Amberlynne, 24
What I Want You to Know:
I used to get tested every year with my annual gynecologist appointment, but since I have been working at Women Alive, my boyfriend and I test every six months.
Why I think it's important to challenge HIV/AIDS stereotypes:
It's very important for people to realize that anyone can get HIV. It's not a gay disease or a drug user's problem...it's everyone's problem.
How HIV/AIDS has affected my life:
It is impossible to work in the HIV field and not become passionate about it. I feel so strongly about what our clients go through on a daily basis. I would like people to know how to protect themselves from HIV, but also how to enrich the lives of those affected by HIV. You cannot "get it" by a sneeze or a hug, a kiss, or tears shared. Hopefully, through education and love we can break down the walls and debunk myths about HIV and AIDS.
How I contribute to the fight against HIV:
I work for a non-profit organization that wants to reduce the growing numbers of heterosexual Black and Latina women who are getting HIV at alarming rates in Los Angeles County. I want to emphasize safer sex by using condoms, dental dams, etc. regularly and creating a healthy relationship in which to communicate openly and effectively about condom usage, cheating, etc.
