I have been slightly more computer-bound in the past days due to work than usual, although the benefits of working at home are to be able to whip up a gingerbread doe, do some grocery shopping and hang up the washing in between, and not have these tasks pile up for when the kids are home or when I want to relax once they're in bed. I'm not usually a huge consumer of computer news (I prefer a good old-fashioned newspaper most days), but as I have had some time while waiting for feedback on my work, I have used this time to swim around in the world of HIV/AIDS in preparation for my interview (Monday), and out of general interest (Note: swim, not sink!).
It has been an overwhelming experience. Not only is there an overload of information being published and broadcasted on the topic prior to World AIDS Day (tomorrow, 1 December), but it is at a time that tries to emotionalize between the "thanks" of thanksgiving and "giving" of Christmas. And it works, at least for me. The numbers are so abstract, so incomprehensible. But the story told e.g. by the South-African "ambassador" of the Elizabeth Glazer Foundation (which aims to eradicate mother-to-child HIV transmission, and at which I'm awfully proud to have a friend working) moved me to tears. A story about a life being HIV+, and losing a daughter and husband to the disease due to unavailable treatment at the time. But a story of hope, as she continues to live (thanks to available and affordable treatment), and has remarried and had two HIV- sons. (On the side, I am increasingly becoming a huge fan of Hilary Clinton, the more I see what she does on these topics such as health and women's rights - I am lagging behind a few friends here).
Sometimes, having a few external pieces fall into place at the right time (this short work project to prepare for the UNAIDS board meeting, this upcoming interview) can be so motivating, so energizing. I hope that I have the energy, intelligence - and luck - to be able to capitalize on this moment.
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