" I tested positive for HIV 1986. I believe I was infected two years prior to that, so I have been 'living with HIV' for at least 15 years. Four years ago, a.k.a. the ninth year of my death sentence, I finally allowed myself to recognize an undeniable fact of my own life. Without any medical intervention, including 'antiretroviral' medication, I was neither a) sick nor b) dead.

" My path has taken me from a firm belief that HIV causes AIDS, to believing the immune system could be enhanced with nontoxic alternatives to antiretrovirals, to questioning whether HIV causes AIDS. This progression in thinking about HIV/AIDS is a direct result of my own personal experience. I understand that the notion that HIV might not cause AIDS is upsetting for many. I'm not raising the question merely to be provocative. The possibility that a horrendous mistake has been made is disturbing to me.

" What's really ironic is that my story is a positive one though I'm almost ashamed to admit it. Is it the last taboo: discussing your non-death from AIDS? But I can't resist, I have to say it. These past four years, once I learned to let go of the fear, have been the most positive, life-affirming years of my life.

" As they say at Alive & Well: 'Relax, it's only information.' There is another side to the HIV/AIDS story. I think everybody with HIV or AIDS should be allowed to hear about it and make an informed decision for him or herself. A little free speech, open debate, and civil discourse never hurt anybody. To all doubters, I say take a deep breath, open your mind, and read."

David