How HIV Has Shaped My LifeHello there! My name is Shawn Decker and I’d like to share a little bit of info on how HIV has shaped my life. I was diagnosed with HIV at...Reactions0reactionsComments5 comments
Minutes with Jah: My Second Monkeypox Vaccine ExperienceLearn from Jahlove about his 2nd monkeypox vaccine dose experience. After having a traumatic experience receiving his 1st dose, he discusses why he decided to go back and how this...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments
Talking With FamilyI want to share with you all an experience that I had around World AIDS Day. Last year, in honor of World AIDS Day, I was invited to attend a...Reactions0reactionsComments3 comments
My Life With HIV and the BlahsDespite the gratitude journal and the affirmations posted in my bathroom, I sometimes feel uninspired about life for lengthy periods. Long-term living with HIV can be very repetitive. The daily...Reactions0reactionsComments6 comments
Let's Talk About Anal CancerThere is an increased incidence of anal cancer in people who live with HIV, which is why we should have an anal pap screening. I myself have had 2 screenings...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments
Transgender AwarenessI want to highlight the importance of raising awareness of the experiences and voices of both the transgender and gender non-conforming communities. This can be done through social media, education...Reactions0reactionsComments5 comments
Minutes with Jah: Nationwide HIV Home Testing Kit RolloutThe CDC is rolling out a national plan to ensure that everyone has access to a free home HIV testing kit. This is major because it can be very intimidating...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments
Importance of Exercise in People Living With HIVExercise may not be a priority if you are living with HIV, but it is essential for your health and well-being. There are many benefits for not only your body...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments
My Anxiety was Killing Me, So I Took 3 Deep BreathsI knew something was wrong when I cried every time I put my shoes on in the morning. It wasn't my feet that were hurting; it was everything else. Anxiety...Reactions0reactionsComments3 comments
Criminalization of HIV Status in the United StatesHIV criminalization laws in the United States are under scrutiny from the United Nations (UN) and the White House. Criminalization is making certain behaviors illegal or treating a person who...Reactions0reactionsComments3 comments
You Aren't AloneI want to express how important it is to spend time with family and friends. There was a moment in my life after my diagnosis when I felt alone. I...Reactions0reactionsComments5 comments
The Connection Between Lipodystrophy and HIVLipodystrophy is a side effect of some drugs used to treat people living with HIV. These drugs are older medicines that are rarely used in the United States today. Lipodystrophy...Reactions0reactionsComments4 comments
Christmas and DepressionAs the cold front moved in, I began to feel the desire to decorate the Christmas tree. This is highly unusual for me. Last year I only decorated the Christmas...Reactions0reactionsComments8 comments
Forever ThankfulThis time of year, I am always so thankful for what I have in life. There are so many times in my life that I have taken things for granted...Reactions0reactionsComments3 comments
Minutes with Jah: Big Things and New AspirationsMental health check-in! It has been some time since I've done a mental health check-in with you all. So I wanted to give you an update on where I am...Reactions0reactionsComments3 comments
My Tips on Surviving the Holidays and Living With HIVIt doesn't take a lot for me to get excited about the holidays. I always love the feeling in the air with the festive decorations, delicious food, and holiday music...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments
7 Tips for Attending In-Person Events SafelyThe combination of winter months, holidays, and an ongoing pandemic can create challenges for those living with HIV who are susceptible to illnesses that threaten their immune system. Patient leaders...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments
Minutes with Jah: USCHA and Medical MistrustA recently attended the NMAC United States Conference on HIV and AIDS in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and I had a blast. While at the conference, I sat on a...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments
For Me, for You, for Our Community: World AIDS DayEach year, on December 1st, I celebrate World AIDS Day alongside my community. This day is one that I cherish every year because it raises awareness and sparks conversations across...Reactions0reactionsComments1 comments
World AIDS Day: A Day of Mourning or Celebration?In Houston, Texas 2005, I was working at an organization named AVES, which is no longer in service. I was the event coordinator, educator, and public relations person. If you...Reactions0reactionsComments2 comments