An already frail Peter Taylor at the This Is Your Life tribute 11.55AM: Noted Auckland gay personality and champion of HIV awareness Peter Taylor has been moved into a hospice as he becomes increasingly frail following his decision to withdraw from medical treatment. Taylor already had HIV when he contracted the rare and aggressive disease leishmaniasis from an insect bite in Spain. The combination of the two infections made treating either extremely difficult and he has for many years undergone a punishing round of chemotherapy, transfusions and operations in a bid to stay alive and well. He backed off his demanding role in the equestrian world and became involved in the establishment of several gay bars, including Urge and Surrender Dorothy. He also published two books based on his philosophy of extracting as much joy as possible from life whenever the opportunity presents itself. Two months ago Taylor announced that the struggle to stay alive had become too much and that after a packed 'This Is Your Life' tribute function two weeks ago he would stop taking medications and decline other treatments. Taylor had remained at home in the care of his partner, Rodney Coleman, and friends. He was described two days ago as "weak" but "doing ok". But his deteriorating health led to a decision for him to be moved to a hospice this morning.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News
First published: Saturday, 14th September 2013 - 11:45am