Jeremy’s Red Run: raising funds and fighting HIV stigma

Jeremy, an osteopath at the Royal Free Hospital, is preparing to take part in the annual Red Run fundraising event for the second time this year to raise awareness and funds for HIV and AIDS. 

The event is especially meaningful for him, as he has firsthand experiences of the HIV and AIDS epidemic. Growing up in New York in the 1980s, he witnessed the devastation of HIV as it ravaged communities and stigmatised the LGBTQ+ population.

“I’m a gay man myself, and I grew up in New York in the ​‘80s,” Jeremy recalls. ​“It was a difficult time. HIV and AIDS exploded overnight, and suddenly, the gay community was in the midst of a public health crisis. People were losing their lives, and the stigma surrounding HIV was immense. It wasn’t like today, where being openly gay is more accepted. Back then, many kept their sexuality hidden.”

Jeremy saw the devastating effects of HIV, both within his own community and his family. His mother, and her circle of friends, lost several of them to the disease. 

These experiences led Jeremy to pursue a career in osteopathy. ​“When I trained as an osteopath, my goal was to help people living with HIV. They need physical therapy and pain management, especially dealing with the side effects of medications. Being able to give back to my community in this way means a lot to me.”

The Red Run brings together the HIV sector to raise awareness and funds for HIV support and prevention projects. But it’s more than just a race: it’s a celebration of community. Unlike larger events, the Red Run offers a more relaxed atmosphere, where participants of all ages and abilities can walk, run or simply show their support.

Jeremy is running for the Royal Free Charity to support the Ian Charleson Day Centre at the Royal Free Hospital, which provides world-class care for those living with HIV and AIDS. ​“It’s about being there, raising awareness, raising some money, and just being with others who support the cause,” he explains. ​“You don’t have to run the full 10K. You can walk, run a shorter distance, and there’s no pressure to finish in record time. It’s more about showing up, showing support and having fun. It’s a celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, especially as we’ve come so far from the stigma that once existed.”

For Jeremy, running is also a form of meditation. ​“I started running during Covid because it was one of the only ways to get out of the house. I went from not running at all to running half marathons within a year. It’s a great way to stay fit and clear my head. I listen to music and stay mindful.”

The Red Run also provides an opportunity to continue the conversation about HIV. Despite advances in treatment, stigma still persists. ​“There are still misconceptions about how HIV is transmitted,” he says. ​“People don’t always realise that if someone is undetectable, they can’t pass the virus on. That’s why it’s crucial to keep raising awareness.”

As World AIDS Day approaches on 1 December, it’s a reminder of the ongoing need for awareness and support. The Red Run is more than just a race, it’s a chance to come together, celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, and continue the fight for HIV awareness and support.