E-Link News October

Thank you to those who attended October's Link discussion focused on our HIV treatments, managing our side effects, and current functional cure research.

I hope you found our discussion as meaningful as I did in terms of identifying great ways to mitigate common side effects. All of the input was valuable and I must say, one of my favorite things mentioned in terms of an effective tool against side effects was summarized with one word: attitude.

Before our discussion ended, some Link participants asked that I send out the functional cure video clips we showed and discussed. I'm sending you these clips below:

Dr. Fauci's (NIH) Video - HERE

Sangamo's Gene Therapy Research - HERE

Dr. Picker's (OHSU) Vaccine Research - HERE

Dr. Margolis' (UNC) Research on the Reservoir- HERE

While it may be possible this research will lead to a future cure, I think it bears repeating that each of us contributes to a form of a cure today. Through caring for each other, in supporting others who may be struggling living with HIV, with understanding of stigma mitigating it with awareness and education: each of us plays a vital role. I think it never hurts to be hopeful that someday, a medical cure may come. In the meantime we all part of creating a cure right now.

Best Always,

Benjamin Gerritz

Prevention with Positives Coordinator

Cascade AIDS Project

Let's Kick ASS PDX

A huge thank you to Jim Clay who joined us during October's Link meeting to share information about the grassroots movement known as Let's Kick ASS (AIDS Survivor Syndrome) PDX.

Portland is one of only a few cities in the US where Let's Kick ASS is happening. Whether you self identify as a Long-Term Survivor or not, Let's Kick ASS PDX is open to everyone including HIV-negative supporters.

When Jim shared information about Let's Kick ASS PDX with us, he mentioned the movement will be hosting a forum at Friendly House in NW Portland this Saturday called, "From Shaming to Reclaiming: a 90 Minute Workshop on AIDS Survivor Syndrome, and the Beginning of a Global Movement."

Saturday's event promises to be incredibly powerful and inspirational. More info about Saturday's forum as well as everything happening within Let's Kick ASS PDX can be found HERE

PrEP Talk with HIV Doc Luncheon

Perhaps you've heard of PrEP, perhaps you're wondering what is PrEP?

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis and some consider PrEP (a pill for HIV-negative people to take to avert HIV infection) to be an HIV prevention game changer while others are saying not so fast.

Regardless the feelings about PrEP, CAP will be hosting a catered, educational luncheon with Dr. Ruben Gamundi to discuss the facts about the newest tool in the toolkit for HIV prevention.

This luncheon will be held on the 8th floor at Cascade AIDS Project this Tuesday at 2pm.

PrEP Talk with HIV Doc Luncheon

Tuesday, October 14

2pm to 3pm

CAP Boardroom (8th Floor)

208 SW 5th Ave. #800

If you haven't yet, please RSVP HERE

HIV Doc Talk Dinner

Also, on Tuesday, October 14, we are fortunate that Dr. Lisa Capaldini is coming to facilitate a conversation about HIV at 6pm in the Pine Rm. (first floor CAP building down the hall from the elevators).

Many of us are likely familiar with Lisa as she is a renowned doctor from the Bay Area and and all around incredible person.

HIV Doc Talk Dinner

Tuesday, October 14

6pm

Pine Rm.

(first floor CAP building)

Got a question you'd like the Dr. Capaldini to answer but would like to submit anonymously? Feel free to send it across to me with your RSVP (if you haven't already) and I'll make sure Dr. Capaldini gets your pre-submitted question/s. RSVP and question submissions HERE

You, Me, and Hep C

On Wednesday, October 15 from 5:00-7:00pm, Pivot will be hosting a speaker and discussion about Hep C.

There will complimentary food provided and all are welcome to attend.

You, Me, and Hep C

Wednesday, October 15

5pm to 7pm

Pivot

209 SW 4th Ave.

Please RSVP with Adam HERE or through the Facebook event page HERE

In the Link

Let's Kick ASS PDX

PrEP Talk with HIV Doc

More in October

+alk

Let's +alk about sex and meet new POZ guys in the five session +alk program.

New +alks start monthly with incentives awarded for completing.

For more info or to register contact

Benjamin

Money, Money, Mondays

Starting this October, Cascade AIDS Project is partnering with Unitus Communty Credit Union to offer Money, Money, Mondays in the Client Services Center in Pivot.

In addition to learning about finances, a meal will be provided courtesy of Unitus.

For more information

please contact

SHYLE

Concientizate

A celebration of Latino arts, music, and culture at Refuge

116 SE Yamhill on Thursday, October 16 at 5:30pm.

More information on

Facebook

Dia De Los Muertos

Tomorrow, on Friday, October 10, Pivot will be hosting a special event in recognition of the arts of Day of the Dead celebrations from 5pm to 7pm.

Pivot's current featured artist, Frankie Olivo, will be leading a workshop for making traditional pop up altars.

Everyone is welcome to attend this free event.

For more info, please visit the Pivot online calendar

HERE

Linked . . . In?

Community News

Fire In The Blood

One of the most powerful films about HIV is coming to Portland for a free screening at the First Unitarain Church located on SW 12th Ave. between Main and Salmon St.

The film will be shown on Thursday, October 16 at 6pm.

Watch the

TRAILER

Spotlight on Community Partner BRO

Many of us are familiar with Basic Rights Oregon, a leader promoting equality and building equity for all Oregonians.

Basic Rights Oregon has achieved a great deal this past year. Winning on love with marriage equality, now legally recognized in Oregon. Then, the recent success with the effort led by BRO to have the Oregon Health Plan adopt trans-inclusive healthcare.

Despite these successes, much work focused on racial and LGBTQ equity still needs to be done and with everyone's support of BRO, Oregon will become a state that is more inclusive.

To find out more about BRO as well as volunteer opportunities visit

HERE