A group of people who have been affected by HIV and AIDS gathered inside the basement of First Lutheran Church on Franklin Square Thursday night to pay their respects to those who have passed away, and provide support for those who are still battling the disease.

 

The local activities were sponsored by the Mayor’s Task Force on AIDS. The theme of the night was ‘Stop AIDS -- Keep The Promise’.

Malanie Alvarez, said awareness is an ongoing process. "The idea is to recognize those people still living with the virus, and those who died." Alvarez said, "We don’t want people to think that this is going away. Incidences are steadily increasing here in New Britain."

City resident Petra Rivera Pittman volunteers with the Human Resources Agency of New Britain, and has dedicated herself to the cause ever since her mother passed away three years ago. A picture of Pittman’s mother was prominently displayed on the stage behind the lectern. It was marked in blue marker, "My mom lived with the virus for 13 years."

Pittman said, "I’m here in support. It’s a wonderful event."

At first glance, one would’ve thought the gathering was a party, complete with a DJ, refreshments, laughter, and children running around and playing. But that laughter soon turned to tears as the event progressed.

The Rev. Elisabeth Aurand opened the ceremony by lighting a candle for hope and peace. "We make a promise to do what we can in the struggle against AIDS and HIV."

Patsy Romano recalled when he learned he had AIDS. He urged everyone to stay encouraged. "We’re here to celebrate." He said, "I was diagnosed in 1995, and I’m still here."

But it was difficult for the crowd to keep smiling when Natasha Gonzalez started to read a timeline describing the course of AIDS. Gonzalez, clearly too emotional to continue reading, sat down. Seated in the front row, Mayor Timothy Stewart stepped forward to hand Gonzalez a handkerchief from his suit pocket.

Forest LaVallee of Newington has been living with AIDS and is passionate about AIDS education. "AIDS is a deadly disease, don’t let anyone persuade you otherwise."

The night concluded with a candlelight vigil in front of the church. Attendees held little white candles in paper cups, staning in a circle as the younger children waved silver ribbons.

Everyone was invited back inside for the reception, to enjoy the music, partake in refreshments, to view artwork, and participate in creating a craft to memorialize someone affected by HIV and AIDS.

For more information on services in New Britain for those with HIV/AIDS, contact the Human Resources Agency’s Someplace Special program at (860) 826-4741, the New Britain Health Department at (860) 612-2772 or Infoline 211 for services available statewide.

Franchone Fraser-Ben Reuben Bey can be reached at ffraser@newbritainherald.com or by calling (860) 225-4601, Ext 221.