HIV/AIDS LONG-TERM SURVIVOR * YOUTH EDUCATION * ADVOCACY * ACTIVISM * RESOURCES
Houston, Texas - United States
Photos of Bob Bowers - HIV long-term survivor from 1980s
Everything is going to be ok
Over time, I discovered other ways to communicate, ways that didn’t rely on just my voice. My tattoos, my humor, my art, my website—these became part of the toolkit I used to connect, to make people listen, to cut through the noise. Despite the lingering self-doubt, I’ve come to realize that my voice—however imperfect—isn’t only mine. It’s a voice for everyone who has ever felt unheard, unseen, or unworthy. It’s for the kid who thinks they’ll never measure up, the newly diagnosed who feels their world is ending, and for anyone still searching for a spark of hope.
So yeah, at nearly 62 my voice still quivers sometimes. But that’s never stopped me before.
And it sure as hell won’t now.
Long-term HIV/AIDS survivor Bob Bowers
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Dearest Bob, I wanted to let you know how honored I am to have met you, and am continually inspired, with every moment, by your strength, passion, sincerity, kindness, and positive outlook on all things. For living your truth, with compassion, and a raised fist. You're amazing. Namaste, Vicki
Aging and thriving with hiv/Aids
What Are the Odds? – Playing the Hand You're Dealt
There was a time when I would have bet every cent I had on being just another statistic—someone whose name would be spoken in hushed tones, if at all. Another story of someone who didn’t make it. Yet, here I am, still standing, and every day feels like I’ve outplayed the odds.
In 2004, I found myself speaking to a room full of medical students at the University of Wisconsin. I was nervous, as usual, especially since I hadn’t done many university presentations at that point in my years of advocacy. But this wasn’t just a job or another presentation on HIV/AIDS—it was about being of service, about pouring my heart and soul into everything I did.
To break the ice with these bright future doctors, I tossed out one of my “I hope I make you think” moments. With a smirk, I said, “In 1984, when I was diagnosed, if you put Bob Bowers, JFK Jr., and Princess Diana into a pool as to who would have survived (then 20 years later), I definitely would’ve put my money on the Princess, not my sorry ass!”
The laughter was loud and real, and the message landed with impact: life’s unpredictable, and none of us knows exactly how long we have.
Never surrender! Never forget!
What an honor and blessing it is to be growing older and continuing to live and thrive with HIV/AIDS.
You are one great guy! Showing the world that there is no difference to live like the next guy. I am glad I found your profiles. Thanks Bob you are the rain in the arid desert world of AIDS. RIGHT ON ONE TOUGH PIRATE!
Thanks, Lydia
Exercise/workout with hiv/aids - Movement is medicine!
Yes, you can exercise while living with HIV/AIDS
Yes, you can exercise while living with HIV/AIDS
Yes, you can exercise while living with HIV/AIDS
In 2021, I was 260 pounds, barely mobile, and barely holding on. My health was in freefall, and my reflection in the mirror looked like a ghost of who I once was. I honestly thought, “Maybe this is just what it looks like in your late 50s with HIV, heart disease, and decades of wear and tear.” After all, my dad died at 59. I was genuinely 'prepared' and had even saved some of my stimulus money for my cremation. But something inside me still had fight. So, with help—my staff, my service dog, and a whole lot of prayer—I got up. Again... Click to read more about HIV/AIDS and exercise.
Staying fit while living with HIV/AIDS
Yes, you can exercise while living with HIV/AIDS
Yes, you can exercise while living with HIV/AIDS
Exercise and fitness with HIV/AIDS is more than muscle. It’s medicine. It’s faith. It’s proof that no matter how many times you fall, you can rise again.
Survive and Thrive!
Got ink?
The Fire Within Documentary
Never ever forget!
" 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."
Never ever forget!
The Fire Within Documentary
Never ever forget!
The AIDS Memorial Quilt is a massive, ongoing community arts project created to memorialize and celebrate the lives of people lost to the AIDS pandemic. Weighing 54 tons and composed of more than 50,000 individual panels, it is the largest piece of community folk art in the world.
The Fire Within Documentary
The Fire Within Documentary
The Fire Within Documentary
Mr Bowers. I have recently viewed your documentary film, "The Fire Within". I was moved beyond words. I met you about 5 years ago at San Diego State University and was challenged and humbled by your life. I live my life in the moment and often your powerful existence reminds me not to sweat the small stuff. Thank you for all of your work and guidance. You are truly my inspiration.
