Candlelight Memorial for HIV Patients at Ken Combs Pier

South Mississippi AIDS Task Force hosted a candlelight memorial earlier this evening to honor those living with HIV and those who have died from the disease.

The event was held at the Ken Combs Pier as people recognized HIV Long term Survivors Awareness Day. Everyone was able to light a candle in honor of someone who has HIV, someone who died from the disease, and those who provide support to people with HIV.

Deborah Aiken with South Mississippi AIDS Task Force say this vigil is reminder that HIV doesn’t discriminate. “Lowest case diagnosed that we know of was 13-years-old and the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the six Coastal counties, they are number three in the state for new HIV diagnoses. So, we need to get this out to our community. Testing is the best thing you could do.”

South Mississippi AIDS Task Force offers housing, a food pantry, and testing services. You can get in contact with them at 228-207-0801.