ON December 1st 2015 World AIDS Day candles were lit at the St. Andrews Anglican Church in solidarity of those who are infected or affected by HIV/AIDS epidemic. This annual service was hosted by Bishop Brooks in conjunction with the staff of the Ministry of Health and Social Development, and The Chronic Disease Unit which have national responsibility for the HIV response.
This year’s ceremony had an additionally cause for lighting the candles, that of hope. The HIV response has made significant gains such as reducing deaths due to HIV/AIDS and in prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. Proving the aim of eliminating the epidemic worldwide by 2030 is an achievable target.
As the candles burned within the walls of St. Andrews silent prayers were rendered for continued achievements in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Programme Officer for HIV/AIDS Mrs. Gillian Artsen emphasized that “Getting to Zero” is achievable if there are collaborated efforts to sustain and improve the gains that have been achieved.
– Press Release
(Published without editing by The Anguillian Newspaper.)
