Jorge Ignacio Betancourt was born in Havana, Cuba on July 31, 1956 and died in the Chelsea and Westminster Hospital on the 6th July, 2015.

Jorge was diagnosed HIV positive in Feb, 1982 (before the virus even had a name). During those dark times, he was told three times by doctors that he was about to die and that he should say goodbye to his family. He lived for another 33 years, through sheer determination, and a sense that he had more goals to accomplish. He died having accomplished those goals. He attained everything he wanted; a beautiful home and garden, a fabulous career in interior design, and with me, his partner, Clayton Littlewood, by his side.

It's impossible in such a small space to summon up the character that was Jorge. But, having lived through such dark times, when all his friends died, when the stigma and lack of US Government help made survival a personal battle rather than a collective one, I know that, although his HIV status didn't rule his life (if anything it became just another challenge to conquer), rather than cut flowers at his funeral, he would've wanted the money to go to a good cause. Ironically it was colon cancer that ended his life, but this charity is one he obviously had a strong connection with. 

Jorge's funeral will be held at the West London Crematorium in Kensal Green on July 31st (his birthday) at 3pm, in the East Chapel. There will be a celebration of his life afterwards at The Mitre, 40 Holland Park Avenue, London W11 3QY. 

Another service and celebration will be taking place in Miami in August. Dates to be confirmed. 

Thank you for your donation.

Love,

Clayton Littlewood