Lest We Forget

In keeping with my theme for this day annually, we must remember all those infected as well as affected by the AIDS scourge.  I have rambled about this in past posts, but it is always good to remember.  Today I reflect upon what were assumed to be the origins of the scourge and maybe its effect on our noble sport.

Whilst the jury is still out on the origins of this disease, its spread was different in different communities.  Whereas in the United States where it was first discovered it mainly affected gay or homosexual communities, in Africa it was mainly heterosexual persons that were infected.  Though the causes of infection are clearly known, the biggest hurdle now is the stigma associated with the illness.  Due to progress in medication and treatment, people are now living longer and able to lead fully productive lives, even while infected.  That means that we may not know who amongst us is infected and thus have to live with them same as others. I personally do not know of any rugby players who are HIV positive though just the infection rate in the general populace would suggest a few such persons exist.  And with persons keeping this information to themselves, the stigma has now shifted to gay rugby players.  This article says it all.  However, with a most accomplished rugby player having come out to declare himself gay, one would hope that this would all end and we would stop labelling or assuming certain status of people because of their life preferences.  And with the current push by the Western World to accept gay rights as part of our existence, would we be able to live and play with openly confessed gay persons?

Do take time to reflect and let's all try to end the stigma associated with this disease.