December 1st marks International AIDS Day, a time for reflection, remembrance, and gratitude. For those of us who lived through the 1980s, it is a day filled with powerful emotions. During that period, the world lost so many talented and vibrant people to this devastating disease. As someone who was living in Texas and working with the Houston Ballet, I witnessed this tragedy unfold up close. It wasn’t just the dancers we lost, but also musicians, teaching staff, and members of the administrative team. Funerals became a regular occurrence, sometimes it felt as though we were attending one every month.
The impact on the arts community was profound, and it left an indelible mark on those of us who remained. For me, one of the most moving experiences was teaching Pilates in a hospice for AIDS patients. Despite facing an unimaginable future, these men showed incredible resilience and spirit. They found joy and relief in movement, and Pilates became something truly meaningful to them. It wasn’t just exercise; it was a moment to feel good in their bodies, even amidst such challenging circumstances. The strength and courage they showed in those sessions was both humbling and inspiring.
Today, we are fortunate to have advancements in medical science that extend life and provide support for those living with HIV and AIDS. Preventative measures have also made a significant difference. But it is essential to take a moment to remember those we lost, not just in Houston, but across the world. The memory of their talent, creativity, and humanity should never fade.
It is also a day to honour those who stepped forward when others would not. The lesbian community, in particular, played a crucial role during the early days of the epidemic. At a time when fear and misinformation gripped the medical world, it was often lesbian nurses who bravely cared for those suffering from the disease. Their courage and compassion deserve our deepest respect.
For Pilates teachers, there is a lesson in this history about the importance of creating a space where everyone feels seen, respected, and supported. The sessions I taught in the hospice taught me that movement is about more than physical fitness; it is about connection, dignity, and hope. On days like today, we can reflect on the role we play in fostering these qualities in our clients' lives.
As we remember those we lost, let us also honour the progress made and the communities who fought for change. Pilates, in its essence, is about resilience and balance. On this International AIDS Day, may we carry those qualities forward with gratitude and love.
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