Latinas are five times more likely to contract the HIV virus

In honor of World AIDS Day – Damaries Cruz’s story:

How do you think you were infected?

I know how I was infected — it was by my fiancé at the time. I met him and I asked him if he was positive, if he ever tested, and he said, “Yes, I’m negative.” Then I started to have a lot of yeast infections for a whole year, vaginal infections. The doctor thought that I had cancer and he said, “Go and get tested for cancer. Do a biopsy, because I’m sure you have cancer. Do HIV just to rule it out.” The biopsy came back negative and the HIV test came back positive.

When I went home and I told my fiancé, he said, “I knew I was going to take someone with me. I never thought it was going to be you.” He knew all along that he had it!

Every 9½ minutes someone in the US is infected with HIV. Act Against AIDS. Be the Solution: NineAndaHalfMinutes.org

Spread the love

More Articles for You

On Growing up in East Harlem: Italian (Barese) and Puerto Rican Heritage

I was thrilled to chat with podcaster, and fellow author and family historian Bob Sorrentino earlier this month. During our …

Spread the love

Food Culture: The Best Podcast for “Top Chef” Fans

The food we eat, how we eat and prepare it is so intricately tied to our culture, our heritage and …

Spread the love

The “Frida In Her Own Words” Documentary Is Phenomenal

This lyrical animation inspired by her unforgettable artwork, drawn from her diary, revealing letters, essays, and print interviews for the …

Spread the love

Reading Haiti: 5 Books to Explore Its History and Culture

Edwidge Danticat is one of Haiti’s most celebrated authors. Her notable works include “Breath, Eyes, Memory,” “Krik? Krak!,” and “The …

Spread the love

Finding Relief: 5 Books to Help Manage Chronic Pain

Living with chronic pain can be challenging, but there are resources available to help navigate this journey. Whether you’re looking …

Spread the love

Frida Kahlo As An Iconic Disability Advocate

PBS is once again featuring Frida Kahlo in a new three part documentary series, airing now that seeks to to …

Spread the love