Petrina Francis, Staff Reporter

Junior Thomas, an inmate at the Tower Street Adult Correctional Centre for seven years, was diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in January.

But while he is locked behind bars, on a 10-year sentence and living with a disease which is highly stigmatised and without a cure, he said he is not daunted.

"When I found out that I had HIV, I didn't really feel anyway, because my mom cheered me up and I got my medical counselling," he told The Gleaner Wednesday after receiving treatment from medical doctors and students from NOVA Southeastern College of Medicine in the United States.

"I don't put it on my head or put a rope 'round my neck," said the 33-year-old who is serving the sentence for rape - a crime he said he did not commit.

"I take my medication every day because they (doctors and counsellors at the facility) tell me not to worry about it."

"They said once I take my medication I can live as long as ever."

As a result of his illness, Mr. Thomas uses a walking stick because of weakness in his bones.

"My foot bottom is tender and my skin keep itching me but I am not worried," he told our news team, at the Kingston prison facility.

Upon diagnosis, Mr. Thomas was transferred from his regular cell, which he shared with other inmates, to one where he is now by himself. His friend who is also HIV-positive provides him with emotional support.

"My friend help me to walk around sometime and him tell me not to worry myself because I am going to come back strong one day," he said.

Mr. Thomas is among scores of inmates believed to be living with HIV/AIDS. The Department of Corrections is currently awaiting results from a study, which was done among prisoners, to determine the prevalence rate.

email:petrina.francis@gleanerjm.com

*Name changed to protect identity