Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 1998. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Miami Herald (MH) - Sunday, May 17, 1998
Charles Cotayo; Herald Writer
That's one of the challenges that Marc Cohen, the new leader of the United Foundation for AIDS, is trying to overcome through education.
The group also aims to improve the quality of life of people with HIV and AIDS by providing housing, medical support, access to medication and other services.
Cohen, 34, took over the helm of the foundation when its former president, Al Evans, died in 1997. Along with Evans, Cohen was one of the original founders of UFA in 1993.
The Miami Beach resident had served as vice president for five years and continues to work on a volunteer basis. He knows what the enemy is.
"Our greatest opponent lies with prejudices and ignorance about HIV," said Cohen who gave up a lucrative career as an art dealer to "preserve life.
"There was no time to sell art and save lives, so I chose saving lives, educating people, and walking side-by-side with those that were dying. I will be fighting against AIDS until it is only a painful memory."
What is painful to those infected with the virus is the rejection from family and friends.
Despite the known routes of transmission, many people live in fear of becoming infected with AIDS through casual contact.
Dr. Jose Hernandez, of South Shores Hospital's Al Evans Community AIDS Program, treats more than 20 AIDS patients daily and says, "lack of education" continues to be a major problem.
Hernandez said that people who fear becoming infected with AIDS through food handling, sharing a cigarette or eating utensils, a hug, a social kiss, a cough or a sneeze should be more concerned about hepatitis, which is potentially a thousand times more contagious than AIDS.
"AIDS has crossed over every threshold and cultural boundary that exists," said Cohen. "It's important to get to know about it before it gets to know you. That's the key to living a long, healthy life with HIV."
One way the foundation helps is through the Godparent House, an independent living facility for patients, family, friends and caregivers. It also provides medical attention at South Shore Hospital.
The Godparent House was made possible by a $150,000 donation by local philanthropist Frosene Sonderling, and through local support of UFA's fund raising efforts. One of the foundation's most famous supporters is Ivana Trump.
"Over the past five years I have been involved with several AIDS groups in various cities," said Trump. "I strongly believe that we need to find the cure for AIDS, and this in turn will help unlock the secrets of so many other diseases. I am proud of my work with UFA because I know they play a much needed role in the health and welfare of AIDS patients in Florida."
UFA is headquartered at the South Shore Hospital, 600 Alton Rd. Its many roles include free, confidential HIV testing and counseling. Cohen encourages testing because, "knowledge is power.
"Don't be afraid of AIDS," Cohen said. "Fight back. Awareness leads to prevention."
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RANDY BAZEMORE / Herald Staff LEADS FOUNDATION: Marc Cohen gave up a lucrative career as an art dealer to "preserve life."
CAPTION: photo: Marc Cohen (A)
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