The Editor, Sir:

I am a 32-year-old male who is HIV-positive. I have been on medication for quiet a while now, so it would be officially AIDS. I use the name Bryan Charles to protect my identity.

At this point, I am okay, as I am taking my medication; but my main concern is sometimes I feel suicidal when I think of my situation. I don't really discuss these feelings with anyone, although I talk to a counsellor and social worker. I am told that HIV and AIDS is not a life sentence, but believe me, I feel hopeless when I think of the bus fares, taxes and rent that consume 97 per cent of my salary. If I should get sick now I would suffer not from my illness but from not been able to help myself financially. With the stigma of HIV/AIDS in Jamaica, you can't tell anyone; it would kill you faster than the disease itself. I occasionally get sick, but nothing serious for now. The Government is not doing anything to make us 'HIV/AIDS sufferers' remaining life even comfortable, such as making us exempt from taxation. I need to build even a one-boardroom so if anyone can help me, please contact me at the email below.

I am, etc.,

BRYAN CHARLES

bryanbcharles@yahoo.com