Last month, fellow blogger Erin Grohs questioned the historic blood donation ban for gay men that arose from concerns and lack of understanding on HIV in the 1980s. And yet while Erin's post detailed some of the discoveries and greater understanding made since the ban was implemented, we still have a long way to go to bring the truth and face of AIDS and HIV out front.
Former Project Runway contestant Jack Mackenroth brought primetime visibility to the issue a few years ago, as he did nothing to hide his daily medicine regime or HIV status on the show. And while Mackenroth had to step down from the show because of an complication with his condition, his platform had been established.
Since the show Mackenroth has used his notoriety to bring greater awareness to healthy management of HIV and a happy life that is still attainable as a positive individual. My second blog post was on Mackenroth's HIV education campaign, Living Positive by Design. And today I bring you the next installment of Mackenroth's role as positive HIV role model.
In partnership with LOGO-TV and Merck, Mackenroth created the follow public service announcement on the possibility of living a healthy, happy life for more than 20 years with HIV. While I've yet to see the PSA on LOGO or other channels, I hope the ad has a wider distribution than typical LGBT-centered stations or programming. This spot is educational to everyone — helping our allies and straight colleagues see a different side of HIV.
What's your thought on the ad? Better yet, what are your thoughts on HIV? If we're ever going to find a cure, we've got to start talking about the issue often and honestly. Help start the conversation with a comment below.
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