"Here's Hoping" by Philip Middleton Williams is a powerful play that packs intense emotions in sixteen short pages. Although (thankfully) medical science has made advances since this play was written, the story of the human condition -- the fears and need for human connection -- are just as relevant today.

PHILIP MIDDLETON WILLIAMS is one of the best playwrights I have come to know. “Here’s Hoping” brings to light what some know, others not so much: The pain and suffering of the person with the disease and those who are their parents, lovers, friends, and others who come in contact with them. The saddest thing, besides the horror of getting AIDS, I would think, is the belief by some that AIDS is a punishment from GOD. I highly recommend this play.

Though written in 1994, Williams' play still packs a punch. Thankfully, there are now treatments for HIV/AIDS that prolong life significantly. The play also reminds us of our current pandemic and the need to be united and smart about the ways to handle the virus and mitigate its damage. The dialogue is realistic and haunting - well done, sir!