Are you living in the Southern US?
August 20 is HIV in the South Awareness Day. Are you a person living with HIV and in the South? What do you wish others would understand about your experiences, and what resources have you found useful?
Alafia (Peace)
I am living with HIV and I live in the South. Eight of the top ten cities with the highest rates of HIV are in the Deep South. There are many infrastructure issues and because I have lived up North I know what should be available. I would love to hear from others who live in the South. Khafre (H-I-V.net Team Member) I have always felt like if I lived in the North that maybe the Stigma would not be as bad. Do you feel like there was a difference with the stigma or just that there are more resources? - Heather R (team member) There is a difference and more resources. Khafre (H-I-V.net Team Member)
I live in Miami, I was diagnosed back in 96, I have never had the opportunity to talk or belong to all women's group. I have always felt very alone here as I don't have anyone that I can talk to about my issues dealing with my status. I would like some resources to get me in touch with a group here. Alafia (Peace) Thank you for reaching out to us. Are you connected to any Facebook groups specifically for people who are living with HIV? I am sure you will find women in the Miami area on those groups. Go to Facebook and search HIV and check out the groups
I live in Mississippi. Talk about the deep south. My family and friends have all been very understanding and loving. I've done lots of research and education with people in my area who request it and am always interested in reaching out to others. Alafia (Peace) That is how we build community. Thank you for all you do. Khafre (H-I-V.net Team Member) Alafia (Peace) Do folks come to you as a resource? If so, you have a responsibility to make sure the information you provide is accurate. I say that so you look for and use the best resources. Khafre (H-I-V.net Team Member)
I live in Mississippi and I was diagnosed in gosh, I can't even recall when it was. I believe it was 13 years ago..maybe14 or 15 years ago. It's been quiet a long time for me. Mississippi is definitely the deepest of the deep. But I must say that my experience has been very understanding. I have been open about my diagnosis with people and everyone has been very understanding.
Good to hear Khafre (H-I-V.net Team Member) Alafia (Peace) Yes, Mississippi is the Deep South and the State has many challenges
