Minister of Health seeks answers and changes at HIV/AIDS strategy meeting

Friday, December 12, 2003

Cayman Islands' Minister of Health Services was the guest speaker at a strategic plan meeting for the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS in the Caribbean, at the Marriott Beach Resort this week.

The Hon Gilbert McLean spoke of HIV/AIDS as a pandemic that was "globally exerting a tremendous force against the human spirit, but the human spirit is pushing back, globally exerting a tremendous force against HIV/AIDS." 

The meeting, hosted by the Caribbean Epidemiology Centre (CAREC), described AIDS as being "no respecter of national, cultural, and societal boundaries." According to international health officials, there are 40 million people living with HIV/AIDS worldwide; 22 million have already died. It is estimated that by the year 2010, the disease will affect an additional 40 million people. 

In response, Mr McLean said: "We recognise that this scourge cannot be fought on an individual basis; united we stand, divided we fall. The fight against adversity often brings tremendous clarity of heart and mind. It reminds us that regardless of our different cultures and languages, we all have red blood and undoubtedly are our brother's and sister's keeper."

CAREC, which has provided leadership and support for countries dealing with HIV/AIDS, first became involved with the Cayman Islands in 1989 when the centre assisted in drafting a medium-term plan. It has since expanded its focus to include economic and social needs as well as health, a result of the pervasiveness of the disease.

On Thursday and Friday, 11 and 12 December, CAREC consultants will again be offering their expertise, assisting Caymanian health officials with the definition of Cayman's key elements in the national strategic plan. 

Mr McLean, while demonstrating an obvious need for local change with respect to HIV/AIDS, also made it clear that global change was still, and always would be, a priority: "While we are devoted to caring for residents on our shores, I emphasise that we are also committed to doing our part to help you care for yours. We will continue to offer our local knowledge and experience with HIV/AIDS to strengthen the regional and global effort."

"While I look forward to each breakthrough with HIV and AIDS," he concluded, "my heart is fixed toward the day when we can wipe the sweat off our brows and celebrate with each other, because the final battle against HIV/AIDS has been won."

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