AIDS through twine

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.ibb.co/DQJ3KWK/newspaper1.png" width="327" height="721" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next1]]

Gaetan wakes up sore. He feels the beginning of a cold coming on, but, as a flight attendent who comes into contact with many passengers a day, this is not unexpected. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[[next|next2]]]

After weeks of his cold symptoms getting worse, Gaetan decides to visit a physician at his next layover. During one of his regular layovers in Los Angeles, California, Gaetan goes to the ER. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next3]]

(text-colour:black)+(bg:#fff4e6)[<div id="line1"></div> <div id="line2"></div> <script> // JavaScript code var text1 = "Diagnosis: Flu"; // First line of text var text2 = "PPrescription: Oseltamivir"; // Second line of text var index = 0; function typeText() { if (index < text1.length) { document.getElementById('line1').innerHTML += text1.charAt(index); index++; setTimeout(typeText, 75); // Adjust speed here (milliseconds) } else if (index === text1.length) { index++; // Move to the next line setTimeout(typeText, 1000); // Delay before typing the next line (milliseconds) } else if (index > text1.length && index < text1.length + text2.length) { document.getElementById('line2').innerHTML += text2.charAt(index - text1.length); index++; setTimeout(typeText, 75); // Adjust speed here (milliseconds) } } // Call the function to start typing typeText(); </script>] (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next4]]

After collecting his perscription for Tamiflu, Gaetan gets on his next flight back to Quebec, Canada. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next.5]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.ibb.co/Df3GNr0/5fff9d27cdfa536b931891f7faabc3f633-31-gaetan-dugas-ny-post-1987-crop-w710.webp" width="1122" height="717" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next7]]

(text-colour:black)+(bg:#fff4e6)[<div id="line1"></div> <div id="line2"></div> <script> // JavaScript code var text1 = "Diagnosis: Gay-Related Immune Disease"; // First line of text var text2 = "PPrescription: ???"; // Second line of text var index = 0; function typeText() { if (index < text1.length) { document.getElementById('line1').innerHTML += text1.charAt(index); index++; setTimeout(typeText, 75); // Adjust speed here (milliseconds) } else if (index === text1.length) { index++; // Move to the next line setTimeout(typeText, 1000); // Delay before typing the next line (milliseconds) } else if (index > text1.length && index < text1.length + text2.length) { document.getElementById('line2').innerHTML += text2.charAt(index - text1.length); index++; setTimeout(typeText, 75); // Adjust speed here (milliseconds) } } // Call the function to start typing typeText(); </script>] (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next5]]

He is immedately bound to his hospital bed. Doctors and nurses come in to his room in hazmats suits, family and friends are too afraid to visit. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next8.5]] (set: $gaetan to $gaetan + 1)

Gaetan dies alone, age 31. (if: $gaetan >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Gaetan|LearnMore]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <iframe width=1024 height=660 src='https://media.c-spanvideo.org/trimmed/clip/506/5067419/clip.5067419.MP4-M20.mp4?Policy=eyJTdGF0ZW1lbnQiOlt7IlJlc291cmNlIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9tZWRpYS5jLXNwYW52aWRlby5vcmcvdHJpbW1lZC9jbGlwLzUwNi81MDY3NDE5L2NsaXAuNTA2NzQxOS5NUDQtTTIwLm1wNCIsIkNvbmRpdGlvbiI6eyJEYXRlTGVzc1RoYW4iOnsiQVdTOkVwb2NoVGltZSI6MTcxMTMzNTQ3NX0sIklQQWRkcmVzcyI6eyJBV1M6U291cmNlSXAiOiIxMjguMjM5LjI0MC45OSJ9fX1dfQ__&Signature=hga3oWcZa8VhnlLWz6hTvVx9s9gl7nfX8Bkz7DlZDgq23IZ-03Fky0yR4HQOaD64KrEzAMDewD0QuE74L-kFqgCwh-iODxb9hi0AMxnPoQqmMt3Nq-UgDG7fkcDoclIJbBw8eSQApVUl8MXXZ-r4nQ2Ga2JeGQPGjMx6nlrrh64_&Key-Pair-Id=APKAIHKVWBEAXX562G7Q' allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' frameborder=0></iframe> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|then]]

(set: $gaetan to $gaetan + 1) Gaetan's partner has previously disclosed his HIV-positive status. He is taking Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) to signficantly reduce his risk of transmission. (if: $gaetan >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Gaetan|LearnMore]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

Nurse Alice works at a hospital in Malawi. They are well-funded for the region, with enough doctors and nurses to treat all the patients that need it. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|later]]

Nurse Alice works at an overrun, underfunded hospital in Malawi. HIV has spread quickly in her area, with patients only coming in once the disease has progressed close to the point of no return. Donated anti-retroviral therapy (ART) from abroad can only do so much, considering the stigma that comes with the disease and lack of knowledge. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|after.5]]

Despite the brain drain affecting medical personnel in Malawi, Nurse Alice remains one of the few dedicated healthcare professionals at her hospital, tirelessly serving her community. Due to directed donations, the hospital has the financial resources to help the population manage and prevent the spread of HIV. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|ensuite]] (set: $alice to $alice + 1)

Gaetan goes in for his annual physical. This includes in-depth bloodwork. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|then1]]

(text-colour:black)+(bg:#fff4e6)[<div id="line1"></div> <div id="line2"></div> <script> // JavaScript code var text1 = "HIV: Positive"; // First line of text var text2 = ""; // Second line of text var index = 0; function typeText() { if (index < text1.length) { document.getElementById('line1').innerHTML += text1.charAt(index); index++; setTimeout(typeText, 75); // Adjust speed here (milliseconds) } else if (index === text1.length) { index++; // Move to the next line setTimeout(typeText, 1000); // Delay before typing the next line (milliseconds) } else if (index > text1.length && index < text1.length + text2.length) { document.getElementById('line2').innerHTML += text2.charAt(index - text1.length); index++; setTimeout(typeText, 75); // Adjust speed here (milliseconds) } } // Call the function to start typing typeText(); </script>] (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|then2]]

Gaetan is immediately prescribed anti-retroviral therapy (ART). The medication schedule is complicated and expensive, but worth it. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|then3.5]]

Gaetan shares his diagnosis with his immediate family. He is shunned and his family members no longer want any physical contact with him. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|then4]]

Gaetan is fired from his people-facing job as a flight attendent, even though his medication has suppressed the virus to the extent that he can't transmit it. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|then5.5]]

Gaetan connects with a group of fellow HIV-positive adults. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|then6]] (set: $gaetan to $gaetan + 1)

While Gaetan continues to struggle against the stigma of the disease, his new friends and medication keeps his life long and full. (if: $gaetan >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Gaetan|LearnMore]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

During a routine IV-insertion for a patient with an unknown wasting disease, Nurse Alice receives a needlestick injury. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|later1]]

The patient in question has tested negative for common STIs transmitted through the blood, so this is no big deal. Nurse Alice bandages her finger, puts a glove over it, and goes about her day. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|later2]]

Months later, she develops a rash and has difficulty swallowing. She immediately goes to her workplace to receive a diagnosis and a solution. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|later3.5]]

She dies in the hospital while being treated by her coworkers, age 41. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|later4]] (set: $alice to $alice + 1)

(text-colour:black)+(bg:#fff4e6)[<div id="line1"></div> <div id="line2"></div> <script> // JavaScript code var text1 = "Cause of Death: Unknown"; // First line of text var text2 = "KKnown Symptom: Wasting"; // Second line of text var index = 0; function typeText() { if (index < text1.length) { document.getElementById('line1').innerHTML += text1.charAt(index); index++; setTimeout(typeText, 75); // Adjust speed here (milliseconds) } else if (index === text1.length) { index++; // Move to the next line setTimeout(typeText, 1000); // Delay before typing the next line (milliseconds) } else if (index > text1.length && index < text1.length + text2.length) { document.getElementById('line2').innerHTML += text2.charAt(index - text1.length); index++; setTimeout(typeText, 75); // Adjust speed here (milliseconds) } } // Call the function to start typing typeText(); </script>] (if: $alice >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Alice|LearnMore1]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

After suffering a needlestick injury for an HIV-positive patient, Alice immediately gets tested. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|after1]]

Initial results are negative, but it can take weeks to months for a positive test, even with infection. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|after2]]

Nurse Alice continues to work, and waits. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|after3]]

After noticing a rash beginning on her chest, she gets tested. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|after 4.2]]

Nurse Alice quickly begins taking Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART).. Her symptoms begin to subside and she is able to work again. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|after5]]

Community members are shocked to see how well ART works on Nurse Alice. Soon, she begins to lead educational groups and encourages others to get tested and take the medication that is offered. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|after6]]

The stigma does not stop completely, but Nurse Alice provides much-needed support and information to her community. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|after7.1]] (set: $alice to $alice + 1)

With the help of ART, Nurse Alice travels around her country educating others. (if: $alice >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Alice|LearnMore1]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

New training protocols involve being conscientious around sharps and patients whose HIV status is unknown. Nurse Alice takes this training to heart, and never becomes infected. (if: $alice >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Alice|LearnMore1]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

Thokozani's close friend is injured in an apartheid protest. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|apres]]

When Thorozaki and his friend are injured riding a bike, he realizes he may have been exposed to HIV. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|donc]]

In a post-apartheid uprising, Thokozani and his friend are injured. He applies pressure to his friend's head wound and gets him medical attention. He knows the blood-to-blood contact has put him at increased risk of developing HIV, but his current blood test is negative for the disease. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|and]]

He tends to his friend's head wound while his own hand has multiple gashes. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|apres1]]

Later, he moves to Europe for an artist's residency. While abroad, his lymph nodes begin to swell. He heads home for medical care. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|apres2.1]]

The doctor is unsure of the proper diagnosis, but quickly recommends over-the-counter medications and moves on. Under apartheid, the hospital is overcrowded and underfunded. They don't have time to treat colds. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|apres3.2]]

He dies at home, age 26. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|ok]] (set: $thokozani to $thokozani + 1)

He goes away to Europe for an artist's residency. His lymph nodes swell and he knows it means he is HIV-positive. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|and1.2]]

He travels back home to South Africa and visits the doctor for confirmation. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|and2]]

The necessary treatment, anti-retroviral therapy (ART), is expensive. To make ends meet, Thorozaki considers giving up his art to get another job. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|and4]]

With donations, downsizing, and a second (part-time) job, Thorozaki can continue to make and exhibit his work. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|and5.5]] (set: $thokozani to $thokozani + 1)

His work touches many and his ART keeps his HIV manageable. (if: $thokozani >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Thokozani|LearnMore2]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

He gets tested and is supplied with Pre-exposure Prophalyxis (PrEP) as a preventative measure. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|donc1]]

Months pass and he has regular check-ups with the doctor. He remains negative for HIV and continues to make art (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|donc1.1]] (set: $thokozani to $thokozani + 1)

Instead of getting better, he only gets worse. He rapidly loses weight and is unable to keep food down. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next6.6]]

Without the strength to go back to Los Angeles, he visits a local doctor in Quebec. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next6]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.ibb.co/fFWhVdv/Ryan-White-School.jpg" width= "668" height= "947" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|then4]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.ibb.co/ZVZD0KN/hero-image-fill-size-1200x675-v1611613496.jpg" Width= "1200" Height= "675" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|then5]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.ibb.co/XpY89yM/needle.png" Width= "394" Height= "650" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|later3.7]]

No type of treatment is helping her - traditional medicine included. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|later3]]

(text-colour:black)+(bg:#fff4e6)[<div id="line1"></div> <div id="line2"></div> <script> // JavaScript code var text1 = "Cause of Death: Unknown"; // First line of text var text2 = ""; // Second line of text var index = 0; function typeText() { if (index < text1.length) { document.getElementById('line1').innerHTML += text1.charAt(index); index++; setTimeout(typeText, 75); // Adjust speed here (milliseconds) } else if (index === text1.length) { index++; // Move to the next line setTimeout(typeText, 1000); // Delay before typing the next line (milliseconds) } else if (index > text1.length && index < text1.length + text2.length) { document.getElementById('line2').innerHTML += text2.charAt(index - text1.length); index++; setTimeout(typeText, 75); // Adjust speed here (milliseconds) } } // Call the function to start typing typeText(); </script>] (if: $thokozani >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Thokozani|LearnMore2]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.ibb.co/B4K7GTf/newgaydiseases-ourown-july1982.jpg" width="900" height="516" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.postimg.cc/FKPfbxXz/deadly.png" alt="deadlysilence" Width= "1034" Height= "1258" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|after7]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <image src="https://i.postimg.cc/2jt6S6Cp/severe.png" width="1243.2" height="332" </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|after]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://arteye.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/meditation-variation-104-x-77-cm--scaled.jpg" Width= "1265.76" Height= "1843.2" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|apres2]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://arteye.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/102-x-88-cm-MM-and-Oil-and-Paper-scaled.jpg" Width= "1311" Height= "1536" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|apres3]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://arteye.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/IMG_20180411_193209.jpg" Width= "800" Height= "1213" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|and1]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://arteye.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/Thokozani_Mthiyane_9.jpg" Width= "1000" Height= "1048" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|and5]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/db/Thokozani_Mthiyane_.jpg" Width= "1203.2" Height= "803.2" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (if: $thokozani >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Thokozani|LearnMore2]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

[[Begin|Choose]] (set: $gaetan to 0) (set: $alice to 0) (set: $thokozani to 0) (set: $kimberly to 0)

Gaetan Dugas, born in 1952 in Quebec, Canada, was a French-Canadian flight attendant known for his role in the early history of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Dugas was a charismatic and outgoing individual, well-liked by his friends and colleagues. He was also openly gay at a time when societal attitudes towards homosexuality were often discriminatory and stigmatizing. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, as HIV/AIDS began to emerge as a global health crisis, Dugas became one of the first individuals to be identified as an early case of HIV infection in North America. He gained notoriety after being labeled as "Patient Zero" in journalist Randy Shilts' book "And the Band Played On," although subsequent research has shown that he was not the original source of the virus. Dugas' extensive travels as a flight attendant contributed to the spread of HIV, as he unknowingly transmitted the virus to multiple sexual partners across different cities. His case became emblematic of the complex and often misunderstood dynamics of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, fueling misconceptions and fear surrounding the disease. Despite the stigma and scapegoating he faced, Dugas remained defiant and unapologetic about his sexuality and lifestyle. He passed away in 1984 at the age of 31, becoming one of the early casualties of the AIDS pandemic. His story serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS and the importance of compassion, understanding, and effective public health responses in combating the epidemic. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]]

Alice Kadzanja, born in the early 1980s in Malawi, was a dedicated nurse who played a pivotal role in combating the HIV/AIDS epidemic in her community. Growing up in a country deeply affected by the disease, Alice was driven by a strong sense of compassion and a desire to make a difference in the lives of those affected. After completing her nursing education, Alice joined Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), an international humanitarian organization providing medical aid to populations in crisis. Assigned to a rural clinic in Malawi, Alice worked tirelessly to provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities. Alice's commitment to her work led her to the frontlines of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, where she witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the disease on individuals and families. Despite the challenges she faced, including limited resources and cultural barriers, Alice remained dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to those affected by HIV/AIDS. As a nurse working in Malawi, Alice played a crucial role in HIV testing, counseling, and treatment, helping to educate communities about prevention and reduce the stigma surrounding the disease. Her efforts helped to improve access to lifesaving antiretroviral therapy (ART) for people living with HIV/AIDS, contributing to a reduction in mortality rates and an improvement in overall health outcomes. Alice's unwavering dedication and selflessness in the face of adversity made her a respected and beloved figure in her community. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the positive impact she made in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Malawi. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]]

Thokozani Mthiyane, a Johannesburg-based artist, draws inspiration from his upbringing in Cleremont Township near Durban, South Africa. Immersed in the studios of artists Sfiso KaMkame and Thami Jali during his formative years, Mthiyane's artistic journey was profoundly shaped by their mentorship. With experience in children’s theatre and a solo exhibition at the Flat Gallery in Durban, Mthiyane's multidisciplinary approach spans expressionist painting, trilingual poetry in France, and dance performances in Holland. In addition to his artistic endeavors, Mthiyane is also a dedicated advocate for HIV awareness and support. Living openly with HIV, he uses his platform as an artist to challenge stigma and misconceptions surrounding the disease. Through his work, Mthiyane seeks to foster dialogue and understanding, encouraging others to confront the realities of HIV/AIDS with compassion and empathy. Embracing the urgency to express himself through art, Mthiyane's abstract pieces evoke memory and becoming, exploring spiritual and cultural life through non-representational forms. His ongoing artistic quest seeks to enhance his aesthetic identity, creating personal poetic journeys that resonate with the uncharted territories of the human experience. Through his art, Mthiyane navigates the darkness and light of existence, transforming raw materials into enlightening metaphysical experiences. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]]

Kimberly, a college student in Florida, wakes up with a sore mouth. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|b]]

While at college, Kimberly goes to a dentist for wisdom tooth removal. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|a]]

Kimberly goes to a local dentist in her college town in Florida for a wisdom tooth extraction. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|c]] (set: $kimberly to $kimberly + 1)

After a trip to the ER, she books an appointment with a local dentist for a routine molar removal. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|b1]]

After a quick recovery, Kimberly returns to school. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|b2]]

Over two years after the successful procedure, she notices white lesions in her mouth. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|b3]]

Before she can even make time for another ER visit, Kimberly begins to develop other symptoms: soreness and vomiting. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|4b]]

At the emergency room she is diagnosed with HIV. Immediately, she suspects her bisexual dentist is behind the transmission. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|b5]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.postimg.cc/0QpTRV52/lawsuit.png" Width= "386" Height= "804" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|b6]]

Jilted that her dentist was not required to disclose his HIV-positive status, she looks for further legal recourse. Throughout the malpractice lawsuit, Kimberly has gained the attention of the media. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|b7]] (set: $kimberly to $kimberly + 1)

Kimberly uses her platform to advocate for mandatory testing of medical professionals and patients. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|b8]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.postimg.cc/VkvPr9gD/dying.png" Width= "802" Height= "809" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|b9]]

To many, Kimberly is the ideal victim of AIDS: a white, American girl who is saving herself for marriage. Her platform is continually uplifted as lawmakers and activists look for ways to control the AIDS epidemic. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|b10]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.postimg.cc/T2bwhx1p/dead.png" Width= "737" Height= "814" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (if: $kimberly >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Kimberly|LearnMore3]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

Kimberly Bergalis, born on January 19, 1968, in Tamarac, Florida, USA, became a prominent figure in the discourse surrounding HIV/AIDS during the late 1980s and early 1990s. In 1987, at the age of 19, Kimberly was diagnosed with HIV following a dental procedure, marking one of the first widely publicized cases of HIV transmission through healthcare settings. Kimberly Bergalis, born in 1968, became a pivotal figure in the HIV/AIDS discourse during the late 1980s. At 19, she was diagnosed with HIV following a dental procedure, one of the first widely known cases of transmission through healthcare settings. Bergalis's story intersected with prevailing homophobia of the era, as misconceptions about HIV/AIDS fueled stigma and discrimination against affected individuals, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. Despite facing such challenges, she courageously advocated for stricter infection control measures and raised awareness about the disease. Her activism, while contentious at times, sparked crucial discussions about healthcare safety protocols and the need for compassion towards those affected by HIV/AIDS. However, her story was also exploited by some to reinforce homophobic narratives, further marginalizing already vulnerable communities. Kimberly Bergalis passed away in 1991, leaving behind a complex legacy that continues to prompt reflections on the intersections of health, stigma, and discrimination, emphasizing the imperative to combat homophobia in healthcare advocacy efforts. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]]

Months later, during her annual physical, she tests HIV positive. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|a1]]

Unsure of how she got it, she goes on Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|a2]]

After other cases in her area pop up, Kimberly believes her bisexual dentist transmitted the disease. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|a3]]

She attempts to sue the dentist for medical malpractice. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|a4]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.postimg.cc/8CgwQN7M/lawsuits.png" Width= "718" Height= "751" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|a5]]

Kimberly comes under fire from activists and lawmakers who believe she is leveraging her story to stigmatize the disease and the gay community. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|a6]]

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://i.postimg.cc/mr3jTJ9q/stigma.png" Width= "423" Height= "833" style="display: block; margin: auto;"> </div> (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|a7]]

A bill she would like to sponser never makes it to fruition. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|a8]] (set: $kimberly to $kimberly + 1)

Regardless of her failed political pursuits, with the help of ART, Kimberly graduates from college and lives a full life. (if: $kimberly >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Kimberly|LearnMore3]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

The recent 'Don't Say Gay' laws have driven her dentist into the closet due to homophobia, but the Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) he takes ensures his disease is non-transmissible. (if: $kimberly >= 3)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Kimberly|LearnMore3]] ] (else:)[ (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[Begin again|Choose]] ]

He is identified in the media as Patient Zero of the epidemic that would shake the world. (align:"==>")+(box:"=========X")[[next|next8]]