News across America - An alarming increase in the reports Kaposi's Sarcoma and Pneumocystis in gay men was announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
There was a big difference for Ira between reading about AIDS in the news and having his art director, Steve Johnson die from it on the weekend of August 29, 1981. The were more than co-workers, he was like a brother to Ira.
Since Steve didn't have any family to speak of, Ira made all of the arrangements. He wrote the obituary, picked up the ashes from the crematorium, and organized the memorial service.
At least 100 of Steve's chosen family and friends showed up at the MCC Church in New Town. There was one familiar face, Ira's NIU room mate Michael Davis. Without thinking, he ran up to him and wrapped his arms around him in a tight hug. It took a moment, but Michael responded in kind. He asked, "Did you do all of this for Steve?" Tears started to roll down Ira's cheek and all he could do was nod.
After the service, the two went to the Melrose on Broadway to catch-up with a cup of coffee. So much had happened since they last saw each other. Michael was a physical therapist at Lutheran General Hospital, and Ira was a creative director for the auto group at J. Walter Thompson. They talked about everything except the white elephant in the room, Ira's wedding band.
Finally, as they were leaving the coffee shop, Michael asked if they could get together again. Ira lowered his head, "I want to, but...". "Your married, I understand. But can't we be friends?" Ira reached out and hugged Michael whispering in his ear, "but, I want more." The couple kissed on Broadway and Melrose, in front of God and everyone.
They both knew that this moment was the beginning of a lifelong love affair.
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