CBC Calgary – ‘I didn’t think I’d be around’: Long-term survivors share stories of aging with HIV

At The SHARP Foundation, we understand the unique challenges faced by long-term HIV survivors as they grow older. For people like Gerry McConnery, who was diagnosed with HIV in 1993, the expectation of only living for a few more years was a harsh reality. Yet, thanks to medical advancements, many HIV-positive individuals are now living well into their 60s and beyond.

However, living longer with HIV presents new obstacles. As survivors age, they face an increased need for healthcare support that takes into account both the impact of years of treatment and the stigma they continue to experience. For instance, McConnery worries about how he will be received in a hospital or long-term care facility. Will his HIV status be accepted, or will it lead to discrimination?

At the Sharp Foundation, we are committed to addressing these concerns. We’re working on a digital storytelling project that highlights the experiences of aging HIV-positive individuals, aiming to educate healthcare providers about their unique needs. This project also underscores the importance of privacy and confidentiality, particularly in care facilities where residents may still fear the social stigma attached to their HIV status.

The LGBTQ2S+ community, which makes up a significant portion of the HIV-positive population in Calgary, is also aging, and it’s crucial that service providers are well-equipped to offer compassionate and informed care. For many survivors, the fear of discrimination can discourage them from disclosing their status. This is where we believe healthcare providers must take action, ensuring staff are trained to handle these sensitive matters and reduce the risk of harmful reactions from other residents.

Our project aims to empower aging HIV survivors, like McConnery, to live freely without the fear of discrimination. It’s time we recognize the ongoing struggles they face, even decades after the AIDS crisis.

To learn more about our ongoing efforts to support aging HIV-positive individuals, visit CBC’s article on the subject and read how the Sharp Foundation is contributing to change.