Question
What are my Dad's chances of recovery?
19 February 2008. Related: All topics.
My Dad has just been diagnosed with HIV and his CD4 count was 20, very low. He has lost vast amounts of weight over a short period of time. I need to know about his life span chances. He is 58 years old. He has been on treatment for two weeks. Please can you give me an honest answer. I need to know what to expect in terms of when he gets ill. What kind of care will he need when he deteriorates? What will happen when he gets really poorly?
Answer
Thank your for your questions. The anxiety and worry expressed in your questions is understandable. Yes, your Dad’s CD4 count is very low but the fact that he is now on treatment is very good. As you might appreciate, recovery will be gradual and you need to take one day at a time. The fact that you have contacted us and are finding out what else you can do is encouraging. Continue to find out more about how you can best support your Dad.
I would like to share something with you in the hope that it will help calm your fears. In 1996, my CD4 count was 1 when I started treatment and I was rail thin. I have taken my treatment religiously over the last fourteen years and my CD4 count is almost 500. My viral load has been undetectable for the last decade. I am also happy with my weight.
Your Dad’s prognosis looks good and your support counts for a lot. Please do come back to us if you have any other questions. Best wishes.
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