The topic of disease and sickness occupies a prominent place in the contemporary mass media. There are many cinematographic works which explore this issue. For example, one can mention the famous docudrama And the Band Played On. This docudrama describes the outbreak of AIDS epidemics in the United States in the eighties. In particular, the movie eloquently illustrates the experiences of patients who were virtually left to their own devices by the state (And the Band Played On).
In many cases, they could even by stigmatized by other people. Furthermore, this film depicts the efforts of medical workers and researchers to limit the spread of this disease. On the whole, this movie highlights the idea that sickness may affect every individual. It should be mentioned this docudrama was partly aimed at increasing people’s awareness about the risks of HIV. Moreover, this film could be intended for policy-makers who should pay more attention to the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and scientists. For example, it is necessary to allocate more funds in order to support the efforts of researchers. To a great extent, this example indicates that contemporary media can be used to shape people’s views on various healthcare problems. These are the main details that should be taken into account.
Furthermore, it is possible to examine a popular program which is supposed to raise funds for AIDS research. This campaign has been launched by the organization called AIDS Research Alliance. The main mission of this organization is to develop more effective medications for people who are infective with HIV (AIDS Research Alliance).
Certainly, this organization does not directly rely on the film And the Band Played On. Nevertheless, there is a common theme. In particular, one can speak about the importance of compassion for people who can be affected by this disease. One should bear in mind that the fundraising campaign mounted by this organization is based on the use of narratives showing how people can struggle with various effects of HIV and AIDS. To a great extent, this approach is quite effective because it prompts people to place themselves in the position of others. Furthermore, this organization clearly explains the recent progress made by researchers and medical workers. These examples demonstrate that scientists should use various strategies when they need to appeal for help, especially financial assistance. These are the main points that can be made.
Works Cited
AIDS Research Alliance. “Mission & Vision.” Aidsresearch.org. 2014. Web.
And the Band Played On. Ex. Prod. Sarah Pillsbury. New York: HBO, 1993. DVD.