Sometimes Say My Name

Prose Poems by renowned poet Herb Woodward Matin which recount the life and AIDS deterioration of Willie Short after a hospitalization when he discovers his illness. The following account describes the subject of these poems: Willie Short 36 DishwasherHouston TXDont forget me. Mention my name now and then.Newsweek August 10 1987I was shot in a robbery attempt two years ago. While in the hospital I was diagnosed as having the AIDS virus.When I came to after the operation I saw my father whom I had not seen in 17 years. When he learned what I had he immediately left and I have not seen him since. Since then Ive recovered from the gunshot wound but have suffered a much greater loss. I have lost the love of my parents and will never br a part of the family again.I have lost all my friends who have turned their backs on me. Ive experienced firsthand the hatred and prejudice that come with having the disease. Ive become a recluse and have very little time left. The reason I am writing is with the loss of my family and friends Im afraid what will happen to me when I die.. . . I dont want to die and be forgotten. I just want to die with dignity.