A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 0 7 - Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS

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pannualreport050208.qxp:Layout 1 5/5/08 11:23 AM Page 10 Agnes Fund Research has documented that pets increase one’s quality of life and the Agnes Fund is dedicated to maintaining the health of clients’ pets. With very limited funding and the generosity of the Arizona Humane Society, more than 50 clients’ pets were seen by supporting veterinarians. Positive Peer Prevention Body Positive provided a youth outreach specialist on a weekly basis at the Caesar Chavez School – a testament to the increasing acceptance and recognition of sexual health awareness for youth in the Valley. At the Juvenile Detention Center, 70 individuals participated in the Positive Peer program as well as more than 70 youth in two Scottsdale high schools. Additionally, programs were presented at schools in the cities of Glendale and Chandler. Education In 2007, Body Positive conducted nearly 70 educational seminars in which more than 2,500 individuals participated. The program educated clients and professionals alike. Nationally known physicians, prevention educators and clients spoke about diverse topics that empowered clients to direct their treatment and that educate caregivers about the most recent advances in treatment. Additionally, the Southwest Conference was held in late October 2007, reaching national and international HIV/AIDS service providers. In 2008, Body Positive will further expand its prevention, education and outreach impact through strategic alliances that reach underserved populations. Body Positive’s existing community partnerships are impressive, and the agency will continue to explore how to work through community partners to provide HIV testing, programs and outreach.
pannualreport050208.qxp:Layout 1 5/5/08 11:23 AM Page 11 W E L L N E S S & L I F E M A N A G E M E N T The Kirk D. Baxter Wellness Center at Body Positive enhances the quality of life for nearly 2,000 men and women in Arizona who are impacted by HIV/AIDS. The Wellness Center provides complementary alternative medicine (CAM), behavioral health, nutritional counseling and the vitamin and herb shop. Individuals who utilize these services tell of profound, positive changes in their lives. Body Positive does not offer primary care services, but rather, the agency’s services complement primary care. For example, our registered dieticians provide nutrition and dietary advice. Our naturopathic physicians provide acupuncture, vitamin and nutrient therapy. Our licensed behavioral health counselors provide emotional support through a variety of programs, including individual sessions and support groups, and “Positive Pals” – a program that decreases isolation and increases quality of mental health. CAM treatments – such as acupuncture, hydrotherapy, botanical medicine, intravenous nutrient therapy and manipulations – minimize side effects of the virus and toxicity from HIV medications. Vitamins and herbs prescribed by the naturopathic physicians boost individuals’ immune systems and assist in absorption of nutrients. Therapists at the agency assist clients in managing the myriad of emotions and challenges they may encounter when diagnosed as HIV positive. Families, partners and caregivers sometimes participate in an infected person’s sessions. In 2007, our registered dieticians play an integral role in the lives of those infected with HIV/AIDS. Weight maintenance is often a challenge, yet vital to one’s well being. They worked closely with clients to devise a customized nutritional plan that minimizes gastrointestinal side effects of HIV/AIDS medications, yet allows for weight gain and maintenance – all with enjoyable foods. Looking ahead, the agency intends to expand such initiatives as our pilot mobile nutrition program. With this program, registered dieticians visit locations that distribute food boxes and consult with HIV-positive individuals and discuss ways to maintain body weight and muscle mass. Individuals then are referred to Body Positive and are linked to wellness programs. In 2008, the Wellness Center will reach out to existing and new clients to offer informative wellness workshops and a new array of products and services that enhance quality of life for those impacted by HIV/AIDS.
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A N N U A L R E P O R T 2 0 0 7 - Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS

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