Surviving AIDS

Bob Massie was infected with the AIDS virus in 1978; over 20 years later, Massie is not only still alive, he's not taking drugs. In this absolutely first-rate NOVA production, viewers meet several of the immunologists, molecular biologists, physicians and patients who are exploring the mystery of why some people who are HIV positive never develop AIDS. Although scientists understand some of the reasons that certain people remain healthy decades after being infected, the key to resistance is still a mystery. However, ongoing research offers much-needed hope in the battle against "one of the fiercest enemies science has ever faced," and the heroic acts of the patients being studied may one day enable every AIDS patient to become a long-term survivor. In trademark NOVA style, what might be dry science becomes a fascinating journey; what might be incomprehensible instead provides a dozen "huh, I didn't know that" moments. Surviving AIDS is enthusiastically and highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: H, C, P. (K. Glaser)