Today marks exactly 40 years since Terry Higgins became the first named person to die of an AIDS-related illness in the UK. Terry's tragic death from a mysterious and unknown virus started a chain of events that would save countless lives – with the impact still being felt today through our life changing work. His name is now synonymous with the fight against HIV and AIDS, because Terry was the first named person in the UK to die of an AIDS-related illness. Thankfully incredible progress around HIV has meant it is now possible for someone living with HIV to lead a long and fulfilling life. 97% of those diagnosed and on treatment in the UK are virally suppressed and can’t pass on HIV. Brand new research we've released to mark four decades since Terry's death suggests a huge stigma still surrounds perceptions of HIV. Data from YouGov found only 30% of people would be comfortable dating someone living with HIV, while just 37% of people would feel fine kissing someone who has the virus, despite the virus never being passed on in that way. Our CEO Ian Green said: “We’re very proud of Terry Higgins and all we’ve achieved in his name, but the best way to celebrate 40 years since his untimely death is to engage as many people as possible in all the progress that’s been made since – including that someone living with HIV and on effective treatment can’t pass the virus on to their partners.” “I’ve been living with HIV for over 25 years and there’s no risk in hugging or kissing me. I know that the treatment I take means I can’t pass on HIV and my husband knows that too. I just wish the general public was more up-to-date on how much HIV has changed since the 1980s.” Terry Higgins, 1945-82. Gone, but never forgotten. Image description: 1. Terrence Higgins with his trademark moustache. Headline reads, “Terrence Higgins: A name that gave hope to those with HIV and AIDS.” 2. Poster from Terrence Higgins Trust’s archive. It shows a couple kissing with the caption “No risk in a kiss” underneath them. 3. Another poster from Terrence Higgins Trust’s archive. It shows a son and mother holding hands with the caption “He’s positive. His mum feels the same”.