When Jonathan Blake received the shocking news that he had HIV over 40 years ago, he was given a mere three to nine months to live. Fast forward to today, and Blake is not just surviving but thriving, a beacon of hope in the ongoing fight against HIV.

A Personal Battle Begins

Diagnosed at just 33 in October 1982 at Middlesex Hospital, Jonathan was among the first patients identified with HIV in the UK, famously known as Patient L1. His journey through the early days of the AIDS epidemic was featured in the 2014 film 'Pride'.

Jonathan recalls, "Every single lymph node in my body had just erupted. I was told I would need palliative care—at 33, that was not something I wanted to hear." He faced his diagnosis with determination, saying, "I've been living with this virus, focusing on enjoying every single day."

The Stigma and Struggles of HIV

HIV silently attacks the immune system, leading to AIDS when the body can no longer fend off infections. Although AIDs doesn’t spread between individuals, the HIV virus does, causing immense stigma and fear.

Blake pointed out, "It wasn’t until 2015, with the campaign 'U = U' (Undetectable = Untransmittable), that the narrative began to change. I stopped being seen as a leper with poisoned blood." This groundbreaking message means that those on effective treatment can no longer transmit HIV sexually.

Awareness is Key

As of 2023, over 107,949 people in the UK received HIV care, a significant 27% rise in a decade. Yet, Jonathan insists that HIV remains a 'forgotten epidemic,' often overshadowed by stigma that discourages discussions about the disease.

He urges everyone to know their HIV status and get tested, emphasizing the importance of medication and awareness—"I’m living proof that treatment works!"

A Memorial for the Lost and Living

Recently, Jonathan attended the launch of a report titled 'Getting to Zero by 2030: HIV in London,' held at the future site of an HIV/AIDS memorial in Fitzrovia. The London mayor and health organizations are committed to halting new HIV infections and eradicating stigmas by 2030.

However, challenges remain; since 2020, HIV cases have been rising again in London, prompting calls for more testing and better access to preventive care.

A Community of Hope

The planned memorial, symbolizing hope and remembrance, will feature a felled tree and aims to honor those lost to the epidemic while fostering a sense of community.

Mzz Kimberley, an ambassador for Aids Memorial UK, shared her vision for the memorial: "It will be a place for reflection, education, and peace." For Jonathan, this memorial signifies more than just remembrance; it's a celebration of resilience. "I am incredibly proud to be part of this HIV community. We’ve lost many friends, and every loss still stings," he said.

Through Jonathan’s journey, we are reminded that while HIV may still be a formidable opponent, the spirit of awareness, treatment, and community can light the way forward.