I write to you in reference to Evelyn Lau's piece 15 amazing portraits from pet photoshoots in Dubai (September 13).
I love reading stories about volunteers taking care of stray cats. I moved to Abu Dhabi years ago and I was never really interested in the subject. Then one day, I found a kitten in the parking of my building and I could not turn my back on it.
One year later, I am so grateful and I can’t explain how much joy the company of a pet can bring into the family. Later I decided to rescue another cat from a shelter.
I wish The National had a regular section on the activities and stories of the volunteers who work so hard to help stray animals.
Gianfranco di Gennaro, Abu Dhabi
Those living with HIV deserve to live a life of respect and dignity
I write to you in reference to Nick Webster's article World Aids Day: Drug breakthroughs and changing attitudes mean a better life for those with HIV in UAE (December 1): this piece filled my heart with joy. I was active on the frontlines of the fight against Aids in its early days and witnessed the stigma associated with the disease. Families abandoned their children and many – including in western governments – sought to quarantine people who were HIV positive.
I am incredibly proud and humbled by the three gentlemen who were willing to share their stories with Mr Webster.
HIV transmission is increasing in the Middle East, a trend that goes against the global decline of the virus. More needs to be done to educate the public about transmission, prevention, early testing and, most importantly, prevent those who suffer from it to be stigmatised. As a compassionate, tolerant and forward-thinking nation, the UAE has shown that it is in a good position to do just that.
I wish Adnad, Bu Mohammed, Tarek and all others living with HIV long and happy lives. And I hope that those who love them will treat them as they otherwise would if they had not contracted the disease.
Elan Fabbri, Dubai
Another glorious win for legendary Formula One racer Lewis Hamilton
I write to you in reference to a photograph by Reuters shared on The National’s Facebook page, featuring Formula One winner Lewis Hamilton after he won this year’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Congratulations to Lewis Hamilton, a world-class F1 driver.
Evon Rawlings, UAE