Summary

The moving and powerful story that stunned South Africa: Edwin Cameron - the first public office holder to disclose he was living with AIDS - writes about his decision, his experience and the struggle that millions face in seeking treatment. Part memoir, part analysis, this book is a vivid exploration of what HIV/AIDS means - for Edwin Cameron as he faces the possibility of lingering death, for all of us in facing one of the foremost challenges of our time. He takes a critical look at what is different about African AIDS; at the divergent reactions of Mandela and Mbeki to the crisis; the role of pharmaceutical companies; and the impact of the activist group the Treatment Action Campaign. Cameron integrates the intensely personal with scientific research and an examination of the politics and cultural forces at play, in a touching human story which ultimately speaks of hope and possibility.