As we mark National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day (September 18), the Elton John AIDS Foundation is reflecting on the inspiring journey of individuals like Nathan, who are not only aging with HIV, but thriving despite their diagnosis.
In collaboration with the University of Houston, a partner of the Elton John AIDS Foundation, Nathan advises on the development of a trauma-informed care curriculum that we are funding and represents those living with HIV to ensure that the voices of the community are heard and prioritized for future trainings.
The SUSTAIN group, part of the Graduate College of Social Work at the University of Houston.
“So many funders focus on HIV testing. But we living with HIV are so much more than that,” said Nathan. Together, we are working to create spaces that lead with support and compassion, recognizing the whole person and their unique journey.
Nathan’s Journey: A Long-Term HIV Survivor
Nathan has lived with HIV for 24 years, and his experience has fueled a deep passion for empowering others who share his journey. As an active member of the Collective for Community Action, Nathan works tirelessly to uplift and advocate for those living with HIV.
“The word ‘queer’ when I was growing up was predominantly negative. We use it now to take that power and redefine it,” Nathan shares. This statement reflects his dedication to reclaiming narratives and challenging the status quo. His passion for being a “disruptor” drives him to enter spaces and question the systems in place. “That can seem negative, but it’s about going into spaces and saying, ‘this is not working – why are we not trying something different?’ It’s about being part of a system that takes a chance.”
As a long-term survivor, Nathan is now grappling with new challenges, including the complexities of aging with HIV. “I have to look at new terms like ‘long-term survivor’ – what does that mean and what does that look like for me as someone who never prepared a 401K plan because I didn’t think I’d be here?”
Nathan’s experience highlights a common reality for many long-term survivors who, after experiencing the early days of the AIDS epidemic, never expected to live into older age and now face the challenges of aging without the same financial and social security nets as others.
Nathan’s story also emphasizes the importance of intergenerational support within the HIV community. “My nephew who is 22 when he turned 18 and found he is living with HIV. I need to make sure he knows he’s going to be okay, and that he and others in the community know what HIV looks like today and what support is out there,” Nathan shares. “He can look at life in a new way than I did. It’s totally different now.”
The Future of HIV
Nathan’s story is one of courage and transformation, reminding us all that aging with HIV is about much more than survival—it’s about thriving, advocating, and paving the way for future generations to live with dignity and hope.
The work we are funding with the University of Houston is part of our broader efforts to ensure that people living with HIV are not defined by their diagnosis but are empowered to live full, authentic lives.
