Three Decades of Dedication: A Social Worker’s Memoir on HIV/AIDS
It is with deep gratitude that I share with you today my 30 years of service as a caregiver then a social worker to the residents and tenants of Maison d’Hérelle.
I was confronted with the full force of AIDS from day one. And it was while coping with so much suffering that I became determined that Maison d’Hérelle would be the benchmark for support and housing.
My first memory is of Jean sitting on the toilet, unable to lift his bony frame. He was crying and I was speechless. I realized that silence is sometimes our only ally in the face of the unfortunate fate of others. But despite the deep sadness I felt at being surrounded by this immense tragedy, I found my work exciting, enviable, and satisfying.
Later, I became involved in the new Satellite and Studios projects. These facilities were for people whose health was improving after the arrival of the new HIV antiviral drugs.
Recently, I also helped to implement “3738”. This d’Hérelle initiative was designed to meet the needs of aging people with HIV. I had to adapt to the special challenges these people face, such as premature aging and treatment-related complications.
Over the years, I’ve come to realize that having a roof over one’s head is essential to the well-being and support of physically and psychologically fragile individuals. That is why, as a member of the “Montréal without AIDS” committee, I am now actively defending the right to adapted housing.
Although Maison d’Hérelle has come a long way in the last 30 years, the work must continue, because HIV/AIDS is still very much with us.
I wish you all the love and peace you desire.
Sincerely,
Michel Richard – Social Worker