In this article Epstein touches on various different topics surrounding AIDS, one of which being that there tends to be a social stigma about AIDS. This idea reminded me of Anne Hallward’s Ted Talk on telling our silenced stories in which she explains how telling our stories in which she explains how telling our stories is how we better ourselves and each other. Hallward’s ideas also relate to Epstein’s observation when visiting developing countries that there is little to no education on these types of things. I’m curious to know how so many people can be infected and yet have no knowledge on what they’re infected with and how to prevent it. When people in developing countries aren’t able to communicate with others, they don’t learn or see that there is a way to prevent this deadly disease.
One quote that specifically resonated with me was “…she witnessed the suffering caused by the virus. Epstein still works in public health care in developing countries.” It reminded me on the movie “Philadelphia” directed by Jonathan Demme. In the movie, a gay man finds out that he has AIDS. After being fired near the beginning of the movie, the remainder is his battle in the court room to sue the company as well as fight off the disease.Throughout the movie, which takes place in the early 90’s, we are able to see exactly how this disease affects not only him but his loved ones as well. After seeing such a heartbreaking experience the fact that she is willing to go back to developing countries is astonishing to me. This highly credentialed woman sees the bigger picture – prevention before treatment – and based off her work, she believes strongly in it.
