World AIDS Day is marked globally on 1 December.
This is a day to raise awareness about HIV. It is a day when we are mindful of our community members living with HIV, of demonstrating our support for them and commemorating those with HIV who have passed away.
Wearing a red ribbon on World AIDS Day is one way to show that you remember and can help to reduce discrimination by demonstrating solidarity with people with HIV.
In 2021 the Australian national theme for World AIDS Day is 40 years of HIV – where to next?
For the bleeding disorders community this is deeply significant. This year it is an opportunity to take stock of the last 40 years and consider the future.
We invite you to visit the 2021 World AIDS Day page on our website. This has reflections from our community about the past and the future, and a short video of the Four Candles poem in tribute to the memory of those we have lost.
Visit the 2021 World AIDS Day Page
HIV IN THE BLEEDING DISORDERS COMMUNITY
Today it can be hard to imagine the devastation for the bleeding disorders community in the mid-1980s, when many people with bleeding disorders in Australia and internationally were diagnosed with AIDS after acquiring HIV through their plasma-derived clotting factor treatment products.
The experience with HIV has had an ongoing impact on our community: the trauma and health challenges for those who live with HIV, and the grief and sadness experienced by those who lost loved ones and friends to HIV. There is also the emotional impact on the health professionals at the Haemophilia Treatment Centres, with their close connection to their patients with HIV over their lifetime.
In Australia HIV infection is now usually well-managed with treatment. Some people with bleeding disorders and HIV are going well, but others have more complex needs. HFA continues to look at ways to address this in our Getting Older project.
Our community members have told us that recognising and hearing their experiences is immensely important. Foundations are committed to acknowledging and supporting community members affected by HIV.
Join us today in supporting our community affected by HIV.
For more information on World AIDS Day, visit www.worldaidsday.org.au.