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Chattanooga Fire Station Unveils New Baby Box for Safe Infant Surrender

Camm Ashford
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Chattanooga Fire Station Unveils New Baby Box for Safe Infant Surrender

In a significant step toward protecting vulnerable newborns, the Chattanooga Fire Department has installed a new Safe Haven Baby Box at Fire Station 6, offering parents in crisis a secure and anonymous way to surrender their infants.

Chattanooga parents facing an unimaginable situation now have a new lifeline–a Safe Haven Baby Box installed at Fire Station 6, 4510 Bonny Oaks Dr.

The temperature-controlled device, located at 4510 Bonny Oaks Dr., was unveiled last Tuesday during a ceremony attended by fire department personnel, city leaders and Safe Haven officials. The installation makes Chattanooga the latest Tennessee city to join a growing network of over 280 Safe Haven Baby Box locations across the United States.

“We want parents across the entire area to know that they can turn to the Chattanooga Fire Department when they are in crisis and rest assured that their newborns will be safe,” Chattanooga Fire Chief Phil Hyman said. “This is about protecting and saving the lives of children, and we are honored to be a part of the expanding Safe Haven Baby Box program.”

The Baby Box, installed in an exterior wall of the fire station, features a secure door that, when opened, allows parents to place their newborn in a temperature-controlled environment. Once the door is closed, sensors immediately alert firefighters, who provide medical care until Hamilton County Emergency Medical Service arrives to transport the infant to the nearest hospital for evaluation.

The project came to fruition through the efforts of local resident Carol Burhenn, whose daughter adopted a son through a similar Baby Box program in Vienna, Austria. Local businessman and philanthropist Read Taylor provided the funding necessary to bring the program to Chattanooga.

Fire Station 6 was strategically chosen for its accessibility, being located near Highway 153 and major interstate systems. Parents who utilize the Baby Box will find an orange bag containing resources, including information about state protection laws, postpartum care, and a registry for sharing the child’s medical history confidentially.

The installation is protected under Tennessee’s Safe Haven Law, which legally permits parents to surrender their newborns without fear of prosecution. While mothers have 30 days to reconsider their decision, they receive an identification number to track their child’s status through the Department of Children’s Services.

Tennessee currently has 12 Safe Haven Baby Box locations, including sites in Jackson, Lawrenceburg, Springfield and Knoxville, with additional locations planned for Atoka, Rocky Top, and East Ridge. The initiative aims to eventually place at least one Baby Box in each of Tennessee’s 95 counties.

For biological fathers who may be uncertain about their child’s fate, the state offers a putative father registry. By registering, fathers can receive potential notifications if their child has been surrendered through the Safe Haven Baby Box program.

Parents in crisis can reach the Safe Haven Crisis Line 24/7 at 1-866-99BABY1 for support and guidance.

Thank you Mr. Rosenblatt!

Terry Howard
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Thank you Mr. Rosenblatt!

There I was, sullen and sitting in a local coffee shop three weeks removed from the recent election trying to figure out how on earth it turned out that way.  Stunned? Well, (good grammar aside) that be me.

Now the fact is that I’d published two election related columns recently and was stuck midway through a third one when I took a break, refilled my cup, aimlessly flipped through my newspaper and came across a column by Roger Rosenblatt, author of “Unless It Moves the Human Heart: The Craft and Art of Writing.”

Now I’d not thought much about Rosenblatt’s book – and forgot that I actually had a copy – until I read his recent piece, “How to Be a Writer in the second Age of Trump.”  Wow, talk about an attention getter, the juxtaposition of the words “Writer” and “Trump” in the same title snared my attention. Why? Because after reading it – several times in fact – Rosenblatt’s piece turned out to be what I needed and when I needed it. You see, although writing about Trump during times of Trump may be a boon for some, for others it’s downright exhausting.

Here’s how he started:

“When I woke last week to the news that Donald Trump had been elected president once again, my first impulse was to write. This is not unusual for me. I have been writing my way through difficult times for more than 60 years.”

A few lines down he continued, “But whenever I found myself lost in anger, anguish or confusion, the answer for how I could get through it has been the same: Put pen to paper.”

Now good writing, writes Rosenblatt, requires four things: precision of language, the freedom to say anything, respect and – perhaps most important – love. So for the rest of this narrative, I’ll look at those good writing requisites and follow with my reaction to each starting with “precision.”

“The simple reason precision is essential in writing is that it allows both the writer and reader a clear and shared understanding. One must be precise in all facets of writing. If you need three adjectives to describe something, you have the wrong something.”

Ahh, you got me on this one Mr. Rosenblatt. I’ll admit that when it comes to precision, I’m sometimes guilty of lack thereof and often wordsmith to the extreme. So yes, I have work to do here but your point is well taken.  

On “freedom,” he writes, “The writer depends on total freedom to write what she wants to write, say what she wants to say in a form of her choosing. Freedom is what gives the writer power.”

Here I say, “amen” Mr. Rosenblatt and if you walked into this coffee shop at this very minute, I’d gladly pick up the tab for your favorite latte. What writer freedom means to me is freedom to push boundaries, annoy, educate, reeducate, validate, invalidate and, in the words of the late civil rights icon John Lewis, “Get in good trouble necessary to redeem the soul of America.”

Now Rosenblatt’s last two requisites – “respect” and “love” – led to a double take by yours truly followed by a bit of introspection. He wrote, “An author respects all his characters because he recognizes that we are all flawed and that everyone fails.”

Well, I get that, especially his no brainer about our flaws and failures. But here’s what he wrote that made me depart a tad from what he suggests (the italics are mine).

“(The writer) also respects all points of view, even the most abhorrent. Writers are representative of all humanity and thus are obligated to treat every person, idea and image fairly and honorably.”

Now although I doubt if that’s his literal intent, I’m here to tell you that there’s no way on earth that I’ll respect outright lies and expressions of hate, bigotry and racism, or the people who spout them. Sorry, but honorably respecting abhorrent points of view is a bridge too far for me and if anyone mouths any of that stuff, my respect for them will evaporate into thin air with virtually no chance of recovery.

He closes with “love”.

“Instead of seeing the world as a competitive playing place, the writer sees the world as a vast collection of people, all of whom share the same sense of wonder, the same fears and dreams and the same grief. The writer understands that everyone she meets is carrying a heavy burden. The writer feels that burden – in Madison, Wisconsin, in Santiago, Chile, in Moscow and in Beijing – and loves all who bear it.”

However, from my perspective that burden must include those living in challenging conditions in Port- au- Prine, Haiti, along the Gaza strip, Jerusalem, Mexico City and the Sudan. That burden must include those attempting to escape violence in their home countries or living in abject terror about the threat of mass deportation. That burden must include women whose lives are at risk because of abortion bans. It must include students and teachers dealing with gun violence in schools. That burden must include the homeless young mother with a year-old son who sat near me in the coffee shop where I wrote the piece you’re now reading.

Add those to your mix Mr. Rosenblatt and I’m all in.

Can writers survive, even thrive, in such an environment?” asks Rosenblatt at the end. His answer: “We’d better.” To that I’d append that with not yielding to threats to our core values as writers, nor refraining from saying what must be said and when and how to say it. Because times that writers must continue to “hold feet to the fire,” speak truth to power and call out hypocrisy, craziness and cowardliness whenever and wherever it surfaces.

If we don’t who will?

Terry Howard is an award-winning trainer, writer, and storyteller. He is a contributing writer with the Chattanooga News Chronicle, The American Diversity Report, The Douglas County Sentinel, Blackmarket.com, co-founder of the “26 Tiny Paint Brushes” writers guild, recipient of the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Award, and third place winner of the 2022 Georgia Press Award.

CAMPER REMAINS DEMOCRATIC LEADER/CLEMMONS REMAINS CAUCUS CHAIR

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CAMPER REMAINS DEMOCRATIC LEADER/CLEMMONS REMAINS CAUCUS CHAIR

NASHVILLE—The Tennessee House Democratic Caucus today elected its leadership positions for the upcoming 114th General Assembly of the Tennessee House of Representatives.  Rep. Karen Camper of Memphis remains House Democratic Leader and Nashville Rep. John Ray Clemmons retains his title as Caucus Chair.  Other positions elected today were as follows:

Assistant Democratic Leader—Rep. Harold Love of Nashville

Democratic Whip—Rep. Sam McKenzie of Knoxville

House Floor Leader—Rep. Torrey Harris of Memphis

Caucus Vice-Chair—Rep. Bob Freeman of Nashville

Caucus Treasurer—Rep. Ronnie Glynn of Clarksville

Caucus Secretary—Rep. Yusuf Hakeem of Chattanooga

Democratic Leader Pro Tempore—Rep. Larry Miller of Memphis

In addition to the above, Rep. Johnny Shaw of Bolivar and Nashville Rep. Vincent Dixie were elected to fill the 2 House Democratic positions on the Joint Fiscal Review Committee.  Freshman lawmakers Shaundelle Brooks of Nashville was elected Assistant House Floor Leader and Gabby Salinas of Memphis was named the new Assistant Democratic Whip.

Brain-training games remain unproven, but research shows what sorts of activities do benefit cognitive functioning

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Brain-training games remain unproven, but research shows what sorts of activities do benefit cognitive functioning

As many as 60 million people – that’s 20 percent of Americans – deal with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

IBS is a chronic condition that affects the lower gastrointestinal tract. It also causes the colon to be irritable and spastic, which causes the abdominal discomfort associated with changes in the consistency and/or frequency of bowel movements.

The causes of IBS are not fully known, but are believed to be a result of a combination of factors, including bacterial imbalance, food allergies and parasites. IBS has three subcategories:

•             pain associated with diarrhea;

•             pain associated with constipation;

•             pain and diarrhea alternating with constipation

How does IBS affect people? People who suffer from IBS are plagued by uncomfortable and disabling symptoms like abdominal pain (the most commonly reported), bloating, and both diarrhea and constipation.

These symptoms cause them to be affected in their daily life and they also miss approximately twice as many work days per year than non-sufferers. They also report more fatigue, lack of energy, and also decreased physical functioning, and overall general health.

Treating IBS

Although there are plenty of treatments for IBS, many do not address the underlying causes of the digestive system.

The lining of the colon, or the gut, is affected in IBS and when it breaks down it can cause “leaky gut” syndrome that eventually exposes the immune system to bacteria. This lining can break down from toxic diets, too much sugar, not enough fiber and also stress.

When this happens, the immune system responds and causes changes in the body such as increased allergies, sensitivities, mood disorders, and even depression.

To balance the gut’s ecosystem, it must be controlled and the overgrowth of bacteria must be in balance. This balance will help to resolve bloating and overall symptoms of IBS by clearing out the overgrowth of bacteria.

The best way to attack these symptoms is to repopulate your digestive tract with good bacteria. Probiotics are a great way to accomplish this, as they help to further normalize gut function.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can be therapeutic for gastrointestinal diseases such as IBS. They help the bowel by suppressing the growth of bad bacteria, improving the leaky gut, and helping alter the immune system. The use of probiotics may also improve bowel motility.

You can also repopulate your digestive tract with good bacteria by increasing fiber and decreasing sugar in your diet. The soluble fiber in vegetables and fruit adds healthy bulk to the diet. Another beneficial option is taking digestive enzymes with meals to help break down food faster as the gut heals.

Other nutrients that can help heal the lining of the gut include fish oil and the fatty acid Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) commonly found in evening primrose oil, zinc, vitamin A, and glutamine.

Make sure to also drink plenty of water, exercise regularly and decrease your alcohol intake to promote regularity and minimize your IBS symptoms.

If you suspect that you may have IBS, consult with your doctor so they can do a careful physical examination with a complete history and an initial evaluation with lab work. For some patients, this may mean a colonoscopy if there is a family history of colon cancer.

Visiting your doctor as well as eliminating certain foods to treat the underlying causes of IBS can dramatically improve your health and help you overcome your digestive problems. (Dr. Jessica Shepherd for BlackDoctor.org)

Bronny James is the Highest Paid Player in the G League But Ranks Almost Last

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Bronny James is the Highest Paid Player in the G League But Ranks Almost Last

Nationwide — When the Los Angeles Lakers selected Bronny James, the 20-year-old son of LeBron James, with the 55th pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, expectations were mixed. While some assumed he would spend most of his rookie season developing in the G League, the Lakers surprised many by signing him to a guaranteed contract and keeping him on the NBA roster to start the season. Notably, Bronny is the highest-paid player in the G League making more than $1 million but currently, he ranks 330th out of 336 players in performance metrics.

According to Bro Bible, after struggling in his initial NBA games, where he appeared out of sync, the Lakers reassigned Bronny to their G League affiliate, the South Bay Lakers. However, the move came with a unique arrangement: Bronny would only play home games for South Bay, rejoining the NBA roster when the G League team traveled.

Bronny has since made two appearances for South Bay, but his performances have been far from promising. In his debut on November 9, he scored just six points on 22% shooting. His second outing didn’t fare much better, as he finished with four points on 2-of-10 shooting, along with two rebounds, two assists, and a block, in a 127-122 loss.

South Bay head coach Zach Guthrie offered a candid assessment of Bronny’s early struggles. “It’s about competing at a high level and playing the right way,” Guthrie explained. “We need to raise our collective intensity on the ball. It’s hard when you haven’t played at a high level your whole life. You have to learn to be physical, dictate the pace, and adapt to modern offenses. In the G League, there are no days off; every possession matters.” Bronny’s difficulties stand in stark contrast to players like Mac McClung, the 2024 G League MVP and two-time NBA Dunk Contest champion. Even McClung, despite his success in the G League, has struggled to secure a permanent spot on an NBA roster, highlighting the uphill battle Bronny faces in his professional development.

Councilwoman Demetrus Coonrod Announces She Will Not Seek Re-Election for Chattanooga City Council District 9

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Councilwoman Demetrus Coonrod Announces She Will Not Seek Re-Election for Chattanooga City Council District 9

Councilwoman Demetrus Coonrod recently announced that she will not seek re-election for Chattanooga City Council District 9. Known as a fierce advocate and a passionate leader, Councilwoman Coonrod has spent her tenure championing issues that impact not just District 9, but the entire City of Chattanooga. Her leadership has been grounded in a commitment to equity, justice, and building stronger communities across all neighborhoods.

“This has been one of the most challenging and rewarding journeys of my life,” said Councilwoman Coonrod. “Serving District 9 has been an honor, but my work was never just about one district–it was about advocating for the entire City of Chattanooga. In this pivotal moment, I believe our city must shift focus toward collaboration and connection. Building and strengthening community is no longer an option; it is a necessity. We can no longer afford to operate in political silos. Chattanooga’s future depends on our ability to bridge divides, align on what truly matters, and ensure that every Chattanoogan has the opportunity to thrive.”

Councilwoman Coonrod has consistently pushed the city to think bigger and act boldly in addressing systemic inequities. From fighting for second chances for justice-involved individuals to advocating for affordable housing, economic opportunity, and youth empowerment, her leadership has been transformational. Her lived experience as a formerly incarcerated individual has given her a unique ability to connect with underserved communities and to craft policies rooted in understanding, compassion, and fairness.

“I’ve worked tirelessly to amplify the voices of those who have been ignored or forgotten. My journey is proof that redemption is possible, and my mission has been to ensure everyone–no matter their background or circumstances–has a chance to succeed. I believe deeply in the potential of Chattanooga, but for us to reach that potential, we must unite and move forward together.”

Councilwoman Coonrod also emphasized the importance of civic engagement at every level of government. “It’s my hope that people will get involved and understand the critical role of government in shaping our communities. Liberty, economic prosperity, and restoring the American dream for every Chattanoogan depend on all of us coming together to make a difference. These values must remain at the heart of our work as a city.”

In a time when polarization often takes precedence, Councilwoman Coonrod calls on Chattanooga’s leaders and residents to prioritize unity and purpose. “Chattanooga cannot afford to stand still. We must be bold in addressing the real challenges our city faces, and that starts with bridging gaps and breaking down silos. Together, we must focus on what’s important: creating a city where every child has a chance, every family has stability, and every neighborhood has opportunity. The time for unity is now.”

As she prepares to leave public office, Councilwoman Coonrod expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the residents of District 9 and the entire City of Chattanooga for their support and trust. “To the people of District 9 and this great city, thank you for believing in me and trusting me to lead. While I may not be seeking re-election, my commitment to advocacy and community building remains steadfast. This is not the end of my work, but the start of a new chapter in continuing to fight for the Chattanooga we all deserve.”

Chattanooga Fire Department’s New Hiring Age is 18

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Chattanooga Fire Department’s New Hiring Age is 18

by Tribune Staff

The Chattanooga Fire Department’s minimum hiring age is now 18, allowing us to recruit a new demographic group. We would like to thank the support of our city leaders after the Chattanooga City Council held a final vote to approve the change today. It will positively

impact our overall potential candidate pool, giving us access to a greater number of individuals seeking rewarding careers in the fire service. 

“This change represents a critical step forward in expanding opportunities for young people in Chattanooga who are eager to serve their community,” said Mayor Tim Kelly. “By lowering the Chattanooga Fire Department’s minimum hiring age to 18, we are helping CFD recruit talented public servants while opening doors for motivated high school graduates to begin meaningful and rewarding careers. I’m grateful to our city leaders for supporting this initiative, which will strengthen our fire department and allow us to keep pace with departments nationwide. Together, we’re investing in the future of our fire service and the safety of our city.”

Previously, our minimum hiring age was 21 and individuals had to wait three years after graduating high school to seek employment with our fire department. They either go to college, find other work, or work toward other vocational careers. Now, our recruiting efforts in area high schools will be more productive and allow us to access potential hires right out of high school. 

This further enhances our recruitment strategies as the CFD seeks to keep the number of applicants high in order to fill vacancies quicker. Other fire departments both regionally and nationally hire at 18, including Cleveland (TN) Fire Department, Bradley County Fire Rescue, Catoosa County Fire Department, Murfreesboro Fire Department, Oak Ridge Fire Department, Knoxville Fire Department, Birmingham Fire Department, Huntsville Fire Department, Mobile Fire Department, Atlanta Fire Department, Cobb County Fire Department, and Gwinnett County Fire Department. Big cities like Chicago, Philadelphia, New York, and Los Angeles also hire at 18. Tennessee state law has always set the age of 18 to be the minimum age for a certified firefighter. Many of our current firefighters obtained experience with other departments prior to being hired by Chattanooga. 

This age change is one of the fire service’s ways to adapt to a different hiring climate and prevent missed opportunities to find quality candidates. It is just one of the initiatives our command staff has pushed for as they continue to look to the future of the department. Efforts are also underway to address our residency requirements and base pay.  “This is a positive, welcome change for the Chattanooga Fire Department and the surrounding community. It will greatly help our recruitment efforts,” said Fire Chief Phil Hyman.

Jack And Jill Of America, Inc. Greater Chattanooga Chapter Legends& Legacies Fundraiser

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Jack And Jill Of America, Inc. Greater Chattanooga Chapter Legends& Legacies Fundraiser
Chapter President Sandra Affare, PhD, Shay McCowan – Pioneering Innovator Honoree, Past President and Associate Member Latrice Currie, Chapter Editor Tenesha Irvin.

On Saturday, November 2, 2024 the Greater Chattanooga Chapter of Jack and Jill of America Incorporated hosted its 10th Anniversary Celebration in the ballroom of the Embassy Suites Hamilton Place Hotel. “Legends and Legacies, Honoring our Past, Celebrating Our Future!” was the theme. Local individuals who epitomize the Jack and Jill of America, Inc. mission of championing the needs of children and youth by creating positive change and opportunities for growth and development were honored with “Community Star” awards. The honorees of the evening were D’Wauna Young – Legendary Community Leader, Shay McCowan – Pioneering Innovator, and Wonjen Bagley – Enduring Advocate.

Mother members and chapter teens wore pink and blue gowns, the signature brand colors of the organization. It was truly a lovely evening of honoring The Greater Chattanooga Chapter’s past and celebrating the future. This year’s event was organized by Foundation Chair , Yolanda Spraggins-Wilson, MD. She and her committee did a fabulous job.

The Greater Chattanooga Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. greatly appreciates the contributions of community sponsors: Silver Sponsor – Galen East Pediatrics Yolanda R. Spraggins-Wilson, M.D.; Blue Sponsors – State Farm, Stephanie Sinkfield Dark, The Links, Incorporated Chattanooga Chapter, The Tenesha Irvin Team, and HOF Properties.

Chapter President Sandra Affare, PhD, D’Wauna Young – Legendary Community Leader Honoree, Past President and Associate Member Latrice Currie.

Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is the premier organization aimed at enriching the lives of young children, bringing cultural awareness, community service and civic responsibility for African American families. The Greater Chattanooga Chapter has been very active in service to the Chattanooga Area community and is committed to improving the lives of ALL children.

Woodmore Elementary Students Remembered 8 Years After Tragic Bus Crash

Camm Ashford
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Woodmore Elementary Students Remembered 8 Years After Tragic Bus Crash
Woodmore Elementary School marks eight years since fatal bus crash.

Eight years ago, on Nov. 21, 2016, a devastating school bus crash claimed the lives of six young students from Woodmore Elementary School.

The victims–Cor’Dayja Jones, D’Myunn Brown, Keonte Wilson, Zyaira Mateen, Zyanna Harris, and Zoie Nash–were on their way home when the bus flipped on Talley Road, striking a tree. The crash also left several other children injured and deeply impacted families, friends and educators across the region.

Chattanooga Mayor Tim Kelly reflected on the heartbreaking event, saying, “Today, we pause to remember the tragedy that struck our community eight years ago–the Woodmore bus crash. We honor the six young lives taken too soon, cherishing the memories of their laughter, dreams, and the joy they brought to those who knew them. Let this solemn anniversary remind us of the importance of community, safety, and unwavering love for our children. Together, we continue to heal and hold one another close.”

The bus driver, Johnthony Walker, was transporting 37 students when the crash occurred. Investigators found that Walker was not on his designated route and was driving well over the 30-mph speed limit when the bus veered off the road. During the trial, prosecutors alleged he was also using his phone at the time. Walker claimed he swerved to avoid another vehicle but denied speeding or phone use.

Walker faced 34 charges, including six counts of vehicular homicide, and was ultimately convicted of six counts of criminally negligent homicide. He was sentenced to four years in prison. Walker later faced unrelated aggravated statutory rape charges, to which he pleaded guilty in 2020. He remains in prison, with his sentence scheduled to end in February 2025. His most recent request for parole was denied in January 2023.

Breaking the Silence: World AIDS Day 2024 Celebrates Progress Through Collective Action

Camm Ashford
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Breaking the Silence: World AIDS Day 2024 Celebrates Progress Through Collective Action

In commemoration of the 36th World AIDS Day on Dec. 1, communities worldwide are uniting under the theme “Collective Action: Sustain and Accelerate HIV Progress.”

As the global health community reflects on decades of progress in HIV treatment and prevention, two remarkable women are sharing their stories to challenge stigma and inspire hope.

Ann, a 74-year-old retired principal from Connecticut, and Robin, a 58-year-old community health educator from Maryland, represent the changing face of HIV in America. Both diagnosed in 1998, their journeys highlight how far HIV treatment and social acceptance have come, while underscoring the work that still remains.

“When I was diagnosed, people living with HIV faced significant stigma among a number of other challenges,” says Ann, who believes she contracted the virus during a hysterectomy procedure.

After keeping her diagnosis private for more than two decades, she now speaks openly about her experience.  “While HIV stigma is still very much around today, times have changed and we have made progress. I now choose to be open about my diagnosis. My hope is that this will help others know they are not alone and will change the way the world views what it means to be living healthy with HIV.”

Robin’s story adds another dimension to the narrative. Diagnosed during prenatal care while expecting her third child, she initially struggled with the devastating news. Today, she works as a community health educator, helping others navigate their diagnoses.

“When the doctor told me I had HIV, I was devastated, and it was compounded by my pregnancy and the fear that my baby could be born with it as well,” Robin shares. “Fortunately, my daughter does not have HIV and I’m now using my experience to help those living in a similar situation come to terms with their diagnosis and live their lives to the fullest.”

Admiral Rachel L. Levine, MD, assistant secretary for Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, emphasizes the importance of this year’s commemoration: “We must all come together to remember the millions of people we have lost to HIV/AIDS. In their memory, we know we must take collective action to continually improve, resource, and further the reach of programs to the communities most and disproportionately impacted by HIV.”

The landscape of HIV treatment has transformed dramatically since the epidemic began over 40 years ago. What was once a deadly diagnosis is now, for many, a manageable chronic condition. Modern treatment options consider various factors, including aging well with HIV, medication interactions, and lifestyle considerations.

As World AIDS Day 2024 approaches, stories like Ann’s and Robin’s serve as powerful reminders of both progress made and challenges ahead. Their willingness to step out of the shadows not only helps reduce stigma but also demonstrates that living with HIV doesn’t define a person’s life or limit their potential to make a difference in their communities.

Through collective action and continued advocacy, the global community moves closer to its goals of preventing new HIV infections and ensuring comprehensive care for all people living with HIV.

The courage of individuals like Ann and Robin, who share their stories to help others, plays a crucial role in this ongoing journey toward a future where HIV stigma no longer casts a shadow over those affected by the virus.

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