If you know that you are HIV-positive, that means that at some time you answered "Yes" to the question, "Should I take the HIV antibody test?" It's likely you've been grappling with questions ever since.
Perhaps you've asked yourself, your friends, and your doctor whether AZT, ddI, ddC, or combination therapy is right for you - or, whether to avoid antiretroviral therapy. Have you wondered how to talk with your doctor? Do you have questions about T-cell counts?... viral load tests? Have you thought about whether you're safe with an HIV-positive partner?... a pet?...in sunlight? What about the flu vaccine?... vitamins?... acupuncture?... coping with stress? Do you think about what you're eating? As a woman, do you wonder whether your choices and options are different from a man's? If you've been feeling well - doing okay - are you wondering "What now?"
Sylvia Lopez, Wellness Program Coordinator for AIDS Services of Austin, will present an introductory three-part series for people with HIV infection. The program offers a practical guide for addressing questions and exploring options for maintaining health, and managing HIV. The course is especially appropriate for those with early HIV infection and/or those who have just learned of their HIV disease.
"Taking Charge--Strategies for Healthy Living," will be offered 6:30-9pm Tuesday evenings, October 17 & 24, and Monday, October 30 at ASA, 825 E. 531/2 St., Suite E-104. A $5 donation per session is requested, but participation is welcome for any amount, and no one will be barred for lack of money. Refreshments will be served. Attendance at all three parts is strongly encouraged but not required. Anyone who was unable to attend a session of an earlier "Taking Charge" series and past participants interested in receiving updated information are welcome to attend.
Information from recent conferences on HIV/AIDS has been incorporated into the "Taking Charge" series. At these conferences researchers reported on emerging strategies for monitoring and managing HIV disease.
At the '93 International Conference on AIDS, healthy behaviors and a personal involvement in medical care were the factors most frequently cited by the long-term survivors. Studies have shown that HIV+ men and women who take an active approach to promoting health of body, mind, and spirit fare better than those who only react to illness, and fare much better than those who do not act at all.
For more information about course topics and to register, call Sylvia Lopez at 406-6162.