Truth Is...We all need to Protect Ourselves

This past Saturday people across the globe celebrated World AIDS Day. For some of us it was just another day that came and went. For others, you got tested, reflected on friends/family who have been affected by the disease, or helped to fight the cause. Why is HIV/AIDS a disease we only discuss one day a year and on  that one day it may not get noted at all?

That's a question I often ask. It always seems like the Winter months are those in which people want to be more giving and caring but why not care all year round?

It is important to understand that HIV/AIDS in America and foreign countries is at a progressive high. Majority of new cases of HIV/AIDS is seen in youth ages 14-24 (most high among women) and senior citizens ages 60 and up! We've know that this disease was an epidemic but not it is a plague that we haven't even begun to put out on the fire on in such a hypersexualized cultural society.

I commend Magic Johnson for sharing his story as he has been HIV positive for 25 years. Take a look at his story.

Imagine being at the top of your career and leaving it all behind? Imagine people attacking your life based on a stigmatic lifestyle they believe is connected with the disease but doesn't have a place in your home? Imagine  your friends walking away from you? I encourage you to watch the full documentary to see how Magic is helping others through telling his story.

I commend Marsha Ambrosius for telling this story through music....

See how simple that was. Thank you Marsh for showing this young culture that this is just like a pack of Now and Laters. Protect yourself NOW to Prevent Later!


I also commend Alicia Keys for her work with her foundation Keep A Child Alive! Here's the work she's doing....

You have to educate yourself on the disease in order to help the cause and that is what Ms. Keys has done. Not only is she helping others but she is reaching out to educate others so they too can help.

When I was in high school I interned with an infectious disease department at a local hospital. By far one of the greatest experiences of my life. The things I learned equipped me for my adolescent years and I was able to share with my friends. A movie that the education counsel had me watch was called "One Week". Each year on World AIDS Day I share it with family and friends so they can see how real this disease is...

I'm going to leave you with this short film in it's 2-part essence....and you tell me...will you protect now to prevent later...educate others...and fight for the cause?