I try not to be a broken record with posts on either Facebook or my blogs, and lately I sense broken record, but we are are leaving for Africa in just 7 days and the pressure to provide all the outreach and education that we can is strong.

I am particularly sensitive to the topic of this treatment update.  Over the course of the past 20 years, I continue to be impressed by the breadth and strength of the issue of Stigma for the persons I work with and those that I know who are living with HIV. Virtually  none of them are open about their HIV, and most do not want their picture used even as "allies" for those with HIV.  There was a short period in which I felt that this were changing after the beginning of HART (highly active antiretroviral agents) when it seemed that the whole idea of disclosure was popular.  Well, that is not happening and we look forward with Stigma forever etched in our brains.  So, let us talk about it.  What are the reasons that people are loathe to disclose their status.  What difference does it make? And where do we go now?

Anyway, come down to Gracie's CAFE (040 Trent Building) and join our discussion!

Global Connections For Change Hosts a 5K Walk and Run and Health Fair, Saturday September 7th

So does anyone know about Global Connections for Change? This is a small non-profit organization that has helped several local and international causes over the years, and this year has chosen our Duke Infectious Diseases Community as the recipients of their fundraising activities.   It is with pride that I invite anyone who loves to run, and anyone who loves to walk to attend this event which will begin at 10:00 am with registrations and the welcome to the health fair that accompanies.

This exciting day will help to support the John A. Bartlett CARE Fund, a small emergency fund that supports our HIV-infected patients when there is no other support available, for medicines or medical equipment, rental deposits, assistance with dental care, utilities, special nutritional supplies, and other essential items that in this difficult time are simply crucial for people who are waiting for disability or Medicaid, have had a hospitalization or other emergency that has left them in sudden dire circumstances.  Our professional social workers and case manager do a thorough assessment to ensure the integrity of the expenditure, and during this time, assist with money management, contacting other "helping" agencies, and professional counseling to help our folks for the long term.

The day will also support Outreach Educational Events with our Community Advisory Board and Duke ID team.  These events include pertinent issues for the Durham, NC and Moshi, Tanzania Community, such as HIV-Basics, HIV-Prevention, HIV & other sexually transmitted infections, HIV & Depression, Mental illness, and/or Substance Use.  In Moshi, Tanzania and in Duke HIV Pediatrics, many issues pertaining to  HIV-Mother to Child Transmission Prevention, and the Transition from pediatrics to adult care are apparent & currently unmet by the standard agencies in the area.  Our Community Advisory Board Youth pair with an adviser to help other HIV-infected young people grapple with these issues, using their knowledge from their Community Advisory Board trainings to reach out to their community.  Three cheers to the Duke Infectious Diseases experts who donate their time to  these outreaches, and to the Moshi Advisers who donate their time to the support of these young people.

But, we need your help and your participation.  On September 7th, agencies throughout the Duke Community and Durham will display their materials on the grassy field adjacent to the Al Buehler trail.  The run and walk registration starts at 10:00 and the health fair with music, food and performances by our own Purina Chow follow the race and will create a joyous atmosphere for everyone.  The cost is minimal!!!  For Adults, just $20 and for Students, just $15 will help our programs to survive and continue to provide much needed information and support for those who have requested assistance and education.

So come on out!--Take a look at the Moshi CAB, and check out the Global Connections for Change Website to see previous races!!!  We welcome you to the day.

Here is a Happy Moshi CAB-- "support our youth!!!"

And here is nearly the whole gang in Moshi!