VANCOUVER- Frederick Williams witnessed the worst of the AIDS crisis.
Diagnosed with HIV 33 years ago, Williams survived and went on to become a chef and then a harm-reduction workshop leader. But most of his friends weren’t so lucky, and they died from AIDS-related illnesses.
“I’ve gone through waves of friends,” the 55-year-old said. “In the 80s I lost all of my friends and then in the 90s I lost all of my friends again.”
On a Wednesday morning in July, Williams came to the Dr. Peter Centre for breakfast, like he does most days. He also brought his laundry from home and put it in the washing machine.
By day, the centre is a bustling hub for those living with HIV, and it provides free meals, counselling, massage therapy, a living room, music lessons and more.