Every year, people worldwide come together for World AIDS Day. It is a moment to reflect on the lives touched by HIV, to honor the strength shown by individuals and families, and to renew the shared commitment to ending HIV/AIDS.
It is also a reminder that support and compassion matter, whether you are living with HIV or caring about someone who is.
This year, the theme "Overcoming disruption, transforming the HIV/AIDS response" speaks to the challenges many communities are facing.
Even with these difficulties, there is real courage in how people continue to show up for one another, especially when help is needed most.
At The McGregor Clinic, there is a strong connection to this call from UNAIDS and partners worldwide. You are invited to stand with us in supporting unity, compassion, and meaningful action.
In 2025, the movement toward thriving, healthy lives for people affected by HIV is at a pivotal point. A significant funding gap is putting hard-earned progress at risk.
HIV prevention services are being disrupted, and community-led services that many vulnerable people rely on are being cut.
At the same time, laws that punish same-sex relationships, gender identity, and drug use are hurting key populations. These laws make it harder for people to access safe care, and you may see friends or community members struggle due to these barriers.
All of this creates more fear, stigma, and challenges for anyone trying to reach HIV treatment and care.
Political leadership is a crucial component in transforming the HIV/AIDS response. Leaders can help create change by removing legal and social barriers that hinder people's access to care.
This includes repealing harmful laws that disproportionately affect key populations and implementing policies that respect human rights.
Communities are at the heart of the HIV response. They provide care, support, and understanding for people who often feel alone.
This community resilience is especially important during times of disruption. At The McGregor Clinic in Fort Myers, we see every day how powerful these connections can be.
People who are part of key populations often face stigma and discrimination. This includes LGBTQ+ people, people who use drugs, sex workers, and others who are pushed to the side.
Whether you live with HIV or support someone who does, the following steps can make life easier, safer, and more hopeful during a time of disruption:
When you connect with trusted community-led services, you gain access to care, information, and understanding. These services play a crucial role in helping people maintain their health.
If you are living with HIV, staying in care is one of the strongest ways to protect your health. If you love someone with HIV, encouraging regular contact with care providers shows your support.
Stigma affects both people living with HIV and the people who support them. Speaking up for fairness helps create safer spaces and reduces fear. Every act of kindness builds inclusive healthcare that welcomes everyone.
This World AIDS Day is a reminder that no one has to face HIV alone. Once again, we at The McGregor Clinic invite you to stand with us in calling for compassion, unity, and strong leadership.
You or your loved one can count on our expert medical care, community support, and a team that listens.
Our HIV services provide treatment, primary care, wellness screenings, case management and preventative care which include confidential HIV testing, referrals to trusted mental health providers, and other forms of support.
If you are ready to take the next step in your care, contact us today.
When we support one another, we help build a future where ending HIV/AIDS by 2030 can become a reality.
