What I learned about HIV

On Saturday, I attended Body + Soul's volunteer orientation. I was able to talk to about 50 of the 150 volunteers and get better acquainted with staff! There were about 6-7 different options for workshops; the three workshops I attended were: HIV: Beginner's Guide, Adults Living with HIV, and How to Facilitate Groups with Teens. As I sat through these workshops, I realized a few things-- one, I barely know anything about HIV and two, HIV is a costly, time-consuming virus that takes a toll on your self-esteem and relationships.

Here are a few facts I learned:

1. The health care system in Britain, covers all HIV meds, but people are still in need of supplements, healthy food, and other treatments. This is not covered by the State and is costly to individuals often leading them to file for bankruptcy
2. Prevention programs in the UK are virtually nonexistent; the last campaign took place in the early-mid 1990's
3. Most of what I learned about HIV, up until this point, was not taught in schools or by public awareness campaigns, but from a Golden Girls episode
4. It's possible to have negative children even if you or your partner, or both are positive
5. HIV meds have a long list of side effects including: fatigue, diarrhea, hallucinations (particularly in dreams), insomnia, not to mention the psychological effects as a result of stigma that invites isolation, depression, anxiety.
6. Every pregnant woman is tested for HIV in the UK

Stay tuned for more information...

New Job! New Dress!

Today has been fantastic! The weather is beautiful. It's one of those days where the sun peaks out through the gray-blue clouds and the weather goes from sprinkling to raining. Perfect, crisp London day!

I applied for a job at Body + Soul, a charity that provides support, advocacy and education to people living with HIV. I was called back for an interview, and to my relief, did not make it for the second round of interviews for that particular position. After learning more during the interview, I realized its a bit much for a full-time student to handle, but I thought I'd wait for the call at the end of the week to see what happens.

I was surprised to get a call the very next day from the head of the organization asking if I might be open to other positions (they were still considering candidates for the original job I applied to). We talked and I went in today to interview for a position in the Adult Services Program. I was really flattered that they went out of their way to fit me into their organization (where was this love in DC???) They showed me around their beautiful 5-story building and told me to expect a call by the end of the today or Monday. Lo and behold, I get home and they call! They've offered me a part-time position to run the young adults program! I am so flattered. It's a new position--so room for growth!! My future career path as a therapist fits into it perfectly as I would run support groups for young adults and practice my counseling skills.

In other exciting news, I got a wonderful package from my wonderful bff, Fanny Pak. It's a dress we've both been eyeing at Anthropologie (my favorite store) and she not only got it for herself, but for her favorite missus as well! I've included two pictures of it, one with Fanny modeling the dress all Anthropologie-d out and the other from their website. Will look great with my vintage cowboy boots!