Juan & Gee recently partnered with Emory University in their StrongerTogether project. #StrongerTogether is
looking for over 1200 male couples to join in the mission to reduce the risk of
HIV transmission within relationships (visit them at strongertogether.us).
#StrongerTogether asks
a very simple question: If we provide information and counseling to the couple
together, do they do better at managing HIV risk than if we treat them as two
individuals? Currently, HIV care is individualized. Men typically go to seek
care or testing alone. But for a couple, doesn’t it make sense to see both men
together and allow the couple to work together?
From Dr. Rob Stephenson, Professor of Health Behavior and
Biological Sciences at the University of Michigan School of Nursing,
Co-Director of the Center for Sexuality and Health Disparities (SEXLAB),
and#StrongerTogether Lead:
“Stronger Together aims to provide couples with
the opportunity to come together and make informed decisions that allow them to
keep their relationship healthy. This puts the couple at the center of managing
their own HIV risk. Guided by a counselor, the couple set prevention goals and
will learn communication skills that allow them to discuss and manage HIV in
their relationship. Receiving counseling and care as a couple may allow couples
to make important decisions
together about PrEPuse or adjusting the conditions of their
agreements around outside sexual partners.
With marriage equality continuing to spread
throughout the U.S. it is imperative that we start to recognize not only the
demand for couples-focused HIV services but the power of couples to work
together to fight HIV. Because when we all come together, especially in the fight
against HIV, we are all stronger together.”
From Juan & Gee:
“We realize that contrary to popular belief, many
men contract HIV while in a Committed Relationship. As a community, we
cannot continue to not talk about these issues, especially within relationships.
The veil of secrecy must be lifted. HIV testing DOES NOT STOP once you
enter into a committed relationship or even once you say “I do”! We must
continue to have these conversations and take responsibility not only for OUR personal
health but our Partners’ health as well! We completely believe in, are
committed to and share in Emory’s vision of a healthier community. How do we
realize that vision? Through regular candid conversations about HIV and our
sexual desires. Engaging in this practice will help reduce the risks of
contracting the virus and allow you to explore a deeper level of connection
with your partner. So, when Emory approached us to partner with them for
this cause, we saw it as an opportunity to #GoDeeper.”
Juan & Gee have already started working with Emory and will
continue to help spread the message through AD campaigns, Video Messaging &
Special Events.
Eligible couples receive $80 for their time!
If you are a male-male couple and are interested
in screening for sexual health together or separately, visit http://strongertogether.us to see
if you’re eligible. Be sure to tell them Juan & Gee Sent you!
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