I write in response to the letter headed "On the Beacon" (Letters, May 28). When I read the letter my heart sank and I felt quite upset.

These days it takes a lot to upset me after living with HIV for 17 years, having had AIDS-defining illnesses and lost a lot of my friends while they were being cared for in the residential unit at The Sussex Beacon.

However, each day I am thankful and grateful because I am still here, and genuinely say to all those who read my letter that this would not be the case if it wasn't for all the continued loving care and support that I have received from the staff and management of the Beacon.

I was so sorry to read of yet another who had lost a partner to AIDS, but know they will always be able to draw comfort and strength from the knowledge they had received real care, around the clock, at a time when that is all that's needed. A precious time that is priceless. I know this to be the case because it's what the Beacon does. This is what it provides, as well as all the miracles.

I have been a client there on and off for 13 years and have witnessed all this so many times. Naturally, I would find it upsetting to read of anyone suggesting that such a beacon of hope to so many should be sold, and the money given away.

I ask L Anderson to hold on to what is important and what the Beacon would have meant to their loved one, and what it could have been like if it had not been there.

Tranquillity and privacy, which gave dignity, lost to an NHS ward.

I have no doubt that the points raised in the letter will be investigated by the management of the Beacon, who are approachable. Meanwhile we should all remember that although the "pink pound" may be strong, sometimes such situations can arise for many places of excellence and care, due to funding cuts.

We hear of A & E departments and specialist children hospitals all over the country coming under threat, and the Sussex Beacon is not going to be immune to this. Yet despite all, the Beacon management are dedicated to fundraising as well, to bridge any gap to maintain what is now the last HIV/AIDS hospice in the UK. It is not just a beacon in our community, but also to those who travel hundreds of miles to get there.

I have put my heart on my sleeve in writing this letter, as I am proud to come out publicly with my HIV status for the very first time because I believe the Sussex Beacon is deserving of this.

Stephen Poole Lavender Street, Brighton