How has your outlook changed since then?

I've got a new attitude. I don't think about death anymore. As each year goes by, and I see myself healthy, I'm more certain that I am going to be just fine. I have been deathly sick in the process, but I kept through, and it's been three years since I was really sick. Now, I look toward a healthy future.

Was there a long time between when you were diagnosed and when you sought services?

I didn't move to New York until 1992. But when I lived in Ohio, I immediately contacted an organization called the Columbus AIDS Task Force. I've been involved with AIDS organizations from the beginning, because of the simple fact that I had a need to become an activist.

Why did you feel the need to become an activist?

I was angry. I was angry because of the way some people felt about homosexuals. I also knew two very sick people, and one of them died in my arms. The rejection they faced from their families and the way they were treated made me angry. So I went on a campaign to speak against discrimination, and to make people aware of the ramifications of AIDS.

What kind of services have you used at GMHC?

I love the Meals program. I come Monday through Thursday for lunch and on Friday for dinner. It is good food, good fellowship, and there's a piano; I'm a singer and I get a chance to entertain. Through the Theatre Desk, I've gotten tickets to some plays that were absolutely outstanding. I'm currently using Legal Services for two cases that an attorney is working on. If I was out on my own, or at another organization that didn't have the means, I would probably just get a referral instead of having an attorney right here to help.

What do you do in your spare time?

I sing in the choir and I'm working on establishing a male choir. I want to get out of the choir and be a leader. I also love to design clothes; I'm a good fashion and costume designer. I like to go to the movies, and I especially like to go to parks. And I love to ride on the subway.