You can live a long and productive life as long as you take care of yourself and are actively involved in your medical, physical and mental care. Remember to:

I. Be good to yourself.

• Acknowledge and share your feelings of anger, fear, shame, hopes and dreams with someone you trust.

II. Get educated.

• Educate yourself about HIV/AIDS, your medications and what's available.
• Educate providers and your support system about your care needs.
• Prepare for appointments and write things down that you want to talk about.
• Search the Internet. Please note: All Internet resources may not be reliable or current. Your case manager can provide you with a list of reliable Internet resources or see our suggested links.

III. Be an active member of your "care team."

• Ask questions.
• Be honest and open.
• Develop a "care" plan with your case manager and write it down.
• Develop goals that will enhance your health and well-being.
• Develop a support network with others.
• Keep appointments.
• Take medicines regularly and as scheduled.

IV. Communicate!

• With your health team.
• With your guide/mentor/counselor.
• With anyone you feel safe with.
• Write a journal.
• Write poems or stories AND share them with us.
• Participate in discussion groups.
• Artwork (beading, drawing, sculpting, etc.).