An important forum is coming to Winnipeg today. The People Living with HIV/Aids Forum and the Canadian AIDS Society’s Annual Meeting are happening from May 16 to 18 and Exchange District clinic, Our Own Health Centre (OOHC), is thrilled to be a part of such an important event.
“Enormous progress has been made in the fight against AIDS,” said Dr. Dick Smith, Medical Director of OOHC. “From a disease that killed horribly and a society that fearfully despised its victims to a manageable chronic illness, and an epidemic which realistic scientists now are working to end.”
OOHC has been established to meet the health and wellness needs of gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men in Winnipeg and Manitoba. In honour of this event coming to Winnipeg, their board of directors decided to establish an award for an individual or organization that has made significant contributions to the health or well-being of gay/bisexual men. For their inaugural award, they will be honouring the Canadian AIDS Society.
“The Canadian Aids Society played a crucial role in educating the community about HIV, advocating for resources for research and treatment; and helping those infected with the disease to cope,” said Dr. Dick Smith. “The board felt that the work of the Canadian AIDS Society epitomizes the contribution to the health or well-being of G/B/MSM that we wish to recognize. We are pleased to have the opportunity to present the OOHC Award to such an important national organization.”
Our Own Health Centre will be holding a reception for the Canadian AIDS Society delegates on Tuesday, May 17th from 6 to 8 pm.
“We still have to fight AIDS, even if few people in Canada actually get that form of the disease anymore,” said Dr. Dick Smith. “Although it is not the horror it once was, HIV is still the most important health issue in the gay and bisexual community.”
Our Own Health Centre has been experiencing great success since opening its doors on McDermot in the Exchange in March. The clinic plays an important role in HIV care, both in initially identifying the infection and in providing care for general health issues.