Dear All, I have just returned from the latest long-term survivor’s weekend and I was overjoyed to see Maurice and Robert. During the weekend I spent much quality time with Maurice and Robert, it was just so nice to re-define my relationship with them both. especially Rob as he and I are really the only two original members of Body Positive North Midlands as was. I have drawn strength from many sources but I must say this last (but not final) long-term survivor’s weekend was especially important for me. I am refreshed, and just so happy to be able to write to you all. I called into the office of AB+ and felt compelled to write to your newsletter so as to say a big thank you to Michael Carey and so many more. If it were not for Michael and Andy C. I really do not think that I would have made it to being a long-term survivor. If I listed all the individuals I would like to thank you are looking at another 7 or 8 pages. I am proud to be a part of AB+ and proud to be able to say thank you once again to all at Staffs Buddies who saw past my heroin addiction and gave me a chance to be myself again. I would like to say at this point. although I do not reside in Stoke-on-Trent anymore, w’hen I receive my copies of Positive Lives, I feel so close to what is going on in and around Stoke-on-Trent. I believe that we at AB+ will take Staffordshire Buddies as a prime example of what teamwork and dedication can achieve. You are a credit and I cannot praise you enough. Well done! I look forward to visiting the centre in the near future and hope that maybe one or two of the Trustees from AB+ can accommpany me to see how well dedication can be rewarding. I enclose my poem (see next issue -ed) which I contributed to World Aids Day 1998 (circle of life/celebrating the challenge) and also a tribute meant especially for me from my carers 19 year old daughter (see next issue -ed). I find it very moving that I could be loved as I am, a gay man who happens to be HIV+ and in recovery of heroin addiction. I count my blessings every day. I am so very, very lucky. Please also find a copy of ‘Celebrating the Challenge’. I look forward to writing in again and must say I acknowledge Positive Lives for its extremely hard work. I have to say also that it is one of the best that I have read. I thank your newsletter team once again. Good health, love and a hug, Kindest regards. Your friend, Mr. A. J. Bould

According to my physician, it was depression that was affecting my current state of health. (I believe the problem is the HIV drugs) However, I do seem to be going though a gloomy patch and I suppose two years on HAART is enough to depress even the laughing cavalier! He suggested to consider taking anti-depressants. I hated the idea! Another health care professional asked me if I had thought of taking St Johns Wort. Of course! St John’s Wort - the herbal Prozac! My acupuncturist told me that St Johns Wort was prescribed by doctors in Germany for 60% of patients with mild to medium depression. It is a herb which has been the subject of considerable scientific research and its benefits have been proven. After one week taking 20 drops of St Johns Wort, in a small amount of water, twice a day, I seem to have more energy and a lot less fatigue. St. Johns Wort isn’t cheap. Surpise, surpise! It set me back £13 for a 100ml bottle but you can get it in tablet form. All herbal products are considerably cheaper if ordered directly from the suppliers. Maybe BP might consider setting up a buying association so that we can enjoy this benefit ? Local reader

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