N.Z. Doctor A ‘workhorse’ In A.I.D.S. Fight (Press, 24 September 1987)

Dr Charles Farthing, a New Zealand-born dermatologist, has emerged as a significant figure in combating the A.I.D.S. epidemic in London, where he has worked at St Stephens Hospital since 1984. Originally from Christchurch, he left for training in dermatology but became deeply involved in the A.I.D.S. crisis as it unfolded. He established a clinic in response to a lack of awareness and interest regarding the disease, particularly among the groups most affected, prompting him to take on a heavy case load that doubles every eight months. Dr Farthing describes his experience as overwhelming, noting that there are insufficient medical professionals with the requisite expertise to meet the increasing demand from patients, many of whom have multiple health issues and psychological needs intertwined with their A.I.D.S. diagnosis. He expresses exhaustion, stating that his work is nearly continuous, often extending into the evenings with little time for rest. Reflecting on the resilience of his patients, Dr Farthing is deeply moved by their dignity in the face of suffering. He shares a poignant story about a patient who died after expressing gratitude for the care he received, showcasing the human spirit amidst the hardships caused by the disease. His practice is centred at the John Hunter Clinic, which serves a vulnerable population at high risk of A.I.D.S., including the homosexual and drug-using communities. Recently, the introduction of the antiviral drug Retrovir has provided a glimmer of hope in A.I.D.S. treatment. Since its development in April 1987, it has been employed at St Stephens with some patients showing improvement, although not all tolerate the drug's side effects. Dr Farthing notes that while Retrovir does not restore immune functionality once it is largely destroyed, it can prevent further deterioration. He is optimistic about ongoing clinical research and potential new treatments on the horizon. Dr Farthing, educated in New Zealand and with a medical career beginning in 1976, reflects on the evolution of A.I.D.S. awareness and treatment since the hospital's first case in 1981. He plans to share insights in New Zealand regarding the complexities of A.I.D.S. care, including the need for specialists trained in this unique field. He has witnessed a change in public attitude towards A.I.D.S. patients in the UK, attributing this shift to government campaigns that have fostered sympathy and understanding. Despite the progress made, Dr Farthing expresses frustration over budget constraints that hinder the creation of junior doctor positions dedicated to A.I.D.S. treatment, as patient numbers continue to surge. He also raises concerns regarding the uncertainty surrounding individuals who test positive for HIV and whether they will go on to develop A.I.D.S., as the public health challenge remains formidable in the context of the epidemic.

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