Most states have a local AIDS foundation. Almost every AIDS foundation conducts fundraisers and benefits to raise money for AIDS research. An AIDS foundation can be a great place to start if you want to volunteer or get involved in the fight. Check your local AIDS foundation for local meetings and events.
A local AIDS Foundation usually focuses on the community it is located in; however your AIDS foundation may offer special events to raise money for other countries as well. Joining your state’s AIDS foundation can be an excellent way to meet other AIDS patients. An AIDS foundation can also usually provide information on local AIDS support groups in the area.
When you are in search of training materials or information pamphlets, check with the CDC. HIV informational resources can be obtained at no charge. Most schools and AIDS support groups use the CDC. HIV awareness programs promote the information found at the CDC. HIV and AIDS statistical data sheets can be downloaded, as well as PDF forms. One of the most complete informational resources on the internet is the CDC. HIV researchers report all their data to the CDC. HIV can be a very complicated virus to understand; if you or a family member have questions about how the disease progresses, a complete scientific explanation can be found on the CDC. HIV drugs and there side effects can be found as well. Be sure to check back often; any new advances of complications will be released by the CDC. HIV research has changes in the field often.
If you have been diagnosed with AIDS, one thing you should consider is finding an AIDS support group. When looking for AIDS support groups in your area, you may want to check the local phone book for listings. Another option for finding an AIDS support is to talk to your doctor and see if they know of any local groups. One thing to consider when choosing an AIDS support group are the stages of the other members. If you just found out you have HIV, you may not want to be in a group where members are in the later stages of the infection. You may also feel more comfortable in a same gender AIDS support group. While it can be great to know all the facts listed on the CDC, HIV understanding requires more than just data and numbers. If you are going to make it through, you will need an AIDS support group to pick you up when you feel like you are falling down. Whether you join the local AIDS Foundation, AIDS support group, or you just find comfort in the information on the CDC, HIV will be something that requires support and information to survive.