Jim Frederick discusses being an HIV+ artist on Internet radio
![]() |
Gay artist Jim Frederick has remained silent about his ailment, but will speak about it publicly on a Podcast. |
Two years ago, gay Dallas artist Jim Frederick contracted progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy — a viral infection better known as P.M.L. — and it turned his life upside down.
Frederick, who has long been HIV-positive, says that the effects of P.M.L. were similar to those of a stroke. The virus attacked the right side of his brain and for the past two years he has had to teach himself to walk, talk — and even paint — again.
The mortality rate for those with HIV-related P.M.L. has fallen over the past several years from over 90 percent to under 50 percent. Reversing the immune deficient state is the best therapy, according to the Web site of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders.
Frederick’s battle with P.M.L. is reaping its rewards. He again paints and recently joined the Turtle Creek Chorale and will be a rider in the Lone Star Ride in September.
Frederick has remained largely silent about this new illness — not out of shame, but physical necessity.
"After a year of saying nothing, I’m going to talk on a freaking radio show" he says. On Wednesday, Frederick will speak about his experience as an artist with HIV on a Podcast at PozIAm.com.
Poziam.com on June 10.
This article appeared in the Dallas Voice print edition June 5, 2009.
Jim is a friend of mine and I’m so glad of the progress he has made over the past couple of years. Thank you for bringing his story to light.
Hello Dallas Voice…
Love the article about Jim. He is such an inspiring man. I am the host of POZIAM Radio and wanted to offer the time and link to the podcast for listeners.
Wednesday June 10th at 2pm EST
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/poziam
Robert
I am 1 of Jims cousins in MO, and am sooo incredibly proud to say to people I have a cousin who is an artist. His talent is unbelieveable and inspires me daily on my own projects and scrapbooking creations. He encourages me constantly to just jump in and do it. His famous motto this year is my daily chant. “Miracles happen…Just believe.” He is a wonderful human being. One who can see past the exterior of a person and see whats really inside. Thank you for giving him the attention he so deserves.