Randolph This letter has been reproduced verbatim from News24.com. See related link.
Dear Editor,
HIV. It's just a virus. It's not a tsunami.
There are millions of viruses and most can be treated with a simple medical solution. Most viruses can be discussed. HIV does not have a simple solution, but day by day it's becoming more of a life sentence and not the death sentence it was known to be for so long.
Today no one needs to die of AIDS. But we lose 1000 people a day.
Why? Because we don't talk about it. From the President to the Principal, from the mother to the matron, there is a deafening silence. Surely to talk is to know? In spite of all the information about HIV/Aids, the knowledge is restricted to a vague awareness and a certainty that 'it can't happen to me'.
Why can't it? It's just a virus! It doesn't choose race, sex, colour, creed or IQ.
Confronting the fear of HIV/Aids is to be in charge and know what it is and how it happens.
HIV comes when we come. Simple as that. It's about sex. We all do it and won't admit that we do it and like it and do it carelessly. So we lie and so we die.
The minefield of sex is everywhere and attracting young experimenters as we read this. And now that we are in December, holidays, parties, fun, friends, booze and drugs so easily can lead to that 'never-mind' shrug. One mistake and the virus is your Christmas present for life.
The safest sex is no sex, but this is not a musical for nuns. Sex happens. It's nice. So be in charge. Know the dangers and the risks. Play safely. Decide soberly. 'No' is a great weapon of self respect. Keep a fresh condom handy in case the word 'no' is not an option. Enjoy sex with care and respect for yourself and others.
1 December is Aids Day. The other 364 days are just as important. So? If it's not on, it's not in.
Pieter-Dirk Uys,
Darling