AIDS Disclosure

That Arthur Ashe has AIDS is sad news indeed (“Tennis Great Ashe Reveals He Has AIDS,” April 9). He seems a decent, sensitive man. And as deceitful as the invasion of his privacy was, it need not be for nothing. George Bush called him. President Bush does not call the patients I work with or the selfless health care providers I am privileged to assist who give their hearts and skills to those patients every day.

Ashe is angry. He has a right to be. But when he calms, I hope he will find the strength to address the work that still lies ahead in this field and the legions of people who need medical and emotional support to deal with this insidious disease. Money and education are imperatives and Ashe has the ear of the President. That’s clout. The world needs him to use it.

LARRY ROSEN

Encino