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Dr. Patrick Drake (played by Jason Thompson) came to Port Charles to perform an operation that his father, Noah, couldn't do. And now that he has decided to stay, we can see that two Drakes are better than one.

When Patrick first arrived, he was all business and very withdrawn, with Robin Scorpio (Kimberly McCullough) taking an immediate disliking to him. Patrick was so withdrawn, in fact, that he really couldn't have cared less. But all that is beginning to change.

"The more he sees (of Robin), the more he gets to glimpse into her life, the more respect he develops for her," Jason explains. "He saw a compassion in her that he wasn't used to."

ROBIN'S SUPPORT

And now that Patrick is faced with the possibility of perhaps having contracted HIV (he cut himself while operating on an AIDS patient), he and the HIV-positive Robin have a bond on quite another level. "He's always accused her of hiding behind her disease, but as he sees what she's gone through, he sees how difficult it will most likely be for him."

Now, at a time when Patrick can really use Robin's support, he's starting to pull away. As Jason explains: "He has some fear right now. He doesn't want to risk her and her health. He could have a different strain (of the disease) and possibly compromise her immune system."

"Plus," he adds, "there's also the whole 'fear of commitment' issue."

SENSITIVE ISSUES

General Hospital has always been on the cutting edge and responsible when dealing with sensitive issues such as this, and Jason finds it a privilege to be a part of such a story line.

"I feel fortunate to be able to go there with this story line. We're bringing it into a different light; HIV doesn't affect only those who are gay, drug users or have blood transfusions. It can happen in the most sterile environment. It's an honor to play a character facing his own mortality."

Jason also feels fortunate to be playing opposite one of the original teen heartthrobs in GH history. His character's father, Dr. Noah Drake, is played by actor and rock star Rick Springfield.

"I wish we worked together more, but he's been touring. When I first started we had a lot of scenes together. Rick is very gracious, sweet and kind of quiet on the set. But when we start working, he is very open and available with an endless amount of energy. It's a real privilege to work with him."

Coming to a soap opera with so much history can be a bit daunting for any actor, but Jason just took it for what it was. "I don't remember a lot about those first few days of shooting - I was just trying to hold on. I felt like I was being shot out of a canon. I mean, these are all iconic figures who are a part of American history."

As for Jason's future, family is a big deal to him. "I have an amazing family, so I want to make that my No. 1 priority - having a wife and kids down the line is a big priority to me." He also hopes that his work - whatever he happens to be doing - brings him happiness and success. "We'll see what comes up."