Memories of life before ARV access.

Edward Ssemakula of Uganda carries his before picture nearly everywhere he goes. Taken prior to beginning antiretrovirals in December 2002 the photograph depicts eyes drained of emotion and Ssemukulas formerly gaunt and emaciated body. At the time his CD4 count — the prime measure of the strength of his immune system — had plummeted to the frighteningly low level of 45. Although he looks far more robust these days now that hes on antiretrovirals Ssemakula keeps his before picture close at hand. Remembering how sick he once was helps empower him in his ongoing work as a volunteer at The AIDS Support Organizations (TASO) headquarters at Mulago Hospital in Kampala Uganda because he is among a very small handful with access to treatment. (excerpt)