For over 20 years December 1st has served as a day to remember those lost to AIDS and to bring awareness to the largest epidemic known to man. Since the first World Aids Day in 1988 the rate of infection has slowed down but there are still many strides to be made.
Routinely getting tested for HIV is crucial in stopping the spread of the virus and early detection can cripple the rate of infection and improve health outcomes for those who have tested positive.
Unfortunately many social and cultural stigmas surrounding HIV/AIDS exist preventing us from moving forward in the fight against this epidemic. Through my platform “De-stigmatizing Getting Tested” I plan to address stigmas surrounding HIV/AIDS in an effort to create dialog that will encourage and empower people to take control of their sexual health.
I ask all of you reading this post to do your part for World Aids Day and make it a priority to get tested this December. The likelihood of contracting this virus seems farfetched to many but the reality is that HIV sees no race, color or creed and it does not discriminate against its victims. HIV is no longer a death sentence and knowing your status can be lifesaving.
Empower yourself and know your status! Visit http://www.hivtest.org/ to find a testing site near you.
Thank you for taking the time out to read my first post of many and thanks in advance to those of you who will be joining in the fight against HIV/AIDS by getting tested!
Sincerely,
Carmen B. Mendoza
Miss Kings County 2011
