The Editor, Sir:

The activities for the past few weeks have been note-worthy in many ways. The people did not give the former Prime Minister her "mandate" and the one who left for the wilderness, returning as the prodigal son is now Jamaica's eighth Prime Minister.

But when all the euphoria vanishes, what we are left with is the realism of the country in which we live. The reality which I would like to highlight to your readers is the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

I am aware that this topic is discussed preferably in hushed tones, behind closed doors. However, if we are to stem the spread of this disease, we need to get rid of the 'Ostrich Syndrome'.

Reality check: A recent report stated that the Caribbean has the highest HIV prevalence, outside sub-Saharan Africa, and Jamaica's prevalence is 1.5 per cent and increasing. It also states that about two-thirds of all HIV-positive people in the country are unaware of their status.

Reality check: HIV/AIDS is the second leading cause of death for children in the 1-4 age groups.

In reading this letter your readers may have a misconception about the source of my passion for this subject. So let me clarify. I am a member of the Caribbean District of Optimist International, an organisation whose passion is children and we strive to "bring out the best" in them.

My club, Sunset Optimist of Kingston, driven by this passion, developed an awareness programme, which was dubbed 'Journey to Awareness'.

This "Journey" highlighted for us that even though the country has come a far way in its awareness, there is even a longer road ahead. As a part of the programme, we approached organisations to host a HIV/AIDS End Discrimination Banner, with eight messages of acceptance, which were child-friendly. It is no surprise to know that only a few accepted. It became apparent that HIV/AIDS was still being classified as "Ah fi dem disease dat".

Reality check: HIV/AIDS can affect you, whether you are straight, lean or square; whether you live uptown, downtown or around town.

It is time for us to, as the young people would say, "check yourself". HIV/AIDS can affect or infect you or someone you know.

I am, etc.,

LORNA GOODEN

lgooden@cwjamaica.com