s and 70s is also
increasing, according to the New York
investigators. "A age increases, the
incidence of mortality does as well,"
they add. For example, "... 37% of
individuals 80 years and older have
been reported to die with a month of
diagnosis." Elderly HIV-positive
patients can also present with nonspecific constitutional symptoms, making
diagnosis more difficult. Other
confounding factors include poor
nutrition and normal age-related
Researchers with the AIDS Clinical
Trials Group 243 Team studied 57
patients Witll HIV and progressive
multifocal leukoencephalopathy and
found that cytarabine treatment in
conjunction with antiretroviral
therapy does not improve patient
prognosis. Additionally, high doses of
antiretroviral treatment alone did not
result in improved patient survival as
compared to untreated patients. The
researchers divided the patients into
three subject groups: those receiving
only antiretroviral agen ts, those
receiving antiretroviral agents in
conjunction with intravenous cytarabine, and those receiving
antiretroviral agents and intrathecal
cytarabine. All medication was administered for 24 weeks. Fourteen patien ts
in each group died and only seven
patients completed the therapy. The
researchers note that the study was
conducted before the advent of highly
active antiretroviral therapy, which has
been reported to be u eful in the
treatment of multifocal
leukoencephalopathy.
From ew EnglandJournal of Medicine
(05/07/98) Vol. 338, No. 19, P 1345;
Hall, Colin D.; Dafni, Urania; Simpso,
David; et al.
JUNE / JULY 1998
•
BCPWA NEWS
21
c''".\1,-:
LAST BLAST
RUBEN ACOSTA
The protease side effect no one's talking about
Impossible dream
I've been had. I did what the doctor told me -
took my
drug cocktail as prescribed, on schedule, with plenty of water.
I complied with my strict dosing regiment, laid off recreational
drugs, kept doctor appointments, had blood drawn, no unsafe sex at all, to no
avail. Before taking my cocktail I had a fairly normal life. But the havoc these
drugs are wreaking is too much.
Because I had reservations about starting drug
therapy, I studied all the package inserts, attended
treatment conferences, pored over newsletters, but
nowhere, not even in the fine print, was I warned
that I'd suffer from this.
I'm scared to leave my house.
The other day I was window-shop"The guys in my support
ping in Beverly Hills with my children,
when suddenly a six-footjavegroup who are on the
lin
appeared
in my hand and I was
cocktail flash their bright
poised to fire it down Rodeo Drive.
Colgate smiles, as if in a
The kids took cover. People were
constant photo-op."
terrified - the last thing they want
to see in Beverly Hills is a Mexican
with a sharp object.
But there's more. I was on my way to
church, a little draggy but dressed in my Sunday be t,
when my lover pointed to my shirt and gasped. To
our mutual shock, I was wearing a bright-yellow tank
top, hiking boots and blue stretch pants I wouldn't
be caught dead in. Next thing I know, I'm hanging
off Mount Everest with ropes dangling from my waist,
as my lover calls out from down below, "Honey,
Oprah's on - time to take your cocktail."
And it's notjust me. The guys in my supportgroup
who are on the cocktail flash their bright Colgate
smiles, as if in a constant photo-op. They do group
hugs and high-fives every few minutes. We're like
one big bowling league.
The simplest things go wrong and weird. No more
walks in the park-I just end up being chased by dogs.
A romantic dinner out concludes with food on the
floor because I can't resist flinging my plate like a
Frisbee. I've gone from couch potato to Olympic
gold medallist in two short month -all without the
hassle of joining a gym or the co t of a personal
trainer.
22
J U N E / J U LY 1 998
•
B C PWAN EW 5
Then again, if! were to consider training for the
decathlon, the backpack full of meds would slow me
down. Plus, the last thing I'd want while freestyling
in the Olympic pool is a "protease burst," like the
ones that keep me climbing on and off toilets, not
mountains. And all the hugging and high-fives can
be pretty painful when you've got peripheral neuropathy.
So I guess I'll let all those other miracle models
of medicine show off their energy, athletic prowess
and vibrant smiles. Personally, I'm too pooped.
Reprinted from POZ, May, 1998
ICOMING SOON... I_~ __
Tell us your side
of the story
With the next issue of BCPWA News, you'll
receive a ground breaking new survey that
explores the realities of living with HIV
disease. How we have had to live, survive and
cope in our own communities and societies.
We come from many different communities
and backgrounds. And we know, how we live,
affects our health.
By taking part in this survey, you will give a
bigger snapshot of our lives to decision
makers. 'People who make decisions about our
health care services and social support.
We need your story. Because each story
sheds light on the realities we face each day
living with this disease.
boca dellupo theatre is a non-profit
o~ganization creating innovative, original
works of physical theatre.
e
Our newest
project, entitled
Terminal (formerly
titled West), is an
exploration of
Vancouver's Downtown
East Side - its
community, its people,
and the issues which
perpetually shape the
area. Our goal is to
create a bridge
between the bustling
city centre of the past
and the depressed,
forgotten community it
has become today,
creating a performance
which will be
accessible to all.
July 23 TO August 1
Roundhouse Community Centre
Terminal will be directed by guest-director Ker Wells, formerly of Primus Theatre. Performances are scheduled at
Roundhouse Community Centre between July 23 and August 1, followed by a tour of the Gulf Islands. Terminal will be
produced with the support of the British Columbia Persons with AIDS Society, and partial proceeds from the show will
go to the organization. For more information, please contact boca dellupo at (604)688-8199.
....
•
•
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 27 STANLEY PARK VANCOUVER Be
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