Hey Bob,

I Just Wanted 2 Send U A Quick E-Mail & Tell U That I Think Ur One Of The Strongest Ppl I've Ever Met In My Life. Like, If I Had AIDS, I Don't Think There's Any Way I'd Be Able 2 Live With It, U Know? I'd Just Be Scared. Maybe It's Because I'm "Ignorant" Because Ignorance Equals Fear But.. I Feel Like I Know Enough About The Virus But It Still Scares Me U Know? I Just Think Ur Cool As Hell 4 Bein As Real As U R. U Probably Hear That A Lot But I Mean It. I Can't Believe How Well U Deal With It.. & I Just Wanted 2 Thank U Again 4 Comin 2 Talk 2 Us.. U Gave Me A Totally Different Aspect Of The Virus.. Keep Ur Head Up

-Mia

hey bob! i just wanted let you know how amazing i think you are. you seem to have such a positive outlook on life even through all of the tough times that you have endured. listening to you speak today really opened my eyes to all of the problems that people with HIV/AIDS face in our society. hearing your story has really inspired me to do more research on AIDS and do all that i can to help out. i am going to participate in the AIDS ride this coming summer because i was so inspired by your story. i just want to thank you for sharing your story with us. it was amazing to actually put a face and a personality behind the virus. you are an extremely amazing person. god bless and keep fighting.

I cannot imagine the horrors Bob had to, and still has to go through even though he may be used to it. Bob really inspired me to do my part for the community because he is doing his...

Katie B.-9th Grade

Bob,

I only heard bits and pieces of your talk wish I would have had more time to hear everything you said. I have made many friends at "Camp Get-Away" and learning a lot more each year that they come to our camp. I am "extremely proud" to lay claim on the fact that until I started, there were a lot of unfound fears (I guess I will call them for lack of anything else). I was told numerous "horror stories" my first year there. I told them they were all scared crack pots. I didn't see anything that I was told. I do see stress, but that comes with the territory. I was accepted by a lot of the ones that were there that year. I am still friends with them and still  making more. The biggest turn-around and change in the attitude of the other staff at the camp was that I started bringing my now 51/2 yr old daughter to camp to visit with them and this year, I introduced my dog buster to the kids. I got him in feb because of neglect, etc. My boss was a little surprised that the teenagers made me a hat and I still wear it to this day. I could go on and on but I think I am most proud of changing attitudes and opinions at the camp and I truly believe that actions speak louder than words. One main staff person has agreed with me that my allowing my small child to intermingle with these kids has made all the difference in the world. Rissa (my daughter) actually looks for her "friends from Chicago" every year and remembers some of them by name. She has also been accepted and gets t-shirts from them every year. This year was exceptional!!! I am actually going to miss my doctor appointment for my 3 week x-ray on my fractured ankle because too many people were disappointed that Riss, Buster and I would be there for coffee, but had to leave at 9am for x-rays. My friends from Chicago are more important to me than any ol' ex ray (more money for the doc to tell me that things are healing fine".
You are awesome and hope to hear all of your speech sometime.

LUV YA HUNY!

Dawn Rae (Assistant Kitchen Manager at Camp Getaway and beyond)

hi,
I read your site and thought it was very strong and powerful. I loved your way & boldness in this site & just had to share it...in hopes of possibly educating some of my child's friends? I worked out in the fishing industry with a fellow that was also infected. He ran circles around the lot of us. We were long liner the old Viking way, no machines. This man would get up before all of us (usually only having 4-5 at max of sleep) And he would hide his vomiting and illness. The only reason I knew anything was that he and I had been sent to our boat prior to the crew to make the vessel ready for our contract, in that time though we had been strangers when we met. He eventually gave me his story. I never forgot him and we worked several contracts with one another, he helped me become a stronger worker to run 250% more circles around the men I had to work with. Having been the only women whom had all her teeth, he showed me the strength and courage of a thousand men and taught me how to appreciate each day and all it brought. I appreciate your fight. & I miss my friend dearly.

Thank you with much compassion to you
Antoinette..aka "Thrasher"

Bob,

You have to be one of the most amazing men. This just shows people that you can't tell from the outside someone is living with AIDS. Protect your self and others.. I love how open and honest you are about your life. And how AIDS hasn't made you lay down and die..

Bren

Hey Bob!

Want to wish you ALL THE BEST for your BIRTHDAY! Hope you're doing fine, receive a lot of presents and have a great party! Wish you nothing but the best, esp. power and strength to move on, believe in yourself and good friends to manage everything properly. Take care!

Love, Heiki

hi bob,

my name is constanze-yesterday i heard the presentation from heike about your illness, she said, you would be pleased, when somebody from our class would send you an email. but first, i have to say, that my English is not very good, i think my teacher think so, too!!! what i want to say, i find it very courageous, what you do! i hope, i won't hurt your feelings, but somebody must have very much courage to start such a campaign, like heike told us. well in Germany, we have only some actions at the first December, but that is all, too!!

yours faithfully constanze

Ahoy Bob,

On behalf of the staff and patients at Mendota, I want to thank you for taking your time to come and speak to us. Your courage, strength and honesty has left a lasting impression on many of us. You are truly "One Tough Pirate" and I wish you health and happiness in your life.

-All the Best

Patti Schaller, RN
Patient/Family Education Coord/Staff Competency
Mendota Mental Health Institute

Bob,

I wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your courage, determination, compassion, strength. I had never done a ride like this before and I know I will never do another (except act iii) like it again. I loved all your pics, when I get my web page in order, I'll pass it on to the MSN group.  Thanks so much Bob.  You are a hero!

Bonnie Clyde
aka butt balm bonnie

Hello my friend,
      It was wonderful to hear you speak yesterday, and I thought you did an amazing job. The message you spread and the reasons that you do what you do are so inspiring, and I know you made an impact on many of those students, and you always do every time I get to see you! :) I loved your analogy of the younger audience that you speak to being "your children." I feel so lucky to have met you last year at ACT II and to have continued our friendship throughout the year. Thank you so much for doing what you do, and thank you for taking the time to educate, inform, and inspire. I'll talk to you hopefully very soon.

Lots of love, Heather

I thank Bob for coming in and sharing his life with us. As he said, "it is important for people to put a face to this." I envy his ability to tell everyone he needs to, that he is HIV positive. I agree that it is an "entirely preventable virus" and everyone does have the choice to participate in harmful situations or be safe. He kept on stressing, "it's so real..."

Perri W.

Dear Bob,

Over the years in the social groups I attend to, I can say I met many a person. But not a single one of them has made me take the few moments I did out of my day and revel in your awesomeness.
And I've known some people that have had their fair share of shit happen to them. But I spent some time on your site links, and you made me not only commend you for the courage you have, but actually realize what little things I take for granted every day just by being alive. I hope this message reaches you in the BEST of health, and I hope your time on this planet is longer and more prosperous than you ever dreamed it could be. Again, I feel compelled to wish you congratulations on not giving up, and good luck in helping others. I would say don't quit fighting, and don't give up,  but I think you already have plenty of motivation and faith of your own. I just hope my few little words fan what blazing flames drive you. Thank you for being such a beautiful human being.

With the utmost respect and high regards, Erica. Bojan

 I think the message that Bob Bowers is working to spread needs to be heard by more people. He is a great example of someone who has maintained a  very high level of fitness has a devoted wife and a normal sex life, and most importantly enjoys a high quality of life. It is really encouraging to see someone not only survive but prosper in society for over two decades after being infected with HIV. Further, it was great that he was willing to talk about his experiences, and was completely open and responsive to questions from the audience.    ~ Michael P.

Kudos to you for apparently continuing to wage your own personal fight against what typically can not only be a mortal enemy in the end, but one who - as it takes its 'hosts' freely and randomly, with no discretion and all the while not being 'seen', creates an overwhelming breeding ground in which even loved ones turn against loves ones because they fear what they haven't educated themselves about. You're a prolific writer and your joy, enthusiasm, positive outlook and zest for life, as well as your sincerity, simply glows from your words, Bob.  Congratulations on all of your accomplishments - professionally, personally, and health-wise.  I admire and respect the way you reach out and touch so many people with your story of hope and courage and frankly, can't really imagine you NOT doing that. You have a natural gift for connecting with people and to be able to combine that with life experiences you've seen so far and relay that in a way where all are receptive is truly amazing and even magical. I'm fortunate that you were put on my path and that we became, and hopefully will be for many years to come, friends. - Jeannie

I was up late last nite and I watched your special (The Fire Within) with you and your wife, she was doing the road bike through California. I think you two are amazing people, I wanted to thank you for helping me. To look at my life completely differently. then the poor me I got sick. I don't have HIV but I have enough other shit I just cried watching you throw up and throw up from medicine and your attitude amazed me. I take more pills then any normal person could stand. and I decided to live more like you I can win this fight for life. Bob you should do more specials and if there are more out there please direct them to me. write a book too, you might already have one I think you impact people more then you realize. thank you, god be with you. you are in my prays forever.

~malinda

What an awesome site!!!  I admire you for being outspoken about the things you have gone through.  The world truly needs more people like you.  I wish you the best of luck in all that you do, and may you accomplish many of the wonderful things you are doing for people.  Blessed Be!!!                          
~Angel~

I hope I am not being to forward in e-mailing you.....but.....I just wanted to tell you that your site brought both tears to my eyes, chills to my skin, and peace to my heart. I have not been directly affected by AIDS on a personal level, however, being a nurse my final goal is to be involved in the fight for research and a cure. I hope that it didn't bother you  me e-mailing you, but it was kind of laid on my heart, I never look at peoples website, but something told me to check yours out. I have been directly affected by cancer several times which is another type of research I'd like to do, but I feel like the Lord is pushing me to work with HIV/AIDS patients and I'm not really sure why. And I love your saying Compassion is our cure......b/c it is the truth in this world through and through. Sorry, if I bothered you in anyway, I just really wanted to say I think it's awesome what you are doing, and I wish more people would be on the proactive side of this fight. Sincerely, Erin

Hi Bob,

I would like to thank you for helping make my week fun and something that I will never forget. Thanks for all the wonderful hugs, as well as the crazy outfits and wigs that made me smile. I told Vicki that I think I got more hugs in that one week than I got in the last eight years!

Thank you even more for sharing your story through the documentary that was shown. I actually watched it on Sunday night before the ride started and watched most of it during the ride. I really don't know what I can say or how to say it. You have been through (and are going through) something that I can't begin to imagine how tough each day is for you. But I thank you so much for the work that you do in bringing AIDS awareness to people. I think that it is very important that people especially teens understand how important it is to "know" this disease. So thank you for helping me and other people put a "face" on this disease.

I know that I haven't done a very good job expressing to you how much you have touched my life. But please know that you have and I thank you for it. :)

Take care,
Sally

Good Afternoon Bob,

I just spoke with Jake Glaser and he told me that you wanted me to email you.  I only have a few minutes right now, but I will definitely email you again.  I have checked out your website.  IT is awesome!!!!  I hope to create a website one of these days.  Thank You for those kind words you said about me the other night to the reporter from The Capital Times.  I am just started to do more and more.  If I can help you out with anything, please let me know and I will do everything I can do to help you.  I will let you know of things that come my way.  I hope this finds you in good health.  Take Care of yourself!!  Continue to do that great work you do!

Best Wishes,
ben banks

Hi Bob--
Wow, your talk with medical students today was awesome!!  I've continued to hear students talking about it all afternoon--you really had an impact on them.  We'll definitely have you back to talk with next year's group of students.  Once we have the exam schedule, we can figure out a good date for the fall. You are such a wonderful, inspiring person, and I think that by talking with young medical students you'll be making a significant contribution to the health care of the next generation. Thanks so much for your time, energy, passion, enthusiasm, and LIFE!! xoxoxoxox

Sharon Younkin, Ph.D.
Director, Community Service Programs
University of Wisconsin Medical School
Health Sciences Learning Center

From the tone of your last email, I can tell that you probably want to cash it all in. Oddly enough, I understand. You fought for so long and still continue to fight. It truly is "human" to stop and ask "is it worth it". No one can answer that. The answer is in your heart. From what I saw- that heart is unique. So unique that most people will never see it or feel it. You are correct, you have a purpose, you were destined for a path in life that is challenging- degrading- painful- rewarding and complex. I don't blame you for questioning - "why me". This is all too much for a "common" person. Bob, you are not common. You were selected by some higher power to lead a life that teaches and aids others. If I look at your life from an unbiased view, I can see that you are predestined. Why do you think I offered to care for you? I can see that what you are predestined for is very difficult. I feel it is a honor to be conversing with you. I share these feelings with my wife and kids as well. It's okay to cry and its okay to realize that the road your on is hard. Getting back up on your feet is the difficult part. That is how your friends and myself can help. Use us- abuse us...I go back to my nursery at work and look at all the faces of the infants that are fighting to live- these little ones are miniature versions of you Bob. Some do survive and go home to loving families. Others- we care for as long as they need medical attention. I have a good strong group now Bob! They smile and fuss like normal babies. In the back of my mind I sometimes retreat to those thoughts that they will have normal lives. You are right again Bob, I don't know you personally. But on another level- I know you more than you think. I've learned many tough lessons- I've sobbed many tears in my life. To you- I send my love and warmth. To you I send my prayers.

Peace-
You are One Tough Pirate!

-Matt

Bob-

No definitely thank you for all the things that you do (especially with the youth.. after all they are the ones that hold this fight in the future). Thanks again for speaking on Monday and everything you are doing this whole week....but most of all for just being you.

Craig Adamski - Case Manager AIDS Network

It is ME who is thankful for people like YOU, Pirate!  1200 teenagers reached at West yesterday, a panel discussion last night, and HOW MANY kids at East today????  You're amazing.  Talk to you soon.

(M.) Ann Fleming - Lead Case Manager
AIDS Network

	Just wanted to say great job on the site. My uncle died from AIDS about 10 years ago and its great to see that people are living longer with it than he did and that someone is doing something to educate people about AIDS and HIV. Take care and God Bless. ~ Michelle
HIV positive speaker Bob Bowers

Dedicated to Mr. Bob Bowers

By Deon Johnson

Hope and Faith have become my best friends, now that I have been diagnosed with an incurable illness. I continue to enjoy every aspect of my life, now that I understand my sickness.

There is no known cure for this horrible plague so I must anticipate a miracle. Although I am not infected with this disease, I feel your pain, so the hurt we share is identical.

I encourage you to live jubilantly even though having an ailment could be a pain; but inspiration and collaboration can only bring happiness and gain.

I despise those who discriminate because they refuse to understand your complication, and due to their stubbornness you have become a victim of dehumanization.

Blood is thicker than water. Love is thicker than hate. So, despite your illness, you shall still live happily and overlook those who discriminate.

God Bless You, Bob.
November 16, 2001
Fred C. Nelles Youth Correctional Facility-Whittier, California

TO THAT BAD ASS PIRATE:

I WORK AT THE OAKLAND COMMUNITY SCHOOL. AND I HAVE TO SAY THAT
YOU REALLY GOT TO THE KIDS TODAY(3/15/01). MAN, I NEVER SAW THOSE KIDS SO INTO A SPEAKER LIKE THEY WERE WITH YOU. FUCK THEY WERE QUIET, SHIT THAT MEANS THAT THEY WERE REALLY THINKIN ABOUT THE FUCKING TRUTH. WE ALWAYS HAVE SOMEBODY FROM THE COUNTY COME IN AND TALK ABOUT AIDS. BUT YOU GOT TO THEM. TAKE IT FROM A GUY THAT HAS BEEN WITH THESE KIDS FOR ABOUT 3 YRS. YOU KNOW I FEEL LIKE A FATHER TO THESE KIDS. BUT YOU LIKE OPENED THESE KIDS UP TO A NEW LEVEL WITH AIDS. THOSE KIDS ASKED ME SO MANY QUESTIONS ABOUT YOU WHEN YOU LEFT. HA HA HA, YOU WERE COOL. YOU WERE THE TALK OF THE SCHOOL, I TOLD THE STAFF THAT THEY WERE MISSING THE BEST SPEAKER WE EVER HAD HERE AT THE SCHOOL. THEY LIKED HOW YOU DIDN'T BULLSHIT WITH ANY ANSWERS AND DIDN'T HIDE ANYTHING. SHIT THAT'S HOW I AM WITH THESE KIDS, MAN I WISH WE HAD SOMEONE TALK TO THESE KIDS MORE LIKE THAT YOU KNOW. DON'T SUGARCOAT SHIT. TELL THEM HOW THIS SHIT IS KILLIN GOOD FUCKIN PEOPLE LIKE YOURSELF. TELL THEM THE TRUTH ABOUT WHAT'S GOIN ON OUT THERE BEYOND THE WALLS THAT GUIDE THEM. HEY I JUST WANTED TO SAY THANKS FOR TALKIN TO THESE KIDS AND LETTING THEM IN ON YOUR LIFE. IT TAKES A STRONG PERSON TO OPEN UP TO THESE KIDS. THANKS MAN, I GOT MUCH LOVE FOR YOU. FIGHT ON!

FROM BILL SILLETTI

Bob-

I hope you can remember me.  I am Bob Waldron, a 130lb YMCA member you gave 2 training sessions on the CYBEX strength-training machines at the old KYF building in downtown Kenosha.....during the last couple months before you left for Madison. You've got a lot of fans here, who talk very highly of you.  Of course, your good friend, Larry Zapp, is one of these and it's he that told me about your website.  I just came from there and learned about your story and your mission.  I feel proud to have had those sessions with someone like you;  I had no idea at the time the kind of pain and other obstacles you have been dealing with. In addition to being a full-time Postal Worker, I volunteer weekly at the Cancer Treatment Center in Zion; I've been there over a year now, and I meet people on a regular basis who are facing and dealing with the same kinds of life-threatening tortures that you are.  Frequently the treatment is more ferocious than the disease.  I've learned so much from these people, and now from you; I'm also continuing the strength training program you started me on, and I've doubled the weights on almost all of the stations you showed me. You're doing a great job under unusually difficult circumstances. Keep it up !

My prayers and thoughts are with you.

From one Bob to another,
Bob

Hello Bob:   

I spent some time exploring your website and I will definitely spend even more! WOW! Is the first thing I have to say! I am very impressed with you tooooooooo! You definitely have been doing a lot to help create awareness around HIV/AIDS as well as all it takes to live well and happy. I look forward to viewing your documentary and reading more of your articles...My website was launched August 15th 2003... When looking at your website I see a very dedicated and loving man. I also can see all you have been doing, your family and friends. Your thoughts and how you go about life, it all stands out! You are outstanding!!!! It feels good too, to connect with someone, knowing I am/we are, not alone……that there are those of us who are LIVING long and happy lives. And at the same time, dedicated to not only making a difference in how we live our own lives, but the lives of others too! To live 20 or 21 years is no easy feat!  Congratulations on all you have learned and accomplished. I’m very proud to know you!   

Bradford  

You can visit Brad at: www.positivelypositive.ca

Hey Bob,

You look so wonderful and sound like you have done so many good and positive things with your life. I am so proud of you and what you have accomplished and the plans you have to make AIDS so much more understandable to others and provide answers and options. Your email box must be full, but please include me from now on so I know what you are doing and how you are. I am proud to say you were my trainer and still are and always be my special friend.

Love to you,
Judi Goldfarb

Oh Bobby!!

Dearest Bob,


I just reviewed your wonderful website. It has been a while since I have looked at it. Once again (just like in the beginning) - I got the chills, a feeling of serenity and an overwhelming gratitude of love and friendship. You are one of most wonderful human beings I have ever met and I thank God each day for our relationship.

Love, Kathleen Tenuta 
 

The Phoenix

The chain and cords came with it...you don't have to wear it (kinda dangerous with all those points! :-) ) but you could hang it up somewhere to remind yourself that 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 the wind in your face and the warmth of your friends and the beauty of your accomplishments.


Hugs forever,
Rebecca Venn

Hey Pirate,
It has been awhile but great to hear from you and know you are doing well. Great to see the photos thanks for sharing.

Brian said he emailed you and he was glad to get your update as well. He still looks to you for inspiration often, he is now a youth minister in his church and is looking forward to speaking about AIDS as often as anyone will listen.

He's grown up a lot this last few years and we are really grateful for such positive role models such as yourself in his life. Wisconsin is lucky to have you and I know that your activism will be touching the lives of many new faces....

Stay well and much love to ya.

love Adrianne M. Lopez and Tom
AIDS Marathon

Hey Bob,

You may or may not remember me from (roughly) May of 2001. I met you at a club (I think Crazy Girls), on Labrea Blvd. I'm the guy from Kentucky (with the shaved head). We were doing construction at the Omni hotel in downtown L.A. I hope you remember. I just wanted to let you know that I remembered you, and I do hope you are doing very well. I'm sorry we lost touch, while we out there. I'm living in Kentucky now, finishing college. I graduate in May 2003....thank God! You may remember me telling you that my brother was paralyzed and teaching college in Louisville, Ky. He passed away this past December. He was injecting methadone (in it's oral form), which ultimately got the best of him. It's been hard, but people seem to find strength form the strangest places. You certainly popped in my mind a few times. I remember you as being a very strong individual and I'd like you to know that some of it has definitely rubbed off on me. I realize that our lives are very precious and we are never guaranteed anything, certainly not tomorrow, no matter who we are. I have made a lot of changes in my life and I'd like for the people who have touched me in some way to know it! Anyway, I hope you remember me...and I hope you are doing well. Please let me know. I check my e-mail frequently, so please stay in touch!


-Ryan

Hi!

I'm the lead singer from Monogroove, the band at Canter's last night. I was adding you to our mailing list and decided to check out your web page. And I felt all the blood drain from me when I read your story, and I am sitting here crying now, trying to see the letters on the keys so I can tell you how happy I am for you that you're still so alive. Your story struck a well-worn chord with me- About 6 years ago my uncle who is very like a father to me was found to be HIV positive. I am from a small town in Pennsylvania that definitely was not up on current events, and we were all confused as to what happened from that point. We have never been able to make my grandmother understand-she still thinks that he has some type of cancer, or something that will eventually go away. You described everything we saw- with the vomiting and the pain and the bags of pills and the nights we thought it was all over. The times that doctors said we should get his affairs in order, because he wouldn't be with us in the morning. Yet here he is. Like you, the doctors aren't sure why he's still with us- unlike you he is a little man, and was always a bit frail, even for a Navy man- but it's so good to hear that there is hope! That he may live many more years, maybe even until a cure is found. And you are right about people's preconceived notions. My uncle was sent to the Persian Gulf while in the Navy, and while there, he got sick and was sent to a hospital where he received a transfusion of contaminated blood. Yet people still look at you knowingly when you explain his situation. Who are they to judge? God bless you, and God bless the others around you who are keeping faith and hope alive. Your story is inspirational, even though I don't think I'll ever be able to not feel sadness for so many people being lost to such a terrible thing.
-Lady V Chick from Monogroove

A week ago on a Saturday night, i met you at Mel's Diner on Sunset in Hollywood. Some of my friends and I talked to you about your website and so i finally decided to go check it out. i am only 19, but i understand that this is a serious issue. I deeply respect what you are doing, and i hope that you can continue speaking to kids and people alike, informing them about this terrible sickness. I just wanted to sign your guest book, but i didn't se one. so instead i wrote this to you, just to let you know someone actually cares and doesn't think you are full of shit. Good luck with your fight, and god bless.  Kenny

hi bob--
i just finally had the chance to read the letter you wrote--i think you said it was one you used in a presentation for pep la. wow! life has not been so fun lately, but reading that sure put it in perspective. you are amazing and inspirational to say the least. For someone i only met briefly, your life has had quite an impact--i guess a lot of people can say that of you. You are in my thoughts often. I just had to let you know how lucky this world is to have you around, and to thank you for your difficult, tiring(sp?), challenging, frustrating, necessary, needed, appreciated, inspirational, motivational, educational, thought provoking, beautiful (you get the idea) life and work! i feel lucky to have met you. i do also have to say after reading, that i'm sorry for all the pain you have to and have had to deal with--emotionally and physically--ddaaaammmnn bob!!!--thanks for trying so hard-- so, hope all is well most recently, and 'till our paths cross again, take care---

Seeeeeeyaaaaaaa---
Susan Sinjur

Wow! You are such an amazing writer, Bob...I had no idea! Thank you so much for being so brave, and sharing with me and others, many intimate and vulnerable details of the living hell you've endured. I don't want to invest any more energy than I already have, in anger and resentment against the pharmaceutical companies; A.M.A.; standardly trained M.D.s; etc. for feeding their desperate and trusting patients with poison!!!! I am so sorry this happened to you, and amazed that you have survived from the days of AZT monotherapy, to today! I'm blessed to know you, as are all the people, young and old, who can listen to your story. There are so many lives out there you are saving!! I get that survivor's guilt, too, as a fellow member of the "17 Year Club". It really isn't necessary, as I know that we were both chosen by whatever spiritual powers that be, to be messengers and ambassadors testifying to the art of living, fighting, and prevention. Thank you again, for your article, your website, your e-newsletter, and for being part of my world!

Love,
Andrea

bOB, THIS IS BEAUTIFUL, AND i WISH i COULD GIVE YOU MORE THAN A
HEARTFELT HUG. YOU ARE INSPIRATIONAL BEYOND BELIEF, AND i just adore you. What a brave and beautiful person you are. Can I share this writing, or should I wait till you publish the final version? I want all my nieces and nephews to meet you and know you. I talk about you a lot. I am so moved, there are not words to describe it. God was in a good mood the day he made you! (But he's gotta get him some Prozac - these moods swings gotta go!)

I love you, baby!   ~Sheryl

hello mr. bowers,

i just wanted to say that i really admire you because you are really fighting for your life. And is doing what ever is possible to talk teens out of having unprotected sex and drug abuse. i really thank you for taking the time to come and talk to us about the risk of hiv and aids. i also thank you because you really gave me personally a better look at what aids can do and take away from you. thanks a lot really.

p.s.
never give up keep on fighting till the end.

your new and truthful friend,
wendy n. (MR. MARRIOT FIRST PERIOD CLASS.)
(THE GIRL IN THE RED PHILLIES SHIRT)

ALWAYS AND FOREVER WE'LL FIGHT TO THE END.
count me in as one of your true friends.

Hi Bob
That is some awesome writing!!!!! It is very moving and soul touching. Very deep. How well you have put the words together to express what you have had to live thru. What an awful amount of suffering you have had to experience and watch others go through yet you keep on and write so well, create a great website, encourage others, have a loving marriage, have wisdom and compassion beyond your years. Although I am a host to a different virus (yuck) I can personality relate to so much of the symptoms and feelings. Just to "know" you in cyberspace and hear your story and through all you have lived with still see such a strong spirit, motivation, compassion, love and will to live is quite an inspiration to me. Let me know if it is ok to pass your story on.

Aloha, Khat Suncat (Sunny)

This was really amazing Bob...no one could ever call you a "taker" you are a tremendous "giver." Thank you for sharing this and your struggles with me because it makes me better, makes me appreciate more and makes me realize just how precious life and love is. I'm sorry that you were burdened with this disease but I am always so amazed by the good you've done through having it, the lives you've changed and the hearts you've filled with joy. You suffer all the pain but we get all the benefit from your wisdom and I'm sorry for you for that but yet so grateful. You are a spiritual messenger you know, and that's a tremendous responsibility which you bear so gracefully and powerfully. Thanks for being in my life.

I love you,
Julie C.

To the Cool Guy,

You probably get a trillion letters a day, but I just wanted to share a story with you that I thought you might be kind of interested in. My name is Heather, and you recently visited my class at Crossroads High School. It was funny that you came in when you did, because the following weekend I was already planning on getting my tattoo. When you talked about how important it was to make sure the needles were clean, I listened closely. That Saturday, I went to Venice Beach with my friend to get my tattoo, and when I sat down with the man, I asked him to show me that the needles were clean. He replied, "Trust me." Well, I'm not that gullible, so I asked him to prove it. He told me, "Listen up, girl... I have a lot to do today. I promise you the needles are clean." I was freaked out, so I told my friend to go tell the other man in the store, who looked to be the manager or something, named James. James immediately came over and demanded to talk to my soon-to-be tattoo artist. Within a few seconds, James was apologizing to me and told me that the man was fired. James told me that the policy of the store was to open the needle packages in front of the customer, and by failing to do this, the tattoo artist was fired. Well, I got my tattoo. I left laughing with my friend but inside I was scared to death. If it hadn't been for you talking to my class, I probably would have completely forgotten to ask if the needles were clean, and therefore could have subjected myself to whatever was on them. Not only that, but the man may have remained in the store forever, infecting other people. My friends later told me what a good deed I had done, but I give the credit entirely to you, Bob. Thank you soooooo much.

Very Sincerely
Heather

Bob...

I am completely speechless..... I, I don't know how or what to say. Maybe it would be better if i didn't say anything at all except for this, My heart goes out to you and your wife. Although we only met a few weeks ago, I have the utmost respect for you, my friend. I'm sure you have heard this before, but if you ever need anything, anything at all, please, please, please call me. You're family man.... I thank God for our chance meeting.... you have blessed my life in so many ways. Thank you. Take care man,

Your friend for life!
Jared aka. J-Dawg

Changing kids lives by
Helping them see
Intelligence instead of stupidity
Loving understanding arms that never
Demand
Raising high hopes
Enabling us to stand
Never giving up

On our little dreams
For pimps aren't always what they seem

Trusting in us to do the right thing
Having a heart and letting us in
Expressing your great hopes for us to win

Naive little children no matter what age
Indulging men's fantasies on a very small stage
God then sent you from heaven above, to
Help us understand the true meaning of love
Together we'll continue to do what we can,
spreading this important message across the land

The above poem is written by one of my favorite kids from Children of the Night. Her name is Anna B. and she is such a beautiful young spirit. THANK YOU Anna for sharing this touching poem with all of us!

ME AND MOM LOVE YOU BOTH AND WE WHERE HAPPY AND STAY IN THERE
WE LOVE YOU BOTH FROM BRIAN&MOM.

Hi Bob,

I just finished reading all the responses from some of the young people in Brian's health class. I was very moved to read such honest letters! I have known you for over a year now and I am always amazed at how much more you reveal of yourself each time you speak. Thank you for agreeing to come up here for the day. I know that you did not tell them just how bad you were feeling that day and that your shingles were really bothering you. I know that there was a possibility that you would not have been able to join us. You are remarkable. What I think has drawn me to you most is the fact that no matter how bad you may feel (and I know each day can be a struggle) you get up and go out and share yourself with others. What the students didn't see was you getting to Griffith Park at the crack of dawn, with your bright red pom pom and cheering on the Marathon Runners raising money for APLA. I have heard several of the participants comment how much they miss you when you are not there to wave and cheer them on. Watching the faces in that classroom I felt very lucky. I had the opportunity to watch my son get a great gift in you. So many parents don't have that opportunity to share something that special with their kids. I'm sure some of them went home and told their parents that they met you and relayed what happened. I'm sure the parents (no fault of their own) didn't feel the impact of it either. Getting to meet you, knowing there are real people with this disease. As I said that day, as a mother all I can do is give my child all the tools and weapons to equip him to make good, safe and intelligent decisions for himself and those around him. Not just about sex and drugs but any behavior that can put him at risk or those who are around him. I can only hope that he will feel confident that he can. As will each of the students who had the opportunity to meet you. Being with you and Shawn this past week end at all our fundraisers, hearing you both speak about the need for awareness made me want to just tell everyone who would listen about these fiercely loving people who are fighting HIV/AIDS every single day. What an important message of love and hope you have. It is very hard to imagining you are sick. Looking at you, this big strong, tough looking biker type dude. The picture of health, just gave the message that this virus does it's damage from the inside out. That no matter who you pass on the street even the healthiest looking person could be carrying this horrible disease. That was the reason I wanted you to speak to the students. I wanted them to see that you don't have to look sick to be sick, you don't have to be gay and you don't have to be some junkie on the street. This virus isn't picky! What I read over and over again was the one issue I wanted to drive home the most...now this virus has a face. AIDS is no longer a stranger. AIDS is not a disease that someone else I don't know has. Now I have touched someone who really has it. And you know what...I didn't catch it from him. What I did catch was the tool to keep me from getting it !!! I hope each student can really appreciate the knowledge that they now have and pass it on the others!! Well my tough pirate friend, I know that down inside is a really gentle and caring soul. One who fights each day for another day of living. I think of you often when I feel like my day has gotten the better of me...and I realize that my worst day would never compare with what you face every moment of every day. I have never known such a courageous individual in my life. To you students who are reading this now. I love my son and want his future to be filled with great things. All parents want that for their children. Bob's parents didn't want this for him and he doesn't want this for you either. Be kind to yourself. Know that you are truly the best friend you will ever have. Trust that your courage will get you through some very serious S_ _ _! Things we don't tell other people, things we think are too horrible to share. Bob is a perfect example that no matter how horrible, life is worth fighting for...be strong!!!

Love To You
Adrianne
(Brian's Mom)

Bob

In case you can't figure out who this is from, it is Jesse (Erin's friend). I wanted to write to wish you the best and to let you know that Erin called from Italy today to say how much she loves you and how much she is thinking about you. She really wants you to know that she wishes you the best and that she will be in L.A. as soon as she possibly can once she returns from her trip. Bob, I barely know you, but the little piece that I do know seems to be one hell of a fighter. Hang in there, fight like I know you will and know that there are people all over this state, coast and country that love and are thinking of you. I wish you the best and send my prayers. You are a martyr for so many and have given so much -- I only hope you know how important and meaningful the work you do is.

Enough for now. I wish you the best.
Good luck and Godspeed.
-Jesse

Dearest Bob:

So here I am jammin' to get ready for the big interview and I couldn't help but read your stories. You are something else. Yup, you had me in tears several times. YOU put me into perspective with my own medical challenges. How can I complain about the debilitating joint disease and degenerative osteoarthritis when I have friends like you suffering through the anguish of HIV. How you keep the spirit and delightful sense of humor is enlightening. You really are a beam of light and hope. How blessed I am that you and Shawn are now a significant part of my life and a driving force for my indefatigable commitment against HIV/AIDS. How blessed I am that you have so strongly reinforced my goal of elevating the care, compassion and hope for our friends with HIV/AIDS. You personify the entire mission of PEP/LA, PEP/INTERNATIONAL and all of our PEP "satellites". You are behind the true passion that motivates Wendy to continue to fight even if it means living in the bush of Africa as I did in Zimbabwe and will presumably do in the dirt of Uganda in January.

Stay strong, my angel, you are our inspiration.

Very sincere love,

Wendy Arnold

THE FIERCE HERO

YOU ARE THE FUCKING MOST AMAZING person I HAVE EVER KNOWN...wow you are the coolest and I love and admire you more than I could ever say. You are triumphant. Bob, with your name written on your forehead." HERO" is damn right. I cannot wait to hear about all of the other amazing souls that traveled with you on your journey...I look forward to stories about those you inspired and touched and those that inspired and touched you. Welcome home. I am sooooooooooo(x1000)oooooooo... PROUD OF YOU!!!

All my love and hugs and kisses,
Erin Michelle Kandel

We will survive, and conquer all there is to come! Tanya Bercu

Just wanted to let you know that YOU are the strongest person I know.
We're all pulling for you.

Much love
Scottie Boom Body

 

Click to view AIDS Timeline

Da Pirate comparin' guns with some of the La Follette High School students after speaking about HIV/AIDS prevention and education. Thank you guys, Heidi and all of La Follette High School for your incredible show of appreciation and support! I look forward to my return visits!

MORE PHOTOS FROM BOB'S PRESENTATIONS TO YOUTH ABOUT HIV/AIDS PREVENTION-EDUCATION AND LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS