Tom Antonik, 63: Conversations About Aging

Catching Your Memories

The first documented case of AIDS was reported in Los Angeles, California in 1981. Back then, someone who was newly diagnosed might not survive even a few months. New medications were developed in the 90s that helped slow the progression of the disease but did not offer a cure. Today, another generation of medications called antiretrovirals has led to a dramatic decline in the number of people who are dying of AIDS. Or put another way, a dramatic increase in the number of people who are living longer healthier lives. Tom Antonik is one of those people. In 1986, Tom found out he was HIV positive. A year later he was diagnosed with AIDS. He thought it was a death sentence, for sure. But here he is 33 years later at the age of 63, still alive and doing well. I interviewed Tom many times back in the 80s and 90s. He wanted to make a difference, to help break the stigma against people living with HIV/AIDS. He is still trying to make a difference.