Dearest Jen & Jeanette,
I think it is important for me to identify myself before I go on with this long-winded comment. Often one would expect this to come from a gay man, however I am a gay woman, living in NYC at the time of the outbreak of the "gay cancer". I saw your profile piece on logo and felt compelled to contact you.
My heart breaks and is flooded with so many memories and faces of friends, a lover, and a child whom I've cared for and/or put to rest because of this horrific epidemic. It's odd the way you get to a point where you don't fear it anymore, you wait. Then the waiting turns to speaking out, contributing, cradling, easing emotional and spiritual pain because the body has become too numb , calming the fear of one who will be gone too young, and finally finding the unbearable strength to look into their eyes and say, " I love you, it's okay, you can go...it's alright." It's the first time you really concede defeat to their death sentence...the silence is broken, the burden heavier than ever, and you go back to waiting...hopefully through all of this sadness and pain, however, you are able to bring some joy and comfort...you become their earthly light. With all they've faced, their ability to make peace with themselves and the world, I find amazing, inspirational... profound. Bitterness turns into this wonderful, optomistic dream...they end up cradling YOU and prepare YOU for their journey. The emptiness of their departure is a pain that is all encompassing. The only comfort is knowing they will no longer suffer the anguish of pain, fear, humility, embarassment, self-loathing, harassment, and loss. As much as I have despised the outbreak of HIV/AIDS, because of it, I have had the opportunity to experience what the true meaning of love is.
It is unconditional in every way. I do not embrace this dark cloud, but if there is a silver lining...that's it.
Concerning "Gail's House", I am a decorative artist and have had some experience with creating a "green" living environment. Through trial and error with my own home, I have learned a great deal about wells, solar heating, return-flow systems, septic system alternatives, green roofing,etc. Please feel free to contact me if you think you could use my help.
Thank you for all you do and for allowing me to speak out.
Most gratefully,
Dame
 

Hi Jen & Jeanette,

It was great meeting you all a couple of weeks ago in Bend,OR while visiting my sister, Claire. Honestly, I was nervous, scared and envious of my sister when she told our family she was going to Africa. After talking with you all I am no longer nervous or scared for her safety and no longer envious now that I know we can all come help! Thank you for allowing her/ us this opportunity and I personally look forward to helping you all any way that I can. Keep up the great work!

Kindest regards,
Katie Triplett
ktnraleigh@hotmail.com