Ken Cowan, Aids activist; born February 23, 1955, died November 11, 1995

KEN Cowan, one of the foremost Aids activists in the West of Scotland, has died, aged 40. He was a major force in the development of Body Positive (Strathclyde), the self-help agency for those living with HIV, and in November 1994 he became founder/director of Phace West, the project for HIV and Aids education in the West of Scotland.

During his student years, Ken Cowan became well known as an activist in left-wing political circles and was a founder member of the Scottish Labour Party.

Later, his involvement with gay rights led to his becoming a founder member in the late seventies of the influential Scottish Homosexual Rights Group, a platform from which he staunchly campaigned for equal rights for the community to which he belonged.

His HIV diagnosis in 1991 was a major personal challenge which he met with great courage. However, he was equally challenged by the many unanswered questions surrounding the whole issue of HIV and Aids and his scepticism about medical knowledge in the field is well known. (His faith in his specialist at Glasgow's Ruchill Hospital, Dr Dermot Kennedy, was, however, complete until the end.)

Ken was a charismatic man who tenaciously held his opinions, but he thrived on the challenge of spirited debate. He passionately pursued his knowledge of the complicated issues surrounding HIV and was particularly skilful in fighting against the prejudice, and dispelling the myths, surrounding the virus. His eloquence on the subject was always compelling, whether he was teaching school children, or convincing politicians and health board funders.

His determination ultimately brought about key policy changes which in turn have radically affected HIV services in the West of Scotland. At Ruchill Hospital, for example, he insisted patients be invited on to the carers' sub-committee and that became a reality.

He was responsible for highlighting the relative underemphasis on HIV prevention initiatives for gay men and this ultimately led to the West of Scotland's success in an awareness strategy. He was also very interested in breaking down barriers which separated the Catholic Church and issues of sexuality.

His legacy is today positively benefiting those people affected by HIV and helping to protect future generations from it.