A Story of Rededication

Judge Miller’s focus on health—both mental and physical—began in high school. But Judge Miller’s story is not one of a constant, unwavering commitment to fitness that he has successfully maintained. Instead, it is a story of committing and recommitting to health and fitness as many times as it takes. In doing so, Judge Miller found motivation and purpose while also being of service to, and unquestionably serving as a role model for, countless others.

As a junior in high school, Judge Miller suffered from ulcerative colitis, a chronic disease that causes inflammation in the digestive tract. He treated the condition by eating healthy and exercising. And, when the condition reemerged in college, primarily triggered by stress, Judge Miller treated it again by running and working out.

In 2006, Judge Miller was confronted by something entirely different. He was diagnosed with HIV, which he contracted from a longtime partner who never shared his condition. He initially disregarded his health altogether, culminating in a diagnosis of AIDS in 2009. Judge Miller now found himself dealing with the external stigma of AIDS and, maybe more importantly, with a profound internal stigma and range of emotions.

Something had to give. He realized that others may be confronting the same, or similar, experi- ences. In 2010, Judge Miller created LIVE Consortium to provide HIV and anti-stigma education, support, research, and advocacy. LIVE’s purpose is to provide all people, regardless of status, with the opportunity to live healthy and full lives.

Dealing with, and overcoming, those internal and external stigmas began with Judge Miller publicly telling his story to almost 200 individuals at a LIVE event. Although he was “hugely anxious” before the inaugural event, Judge Miller was met with love and acceptance afterward. Several others also participated by telling their stories during later events.

During COVID, Judge Miller rededicated himself to fitness, as well as to weekly meal preparation and early morning workouts, and he found “fitness friends” to provide him with comradery and accountability. Likewise, he collaborated with a professional trainer who guides, teaches, and assists him and provides a measure of accountability and a commitment to form. For Judge Miller, the key is maintaining a schedule and setting goals.

Through it all, Judge Miller’s commitment to good health has positively impacted his mental and physical wellbeing and has also touched and inspired countless people with his story of courage and service to others.