AIDS: The Lost Voices

Part 1 of 2: The Allegations & InvestigationWilliam Hampson, host of AIDS The Lost Voices, has recently emerged from the AIDS newspaper archives as the focus of a compelling two-part episode. In January 2025, Will found himself compelled to take legal action against his employer, Fuller’s, Smith & Turner, after enduring persistent discrimination at work due to his HIV disability. Since lodging that claim a troubling paper trail emerges, documenting the pub company’s repeated efforts to obstruct his return to work and dismiss his concerns about illegal activities, compounded by further instances of HIV-related discrimination and Will was subjected to physical assault, followed by the company and its representatives retaliating with unfounded allegations of racism against him. These retaliatory accusations resulted in disciplinary measures and ultimately his dismissal, painting a stark picture of workplace injustice entwined with prejudice and abuse.However, from the outset, Will highlighted the flaws and inconsistencies in the alleged evidence. He pointed out that two witnesses who gave testimony were not present at the time of the incident. One witness, who claimed to have heard and repeated the alleged statement, was revealed to have been absent the entire day, as it was his day off. In the two-part series, Will meticulously dissects Fuller’s supposed evidence, unravelling it piece by piece with remarkable ease. His analysis exposes the company and its representatives as having fabricated claims in a bid to remove him from the organisation, motivated by prejudice against him for being ‘White, British & HIV+’.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog - Fired for being: White, British & HIV+----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -CCTV appeal presentation proving allegations to be false WATCH HERE YouTubeDISCLAIMER: Article 10 of the Human Rights Act protects everyone's right to freedom of expression, which includes holding opinions and receiving/imparting information and ideas without public authority interference. The right applies to various forms of expression, including speech, artistic works, publications, and broadcasting. This encompasses political speech, artistic expression, commercial speech, journalism, and expressions online. The right to have your own thoughts and beliefs. There is no grounds for defamation to be claimed given the evidence that supports the concerns raised along with my right to hold belief and opinions as the person subjected to such actions and behaviours as I have recalled them to the best of my knowledge and recollections.

Part 2 of 2: The Disciplinary & DismissalWilliam Hampson, host of AIDS The Lost Voices, has recently emerged from the AIDS newspaper archives as the focus of a compelling two-part episode. In January 2025, Will found himself compelled to take legal action against his employer, Fuller’s, Smith & Turner, after enduring persistent discrimination at work due to his HIV disability. Since lodging that claim a troubling paper trail emerges, documenting the pub company’s repeated efforts to obstruct his return to work and dismiss his concerns about illegal activities, compounded by further instances of HIV-related discrimination and Will was subjected to physical assault, followed by the company and its representatives retaliating with unfounded allegations of racism against him. These retaliatory accusations resulted in disciplinary measures and ultimately his dismissal, painting a stark picture of workplace injustice entwined with prejudice and abuse.However, from the outset, Will highlighted the flaws and inconsistencies in the alleged evidence. He pointed out that two witnesses who gave testimony were not present at the time of the incident. One witness, who claimed to have heard and repeated the alleged statement, was revealed to have been absent the entire day, as it was his day off. In the two-part series, Will meticulously dissects Fuller’s supposed evidence, unravelling it piece by piece with remarkable ease. His analysis exposes the company and its representatives as having fabricated claims in a bid to remove him from the organisation, motivated by prejudice against him for being ‘White, British & HIV+’.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog - Fired for being: White, British & HIV+----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -CCTV appeal presentation proving allegations to be false WATCH HERE YouTubeDISCLAIMER: Article 10 of the Human Rights Act protects everyone's right to freedom of expression, which includes holding opinions and receiving/imparting information and ideas without public authority interference. The right applies to various forms of expression, including speech, artistic works, publications, and broadcasting. This encompasses political speech, artistic expression, commercial speech, journalism, and expressions online. The right to have your own thoughts and beliefs. There is no grounds for defamation to be claimed given the evidence that supports the concerns raised along with my right to hold belief and opinions as the person subjected to such actions and behaviours as I have recalled them to the best of my knowledge and recollections.

The fifth and final episode in the diary series of Simon Daniels, a young gay man diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 1993. Prior to his diagnosis, he worked as a restaurant manager and was actively involved in acting as well as HIV/AIDS activism. In addition to these pursuits, Simon became a writer, sharing his personal experiences through his diary entries in a regular column titled Positively Speaking for the Hull Daily Mail. Simon’s candid reflections provided a powerful and intimate insight into living with the illness, raising awareness and fostering understanding during a challenging time.Thirty years on, much has changed in the science and treatment of HIV/AIDS, with advancements in medications turning what was once a fatal diagnosis into a manageable chronic condition. Despite this progress, the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS remains painfully persistent. While a growing number of people have become educated about the virus, many continue to harbour the ignorance and fear rooted in the 1980s and 1990s. Simon’s legacy endures as a vital insight into the lived experience of HIV/AIDS, reminding us that beyond medical breakthroughs, societal attitudes must evolve to truly support those infected and affected.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog - The Diary of Simon Daniels----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersPositively Speaking - Written by Simon Daniels / Printed Hull Daily Mail'Story of my Life' Neil Diamond 1986 YouTube - Spotify - Apple Music'I Dreamed a Dream' Piano Cover by Francesco Parrino YouTube - Spotify - Apple Music

Simon Daniels was a young gay man diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 1993. Prior to his diagnosis, he worked as a restaurant manager and was actively involved in acting as well as HIV/AIDS activism. In addition to these pursuits, Simon became a writer, sharing his personal experiences through his diary entries in a regular column titled Positively Speaking for the Hull Daily Mail. Simon’s candid reflections provided a powerful and intimate insight into living with the illness, raising awareness and fostering understanding during a challenging time.Thirty years on, much has changed in the science and treatment of HIV/AIDS, with advancements in medications turning what was once a fatal diagnosis into a manageable chronic condition. Despite this progress, the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS remains painfully persistent. While a growing number of people have become educated about the virus, many continue to harbour the ignorance and fear rooted in the 1980s and 1990s. Simon’s legacy endures as a vital insight into the lived experience of HIV/AIDS, reminding us that beyond medical breakthroughs, societal attitudes must evolve to truly support those infected and affected.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog - The Diary of Simon Daniels----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersPositively Speaking - Written by Simon Daniels / Printed Hull Daily MailI Dreamed a Dream, Les Misérables by Patti LuPone 1985 Apple Music

Simon Daniels was a young gay man diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 1993. Prior to his diagnosis, he worked as a restaurant manager and was actively involved in acting as well as HIV/AIDS activism. In addition to these pursuits, Simon became a writer, sharing his personal experiences through his diary entries in a regular column titled Positively Speaking for the Hull Daily Mail. Simon’s candid reflections provided a powerful and intimate insight into living with the illness, raising awareness and fostering understanding during a challenging time.Thirty years on, much has changed in the science and treatment of HIV/AIDS, with advancements in medications turning what was once a fatal diagnosis into a manageable chronic condition. Despite this progress, the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS remains painfully persistent. While a growing number of people have become educated about the virus, many continue to harbour the ignorance and fear rooted in the 1980s and 1990s. Simon’s legacy endures as a vital insight into the lived experience of HIV/AIDS, reminding us that beyond medical breakthroughs, societal attitudes must evolve to truly support those infected and affected.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog - The Diary of Simon Daniels----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersPositively Speaking - Written by Simon Daniels / Printed Hull Daily MailEastEnders © BBC 3rd June 1996 Grant threatens to expose Mark's HIV YouTubeDiamonds (Rhianna) Piano Cover by Francesco Parrino YouTube - Spotify - Apple MusicPoem: by Keith Parke from How Can You Write a Poem When You're Dying of Aids?

Simon Daniels was a young gay man diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 1993. Prior to his diagnosis, he worked as a restaurant manager and was actively involved in acting as well as HIV/AIDS activism. In addition to these pursuits, Simon became a writer, sharing his personal experiences through his diary entries in a regular column titled Positively Speaking for the Hull Daily Mail. Simon’s candid reflections provided a powerful and intimate insight into living with the illness, raising awareness and fostering understanding during a challenging time.Thirty years on, much has changed in the science and treatment of HIV/AIDS, with advancements in medications turning what was once a fatal diagnosis into a manageable chronic condition. Despite this progress, the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS remains painfully persistent. While a growing number of people have become educated about the virus, many continue to harbour the ignorance and fear rooted in the 1980s and 1990s. Simon’s legacy endures as a vital insight into the lived experience of HIV/AIDS, reminding us that beyond medical breakthroughs, societal attitudes must evolve to truly support those infected and affected.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog - The Diary of Simon Daniels----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersPositively Speaking - Written by Simon Daniels / Printed Hull Daily MailBBC Panorama - Princess Diana © BBC

Simon Daniels was a young gay man diagnosed with HIV/AIDS in 1993. Prior to his diagnosis, he worked as a restaurant manager and was actively involved in acting as well as HIV/AIDS activism. In addition to these pursuits, Simon became a writer, sharing his personal experiences through his diary entries in a regular column titled Positively Speaking for the Hull Daily Mail. Simon’s candid reflections provided a powerful and intimate insight into living with the illness, raising awareness and fostering understanding during a challenging time.Thirty years on, much has changed in the science and treatment of HIV/AIDS, with advancements in medications turning what was once a fatal diagnosis into a manageable chronic condition. Despite this progress, the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS remains painfully persistent. While a growing number of people have become educated about the virus, many continue to harbour the ignorance and fear rooted in the 1980s and 1990s. Simon’s legacy endures as a vital insight into the lived experience of HIV/AIDS, reminding us that beyond medical breakthroughs, societal attitudes must evolve to truly support those infected and affected.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog - The Diary of Simon Daniels----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersPositively Speaking - Written by Simon Daniels / Printed Hull Daily MailEastEnders Mark Fowler HIV storyline 1995 © BBC WATCH EastEnders YouTubeBBC Panorama May 1987 'AIDS - The Fight for Control' © BBCEastEnders Michelle Fowler & Ethel 1995 © BBC YouTubeITV Coronation Street 'Bet Gilroy Leaves' 16 October 1995 © ITV YouTube

Kenny Everett was an English radio DJ and television entertainer renowned for his zany comedic style, captivating millions and becoming a national treasure. Despite his popularity, a media frenzy invaded his private life when he was compelled to publicly disclose his sexuality outside his Kensington home, famously quipping, “two husbands are better than one,” while being photographed with his two partners, Nikolai and Pepe.Subsequently, the media pressured him into revealing his HIV-positive status, which later progressed into what was then termed ‘full-blown AIDS,’ a diagnosis made just prior to the advent of antiretroviral therapies that dramatically altered the course of the disease. Throughout this ordeal, Kenny displayed remarkable determination and courage, consistently responding to intrusive questions about his health with candour and optimism. His resilience and openness have cemented his status as a significant figure and an icon.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - KENNY EVERETT----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersAudio Interviewee's 'Unforgettable Kenny Everett' © ITVAudio Interviewee's 'Kenny Everett: In the Best Possible Taste' © BBC

Terence ‘Terry’ Madeley, a London-born actor, received a positive HIV diagnosis in 1985 after long grappling with a decline in his health. Despite the inevitable challenges, Terry remained steadfast in his magnanimous relationship with his long-term partner, Peter, and vowed to outlive the AIDS virus.In February 1987, during ‘AIDS Week’ on UK television, Terry made a brave decision to disclose his condition publicly, with his mother Lil’ standing by his side. A documentary, produced in collaboration with the BBC and presenter Pattie Coldwell, was underway to tell his story. Tragically, Terry passed away before filming was completed, but the captured footage enabled the BBC and Pattie to release Remember Terry in December 1987. The documentary proved instrumental in raising awareness and fostering tolerance towards HIV/AIDS during a crucial period.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - TERRY MADELEY----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers'Remember Terry' 1987 Pattie Coldwell ©BBC - Watch on YouTube Terry Madeley personal account 'ABC of AIDS' by British Medical Journal 1987

WITHOUT PREJUDICEAs the host and producer of AIDS: The Lost Voices, I share episodes that highlight the discrimination, stigma, isolation, and vilification faced by many people living with HIV/AIDS over the decades. Despite keeping my professional life separate from my podcast, I never anticipated experiencing similar prejudice while working for the well-known pub company Fuller’s, trading as Griffin Catering Services Ltd. Unfortunately, during my employment, I was subjected to seven months of HIV/AIDS-related discrimination that violated the Equality Act 2010. Faced with no other recourse, I had no choice but to lodge a legal claim with the HM Courts and Tribunals to challenge this injustice.However, it did not end there, and I was subjected to a barrage of harassment, victimisation, and bullying, which must be presented before the court. The matter has also involved the Metropolitan Police as a hate crime. When I exercised my right to raise concerns, I was not only perceived as a biological threat but also branded a troublemaker. Subsequently, I faced some of the wildest, unfounded, and baseless allegations, all seemingly orchestrated to justify my removal and dismissal.The Judge has now ordered the hearing to be scheduled for three days in December 2026, ensuring that the matter will receive the thorough attention it warrants. It cannot be said that I am unable to share my experience and journey through such discrimination on this podcast, especially given that I have seemingly become the subject of the news rather than just a reader of it. This platform offers a crucial space to voice the realities faced, shedding light on the injustices endured and allowing a broader audience to understand the personal impact behind HIV/AIDS discrimination in the workplace.NB: Employment Tribunals are open to the public, including listings of the claimant and respondent. There is a significant public interest in this case and further is shared on channels have been established for several years to cover HIV/AIDS discrimination and is a professional account and not a personal one. This should not be deemed malicious nor vexatious, just an exercise of my right to share and impart public information within the public interest as part of my basic, legal and human right.

As an artist, performer, model, TV personality, club promoter, fashion designer, and musician, Leigh Bowery defied conventional boundaries at every turn. Emerging from the vibrant nightlife of 1980s London, Bowery cultivated a provocative and unapologetically bold presence that spanned underground clubs, galleries, theatres, and the urban streetscape.His radical approach transformed clothing and makeup into living art forms—akin to painting and sculpture in motion—challenging and expanding traditional perceptions of aesthetics, sexuality, and gender. In a bid to solidify his legacy, Bowery devoted himself to his band Minty, which quickly became notorious for its shocking headlines and uncompromising style.However, this chapter was tragically cut short when Leigh Bowery passed away in 1994 from AIDS-related complications at London’s Middlesex Hospital, leaving behind an indelible impact on contemporary art and culture.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - LEIGH BOWERY----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITEBackground Quick Fire Questions - 'Escape' by Aries Beat LISTEN----------------------------------------------------LEIGH BOWERY LINKS -BBC The Clothes Show 1986 WATCH HERE'South of Watford' LWT/ITV Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3'Useless Man' by Minty [LIVE] clip YOU TUBELeigh Bowery at TATE Modern VIDEO & Exhibition [Ends 31 August 2025]Book: Leigh Bowery Life and Times of an Icon by Sue Tilley in all good bookshops & AMAZONThird-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast.

Holly Johnson, the charismatic lead singer of the 1980s phenomenon Frankie Goes to Hollywood, rose to fame with three consecutive number ones: "Relax," "Two Tribes," and "The Power of Love." However, the band's split in 1989 marked the beginning of a tumultuous journey for Johnson, particularly after his HIV/AIDS diagnosis in 1991.The press coverage surrounding his condition often overshadowed his remarkable musical talent, prompting Johnson to reflect on his experiences in his autobiography, ‘A Bone in my Flute.’ As he navigated his health crisis, he also embraced his roles as a songwriter, author, and artist, showcasing his work in a London gallery. With advancements in HIV treatment, Johnson has reclaimed his place in the music scene, embarking on a successful tour in 2024/25, proving that his enduring artistry continues to resonate with audiences and that you can live successfully with HIV.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - HOLLY JOHNSON----------------------------------------------------Holly Johnson LINKS:Holly Johnson Website HollyJohnson.comHolly Johnson Instagram'Relax' - Frankie Goes to Hollywood Spotify'Love Train' - Holly Johnson Spotify'Americanos' - Holly Johnson Spotify'Power of Love' - Frankie Goes to Hollywood Spotify'Legendary Children' & 'Disco Heaven' - Holly Johnson SpotifyPodcast Intro - Holly on Heart Radio Watch HereLive at the Lighthouse, Holly 'Power of Love' Watch Here----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers

Gaétan Dugas was an effervescent gay French Canadian flight attendant renowned among his colleagues for his bold declarations that he would one day become a 'star.' At the age of 32, his life was tragically cut short due to AIDS-related complications. Despite his light-hearted claims, Gaétan became posthumously infamous when, in 1987, he was exposed by author and journlaist Randy Shilts as being the individual responsible for introducing AIDS to North America, earning him the label of "patient zero."This unwarranted infamy inflicted profound pain on his family and friends, as he was denounced as a "monster" by the very media that sensationalised the story. It was not until nearly thirty years later, following significant advancements in scientific research, that studies of Gaétan's blood samples showed unequivocally that his HIV footprint was not that old, meaning other HIV strains had been in North American cities long before Gaétan had even visited them. In 2019, the film Killing Patient Zero spoke to those who knew Gaétan best, shifting the narrative from Zero to hero. Prior to that, Zero Patience, a musical film released in 1993, took a satirical approach to Randy Shilt’s claims, challenging the misconceptions surrounding Gaétan’s role in the epidemic. All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - Gaétan Dugas Patient Hero & Zero Patience----------------------------------------------------Killing Patient ZeroWritten & Directed by Laurie Lynd - Fadoo ProductionsWATCH FILM HERE (Subscription/Fee's may apply)Amazon Prime FilmApple TVSky Store----------------------------------------------------Zero Patience - Musical MovieWritten & Directed by John GreysonWATCH FILM HERE (Subscription/Fee's may apply)Archive.org (Free on a laptop/device)Amazon.com----------------------------------------------------BOOK:Patient Zero and the Making of the AIDS Epidemicby Richard A. McKayBuy on Amazon.co.uk----------------------------------------------------BOOK:AND THE BAND PLAYED ON - Politics, People and the AIDS Epidemicby Randy ShiltsBuy on Amazon.co.uk----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research of HIV/AIDS. No copyright infringement intended.

When David Carr died in 1959, medical professionals recorded an unusual immune condition on his death certificate, which was largely forgotten until 1990 when the world learned that he had supposedly been the first AIDS patient. This claim was swiftly shattered in 1995 when a team of HIV specialists in America examined Carr's tissue samples, revealing that the HIV found did not originate from him. Instead, they discovered two different strands of DNA, the isolated HIV sample aligning more closely with strains prevalent in the late 1980s and early 1990s, not 1959 when David died. As the implications of this revelation unfolded, questions emerged regarding the integrity of the original medical claims and the scientific paper submitted to The Lancet. With significant pressure mounting for transparency, the scientific community now faces a critical juncture: will the researchers acknowledge their error, retract their previous assertions, and address the consequences of misattributing Carr's legacy, or will denial pave the way for continued misinformation?All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - DAVID CARR----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers

In April 1959, David Carr, a 25-year-old man from Manchester, was admitted to Manchester Royal Infirmary with an undiagnosed illness that baffled a team of three doctors and several specialists. Over the course of his twenty-week stay, his condition deteriorated alarmingly, culminating in his death at the end of August 1959.Writing for The Lancet in October 1960, the medical team postulated that Carr's immune system had been compromised, displaying symptoms indicative of an AIDS-related illness—though this was unrecognised at the time. A post-mortem examination later revealed pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, a well-known AIDS-related complication. It wasn't until the late 1980s, with advancements in testing, that samples from Carr's case were confirmed to contain HIV, retroactively designating him as the world’s first AIDS patient.However, despite the symptoms he displayed, the tests seemed not to be all that they were claimed to be, raising suspicions among medical professionals. It took a professor and his team in the United States to raise the alarm, ultimately determining that there was no clinical evidence to support the assertion that David Carr was or had been infected with HIV/AIDS.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - DAVID CARR----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers

Those affected or infected with HIV/AIDS have often faced ostracism from friends, family, and workplaces, casting a shadow over their already challenging circumstances. The experiences of four men—Andrew Peters, Michael Buck, Andrew Fay, and David Morgan—highlight the grim realities of discrimination during the height of the AIDS crisis. Peters was dismissed from his position as a restaurant manager simply for allowing a television crew to film a segment in his establishment, aiming to raise awareness about the pandemic. Buck, a cinema projectionist with 17 years of service, was let go solely due to his sexual orientation, as his colleagues and employer unfoundedly feared he might be HIV positive.Fay, employed by London Lighthouse, faced similar repercussions as he was fired for struggling to meet work demands after his AIDS diagnosis. Lastly, Morgan was dismissed for being “overtly” gay, with his employer even disclosing his HIV status. In the face of adversity, all four men took courageous steps to challenge their employers legally, confronting the pervasive fear and prejudice surrounding HIV/AIDS.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - EMPLOYMENT CLAIMS----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / NewspapersAudio Clip: Soho Brasserie on AIDS ©Thames Television 'AIDS The Last Chance'Audio Clip: 1987 UK Government AIDS Monolith TV AdvertAudio Clip: The London Lighthouse AIDS Hospice © Thames Television NewsAudio Clip: 1986 Gay Rights Protest Haringey Council © Thames Television News

Todd Shuttleworth, at the age of 31, faced life-altering news when he was diagnosed with AIDS in June 1984, a devastating revelation that led to his employer, in Broward County, Florida, discovering his condition and subsequently terminating his position as a Budget Analyst.Todd became one of the first individuals in the United States to take legal action against the county for wrongful dismissal, marking the beginning of a protracted legal battle that paralleled his personal struggle with the illness.As he sought treatment in San Francisco, Todd's journey became emblematic of a broader fight for rights and recognition amidst the stigma surrounding AIDS, showcasing his resilience in the face of both societal and institutional challenges. Through the tumultuous years that followed, his determination to advocate for justice reflected a deeper commitment to not only his own health but also to the welfare of others facing similar battles.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - TODD SHUTTLEWORTH----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers

In the 1980s, society grappled with the grim reality of the AIDS epidemic, but it was the subsequent emergence of 'AIPS' —AIDS Induced Panic Syndrome— that reshaped the public narrative. While AIDS was a tangible threat, the hysteria of AIPS often overshadowed the actual disease, leading to an array of absurd stories that could easily be deemed laughable, such as the belief you could catch AIDS through sharing a swimming pool.Conversely, the darker side of AIPS manifested in horrifying incidents where innocent individuals, often misidentified as carriers of the virus, faced brutal physical and verbal abuse, reinforcing the devastating impact of ignorance and fear. This duality of response—ranging from the ludicrous to the tragic—illustrates the potent mix of anxiety and misinformation that characterised the era, making it a pivotal moment in the history of public health.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog AIDS: THE LOST VOICES - AIDS v AIPS----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers

Episode 4 of 4Dave Patridge was 31 when he received the diagnosis of AIDS in the summer of 1987, a time when fear and misinformation surrounded the disease. Originating from Illinois, he courageously chronicled his journey through illness in a diary, which he shared with the Herald & Review newspaper under the pseudonym ‘Jacob’, inspired by the character from La Cage Aux Folles.His poignant reflections resonated with the Decatur community, with the odd objection, providing insight into the struggles and realities faced by those living with AIDS. Nearly four decades later, as someone living with HIV, I feel it is essential to amplify Dave's voice and preserve his legacy. By sharing his words, I aim to ensure that his experiences and messages continue to inform and inspire, honouring the journey he navigated with resilience, integrity and humour.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog - The Diary of Dave Patridge----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -Diary [Jacobs Journal] Written by Dave Alan PatridgeHerald & Review - Decatur, Illinois / Archive Newspapers.com'I'd Give a Million Tomorrows' - by Billy Vaughn LISTEN HERE'I'd Give a Million Tomorrows' Piano - by Patricia Walter LISTEN HERE'American Love' - by Rose Laurens LISTEN HEREThere has been no financial nor commercial gain from this episode.

Episode 3 of 4Dave Patridge was 31 when he received the diagnosis of AIDS in the summer of 1987, a time when fear and misinformation surrounded the disease. Originating from Illinois, he courageously chronicled his journey through illness in a diary, which he shared with the Herald & Review newspaper under the pseudonym ‘Jacob’, inspired by the character from La Cage Aux Folles.His poignant reflections resonated with the Decatur community, with the odd objection, providing insight into the struggles and realities faced by those living with AIDS. Nearly four decades later, as someone living with HIV, I feel it is essential to amplify Dave's voice and preserve his legacy. By sharing his words, I aim to ensure that his experiences and messages continue to inform and inspire, honouring the journey he navigated with resilience, integrity and humour.All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:XTRA Tea Blog - The Diary of Dave Patridge----------------------------------------------------Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE----------------------------------------------------Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS, featured in this podcast. No copyright infringement intended -Diary [Jacobs Journal] Written by Dave Alan PatridgeHerald & Review - Decatur, Illinois / Archive Newspapers.comThere has been no financial nor commercial gain from this episode.