Patrick Lindsay, CCHW (Him/His/They)

Case Maanger/Social Worker, Midway Specialty Care Center

Years as an ANAC member: 15

President, Central Florida Chapter

What does Southern HIV/AIDS Awareness Day mean to you?

Southern HIV/AIDS awareness day (SHAAD) means a great deal to me particularly because I live in the south and HIV is still more prevalent here than in other territories. This has a lot to do with stigma, homophobia, discrimination and in some cases poverty. I would love to see a change in my lifetime and continue to encourage people to get tested. Know your status and do not be afraid of living your truth in order to live a high-quality life.

Why did you join the fight to end HIV/AIDS?

I joined the HIV/AIDS fight back in 1998. I was diagnosed in 1993 and somehow was drawn into the field as they say and have been here ever since. I love to help other people and still do to this day with their diagnosis. It is just unfortunate that we still have people coming to my office newly diagnosed despite the progress made.

What does ANAC mean to you?

ANAC has given me another outlet to get cutting edge information to pass on to my community. As current president I am able to bring in really great presenters to educate us all on the constantly evolving world of HIV/AIDS and will continue to do so for as long as I can.

Who/what inspires you?

My mentor is Donna Sabatino. She has been a pivotal part of my progression living with HIV along with many other patients.