In 1985, four men, Adam Szczotko, Andrew Blyth, Bil Ayres, and Jo Walker each spoke on prime time television about their HIV diagnosis and the stigma around it. Speaking publicly challenged misinformation and societal backlash, humanising the struggles of those with HIV and promoting awareness and compassion. Their courage remains crucial in the fight against stigma and in advocating for the rights and respect of those affected by HIV/AIDS, even four decades on.

This is their story, their voices, in their own words.

All articles and relevant documents from this episode are available on the:

XTRA Tea Blog - IN THEIR OWN WORDS

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Music / Instrumental by Aries Beats 'A Sin' + WEBSITE

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Third-party media: Used under 'fair use' for the sole purpose of education, criticism and/or research relating to HIV/AIDS. No copyright infringement intended -

• British Newspaper Archives / Newspapers
• TV Eye ' AIDS - The Victims' 1985 ©Thames TV. Watch Full Episode HERE
• Daytime (Sarah Kennedy) 1985 ©Thames TV
• Panorama 'AIDS The Race for a Cure' 1985 ©BBC. Watch Full Episode HERE