HIV Long-Term Survivor Support Group
I've led the HIV Long-Term Survivor support group at JRI in Boston for four years now. The members of this group support each other in the truest sense of the word. We discuss daily quality of life issues which include disclosure concerns, medication compliance, medication side effects and holistic approaches for reducing them, and strengthening the immune system.
We also support each other by accompanying each other to medical appointments or picking members up following hospital stays and by checking on them during recovery from procedures. We reach out to each other by phone, between groups, to offer support on issues such as relationships and managing work-related stress. This group makes a concerted effort to attend community events in an effort to lesson stigma around HIV by demonstrating unity and compassion toward all in our community and by setting a good example as role-models who have survived HIV for 20+ years.
Annemarie
Posted September 1st, 2008Dear Rob, Your caring and kindness are beyond measure. I love that you are in my life…and that you help me fill my daily “hug quota” when I come to work. Your support and consideration have been invaluable to me, as too many others, and your deep and abiding consideration for those around you has meant so much too so many.
Much Love, Annemarie
Anonymous
Posted August 27th, 2008Hey Rob,
Great job on keeping me strong and healthy. I'm very proud that you have the courage to make yourself so public. I don't think I would be able to. You have helped and encouraged so many people in your life and also have given your friendship as well. Thank you for being who you are and for caring so much.
Karen (aka Best Friend)
Posted August 25th, 2008Wow, Rob. This website came out really well. Your bio can only tell a part of the story. The part I remember best is that both of us kept each other on track - because that is what friends do. You've had so many friends do that for you and it was such an honor to participate in this excellent endeavor. We've both gone through the loss of too many best friends because of HIV/AIDS. Again I'll say to you - you're a survivor & you always will be - so get a 401K plan and start saving for retirement!!! It's been the music we've shared together along with some miraculous moments that has kept our bond strong - but ultimately, it's your sense of the joy of life & the need to share it. Thank you so much, my friend - for leading me to know my inner Jedi for Jesus, for taking me to the Twin Towers with Bill to give me some perspective, and for staying in touch throughout the changes in our lives.
Love you tons, honey!
Ed Hatlee
Posted August 23rd, 2008Robert, I cannot really find the words to say just how proud I am of you for all that you have done in recent years. You know how far back we go, as I sit here thinking of all the good times we have had, the days of partying, the shock of loosing certain friends, the different illnesses. You know me, "teach by example" is my favorite saying, and you Robert are a perfect example of just that. We sometimes forget just what is important in life, you seem to always point that out and bring reality back into focus. As I continue my journey in this dimension I will continue to look toward you for guidance. Be well my friend and spread your positive energy to the masses, for it is too few of you that this world suffers.
Stef - Rob's supervisor
Posted August 22nd, 2008Rob brings such dedication to his work with people living with mental illness and addiction. He is an inspiration to work with and his passion is contagious. For all your energy that you bring to the chorus, drumming circle, yoga group and clinical case management services here at work - bravo and thank you Rob!
Rob trae una gran dedicación a su trabajo con la gente que vive con enfermedades mentales y adicciones. Él es una inspiración para trabajar y su pasión es contagiosa. Rob, bravo y gracias por toda la energía que traes al coro, al círculo de tambores, al grupo de yoga y a los servicios de manejo de casos clínico acá en el trabajo.
Post new comment