HIV/AIDS LONG-TERM SURVIVOR * YOUTH EDUCATION * ADVOCACY * ACTIVISM * RESOURCES
I was five years old when I first saw my dad’s tattoo—a bulldog on his forearm. That image stuck with me, and from that moment, I knew I wanted ink of my own someday. What I didn’t know was how deeply tattoos would become woven into my identity, my survival, and my story.
For years, people told me to stop getting them, warning me that I’d never be invited into “polite society.” My mom, who was Jewish, told me as a kid that if I got tattooed, I couldn’t be buried in a Jewish cemetery. But life had other plans for me. And, as my wife so bluntly pointed out when I hesitated on my first tattoo, I wasn’t exactly following Jewish traditions anyway. That first piece—a small eagle—happened in the ‘90s at Sunset Strip Tattoo in Los Angeles. I was riding my orcycle down Sunset Boulevard, my wife on the back, when I casually mentioned wanting a tattoo. She challenged me on why I hadn’t gotten one yet. After a quick reality check, I turned the bike around, parked it in front of the shop, and never looked back.
Tattoos became my armor, my battle scars, my living tribute to survival. At one point, I got a tattoo for each year I survived living with HIV/AIDS. Some pieces represent friends and family I’ve lost, including my beloved mom, whose angel wings now rest on my forearm. But no tattoo carries more weight—physically or emotionally—than the red ribbon on my stomach with the words Never Forget above it. Done for the 25th anniversary of HIV/AIDS, it honors the countless friends I’ve lost to the disease. The pain of that tattoo was unlike anything I’d experienced, but in many ways, it felt fitting—because the grief, the fight, and the memories are etched just as deeply into my soul. My full sleeves, phoenix back piece, chest plates—all of it—are more than ink on skin. They are a testament to resilience, to the fight, to life itself.
And the experience of getting them? I loved every second in the chair. The hum of the machine, the burn of the needle—it was a sensation that reminded me I was alive. I always disclosed my status to every artist, and that openness only deepened the connection. Those moments became more than just a transaction; they became meaningful experiences, conversations about strength, survival, and what it truly means to keep moving forward.
I used to jokingly call myself the “tattooed Jew,” but today, as a Christian, my ink holds no barriers—only stories. And every line, every shade, every drop of ink tells one: I am here. I am still standing. And I will never stop fighting.
deNever sun
To be continued...
~ Bob Bowers
You have, like the phoenix, risen from the ashes through your own determination and will. Remember that what has risen from the ashes is not a toad or mole, or skunk or weak lil' worm but a beautiful strong soaring phoenix that has spread his wings over and around us. So, soar on, my friend, and enjoy the wind in your face and the warmth of your friends and the beauty of your accomplishments.
Hugs forever,
Rebecca
"I can't even begin to put to words what it is like to be on the other side of the camera when someone you have grown to love and care about is puking for 40minutes straight and you can't put the camera down to rub their back or get them water...
Bob knew I had fought my own mental, emotional and physical war so he trusted me and he let me in...
I have grown as a human being in ways I could have never imagined in the last three years. My heart and soul have been ripped wide open and I am so grateful to Bowers for teaching me so much.
I hope this documentary film will not only educate but also inspire people around the world to look openly at whatever challenges they face and to appreciate every day-for life is a gift."
- Dr. Leanne Whitney
Hello Bob!
It's truly an honor and blessing to meet you! I'm completely impressed with your boldness in your approach to help fight HIV/AIDS. I watched your video 'The Fire Within' and was very impressed with your level of honesty.
I've been HIV positive for 11 years now. I feel I've found some peace throughout the years but I can tell you honestly, I still have to deal with the 'stigma' that this disease has perpetrated on people who are infected.
Watching you move and reading your site has given me some strength and hope back that I feel I have somehow lost in my battle with my own personal fight and struggle with HIV/AIDS. It's a hard road my friend. But people like you make all the difference when it comes to education, learning and most of all 'HOPE.'
May you have a blessed day and week my friend.
Truly,
~P H O E N I X
Together, we can create a future free from AIDS.
I’m not just a long-term survivor—I’m a warrior, an advocate, and a witness to history. I’ve seen the worst of this epidemic, but I’ve also seen the best of humanity. And as long as I have breath, I’ll keep fighting for a world where no one has to face HIV alone.
I just wanted to say thank you SO MUCH for taking the time out of your busy schedule to come & visit me on Saturday. I'm so glad the weather was nice, and I had SUCH a great time. I had forgotten what a playful and fun person you are. We used to have so much fun in the WOW class with you, I remember being so bummed when you left. But I'm really glad that we have stayed in touch and I'm even more thrilled that things are going well for you, and you're feeling good. Y'know, I had wanted to tell you this before, but we were gabbing about so many things. Have you ever heard that country song by Tim McGraw, where he sings about being diagnosed with cancer, and how that prompted him to 'live' more? Do you know that song? It reminds me of you every time I hear it. You are the epitome of the chorus he sings "I went skydiving, I went Rocky Mountain climbing, I went 6.2 on a bull named Fu Man Chu............. I hope someday you get the chance to live like you were dying." Did he ever meet you? I think he wrote that song for you. = )
You are a reminder to everyone you meet how precious and tenuous every day we have on earth. Your energy, enthusiasm, and positivity are truly contagious. I wish there were more people in the world with a heart as big as yours. You really are an amazing person, and I am so blessed to know you and call you friend.
Love & Peace,
Heather
HIVictorious, Inc.
Your compassion and support mean the world to me. This website is a testament to hope, resilience, and the lives lost to HIV/AIDS. As a long-term survivor, I've dedicated my life to combating this disease, educating youth, and empowering others. I've witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of HIV, and I'm committed to breaking down barriers like stigma, poverty, and discrimination.
Together, we can create a future free from AIDS.
I have been living with HIV/AIDS for 41 years. In 1983, I was infected from sharing a syringe to inject crystal meth and was launched into a reality I never would have dreamed of. In 1984 I was told I had cancer or 'this thing called AIDS' and to prepare for the worst.I am serious about prevention, education, reducing stigma, raising awareness and funds in the fight against AIDS in the United States and beyond. I speak passionately about the disregard we too often have for our most marginalized youth and adults and the dire need to address issues such as racism, homophobia, addiction and poverty. It is imperative that we quit ignoring the pink elephant and fight for a more united, empowered and enlightened society regardless of AIDS. Near the end of my 11-year marriage, and the loss of my best man, I committed my time and energy to making a lasting impact in this fight and sharing my life story through my words as well - as a feature length documentary, The Fire Within. In 2005 I founded the nonprofit educational organization, HIVictorious, Inc. I am wholeheartedly committed to not sugar coating the harsh realities of this pandemic, speaking truth to power and kicking some serious HIV ass. (and having a good time doing it!) In doing so, I also honor the memories and courage of my dozens of friends from all walks of life who were taken from us far too early. It is to you my friends who have passed, and to the courageous souls surviving and thriving with this disease, that I will never ever surrender in this fight! I bow to you, as well as my countless friends, and to my family for your unconditional love and support throughout these many years! It was surreal beyond all comprehension to have celebrated my 61st birthday this year! Compassion is our cure!
To know a real-live hero is an awesome responsibility...a bit like knowing an angel, This is what you are for so many people...the lives you touch are forever changed. You plant the most important seed in the minds of young and and old...this too can happen to you! We love you and cherish you. Take care and you will always be 'Our Pirate"
~ Marty Bell
The Fire Within is a compelling feature-length documentary film chronicling a year in the life of long-term AIDS survivor Bob Bowers. Bob was infected with HIV in 1983.
Your connection happens with so many kids as you make it REAL while you speak your truth and tell your story with words they hear. You are truly an old soul with much wisdom and a big heart! Thanks for doing what you do and making it electric!
~Andrea
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Bob Bowers aka One Tough Pirate
www.onetoughpirate.com
Houston, Texas - All Rights Reserved.
Website last updated on March 27, 2025
End HIV/AIDS! Never surrender! Never forget!
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