AMARILLO, TEXAS --
HIV and AIDS are real problems, even in the Texas Panhandle.
Dec. 1 marks World AIDS Day, a day where people all across the globe unite to help fight against the illnesses.
PASO, or the Panhandle AIDS Support Organization, is a community based service that is dedicated to help those infected. It also helps to educate the public.
Michael Timcisko, Executive Director for PASO, said more than 250 people in the Panhandle have receive client services from the organization.
"Currently, 260 people receive assistance from PASO," Timcisko said.
Although treatment for HIV and AIDS has significantly progressed over the years, it's important to realize how much work still must be done.
"We have come a long way and that's really what World AIDS Day is about," Timcisko said. "It's a day where we can reflect on our achievements and how far we've come. But also perhaps, how far we still need to go."
The Centers for Disease Control estimates more than 1.2 million Americans are living with HIV. One in five of those people, according to the CDC, don't even know they are infected.
"Knowing is everything," said Timcisko. "If we know someone is infected, we can help stop the spread."
Across the Panhandle, tests are offered at places like health departments and local physicians. Here are some places to get tested at:
Your local physician
Area health departments (1000 Martin Road in Amarillo)
PASO offices (Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons - 1501 W. 10th)
For more information on how to protect yourself against AIDS, click here.
