Princes William and Harry: Our generation must continue the fight against HIV
Writing a letter to mark the thirtieth anniversary of the founding of THT, The Terrence Higgins Trust, the Duke of Cambridge, Prince William and his brother Prince Harry have praised the work of the charity and called on their generation to continue the battle against the illness.
Their letter reads:-
Our generation has never known a world without HIV. We have grown up knowing of the devastating impact this virus has on lives, on families, on communities. We know, too, that HIV can be treated and the lives of sufferers extended by many years. However, there is still a stigma which blights sufferers of the disease, even today.
Terrence Higgins Trust, founded thirty years ago by friends of Terrence Higgins, one of the first people in the United Kingdom to die of AIDS, has been the other constant in this story of our generation. Every day, its inspirational staff and volunteers work ceaselessly to turn the lives of HIV sufferers around. They have prevented countless new infections, supported thousands of people to live healthy lives with HIV, and campaigned tirelessly to gain a greater public understanding of the personal, social and media impact of HIV.
Terrence Higgins Trust is a fantastic source of advice and support on HIV related matters, always making sure those it cares for are treated with kindness and understanding. Terry Higgins has done so much to help so many people. The wonderful legacy he inspired lives on today in his Trust.
The fight against HIV started 30 years ago. Our generation must pick up the sword and continue the fight. There is still no cure or vaccine. However, we know it is possible to prevent HIV from spreading further in the future.
Terrence Higgins Trust will be to the fore in this, and for that reason, and because our mother believed so
passionately in the work of the Trust, we wholeheartedly congratulate you on thirty years of selfless service to others.
Terrence Higgins Trust was founded in 1982 following the death of Terry Higgins, one of the first people to die of AIDS in the UK. The charity was founded by Higgin’s boyfriend Rupert Whitaker and two friends to prevent the spread and promote awareness of HIV and AIDS.
Sir Nick Partridge, THT’s chief executive, said: “We are incredibly honoured to have this message of support from their Royal Highnesses. It’s wonderful to see the princes inspiring their generation to take up the cause the way their mother inspired mine.”
