Confessions

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**Tenga en cuenta que este episodio contiene lenguaje explícito relacionado con el abuso sexual y no es apropiado para niños.**

Jacqueline, hoy tiene 32 años. Sufrió la irreparable pérdida de su padre el día que ella cumplió once años; su madre vivía en los Estados Unidos, ya que, como muchas mujeres inmigrantes, tuvo que abandonarla a una muy corta edad en busca de mejores oportunidades.  El padre de Jacqueline fue el pilar y sustento familiar, luego de su fallecimiento tuvo que enfrentar una difícil situación de discriminación y violencia intrafamiliar en una historia que tal pareciera arrancada de las páginas del cuento de “La Cenicienta”. 

Jacqueline emigró sin documentos a los Estados Unidos en 2005 paras sólo continuar con su desventura. Desde que llegó a Estados Unidos, a la edad de 12 años, tuvo que trabajar e ir a la escuela para salir adelante a menudo con violencia y abuso intrafamiliar. 

Como una manera de huir del maltrato de su madre, a los 16 años, huyó de su casa con una maleta llena de sueños para formar la familia ideal que ella siempre había anhelado.   Se mudó a vivir en pareja con su novio; pero la situación, lejos de cambiar se tornó peor y como resultado se infectó de VIH.

Jacqueline recibió el diagnostico de VIH en Julio del 2014, durante una visita médica debido un embarazo de alto riesgo. Su mundo se derrumbó mientras enfrentaba el rechazo de su pareja y la muerte de su primera pequeña hija que tan solo vivió media hora y murió en sus brazos.  Sin embargo, las fuerzas del universo se conjugaron para iluminar su camino y volvió a quedar embarazada cinco meses después.  Jacqueline se llenó de júbilo cuando el doctor le anunció que tendría otra niña: “La melodía de su vida”. 

Para Jacqueline, el VIH fue un parteaguas en su vida que la volvió una mujer fuerte y resiliente. Con la ayuda de médicos, enfermeras, trabajadoras sociales, grupos de apoyo y otras mujeres que comparten su situación pudo salir adelante y enfrentar la adversidad.  Esta estrujante historia nos revela que la fortaleza humana se impone ante la desdicha. 

Si ha sido víctima de violencia sexual, violencia doméstica o trata de personas, comuníquese con el Centro de Mujeres del Este de Los Ángeles.

LÍNEA DIRECTA DE CRISIS 1-800-585-6231

BILINGÜE CONFIDENCIAL| 24 HORAS 7 DÍAS o visita www.elawc.org para la opción de chat 24 horas al día, 7 días a la semana

Línea directa nacional de agresión sexual 1-800-656-4673

https://www.rainn.org/linea-de-ayuda-online-en-espanol

Datos sobre el VIH obtenidos en cdc.gov/hiv   
Para encontrar pruebas, tratamientos y otros recursos del VIH, visite https://locator.hiv.gov/

Línea 988 de Prevención del Suicidio y Crisis
En la línea 988 de prevención del suicidio y crisis, entendemos que los retos de la vida a veces pueden ser difíciles. No está solo.

Este podcast es presentado por  Los Angeles Family AIDS Network y producio por Kavich-Reynolds Productions. 

Producido por: Natalie Sanchez, Elia Silveyra, Francisco Valdes

¿Te gustó este episodio? Cuéntanos lo que piensas en nuestra encuesta de comentarios. Haga clic [AQUI]!

Particionado por la Administración de Recursos y Servicios de Salud (HRSA), Poner Fin a la Epidemia del VIH y el Condado de Los Ángeles, Departamento de Salud Pública, División de Programas Contra el VIH y ETS

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This podcast is brought to you by the Los Angeles Family AIDS Network 

Send us Fan Mail

Bienvenidos a la temporada 3 del podcast de confesiones. Luisa, de Michoacán, México, comparte su historia después de ser diagnosticada con VIH en el 2014. Recuerda que inicialmente sufrió síntomas persistentes, como dolores de cabeza y de estómago, lo que la llevó a sospechar que tenía VIH. Después de su diagnóstico, cayó en una profunda depresión, pero poco a poco encontró apoyo a través de terapia, medicamentos y grupos de apoyo.

Luisa describe su crianza en Michoacán, donde creció con su madre después de que su padre abandonó a la familia. Se casó a los 17 años, tuvo un hijo y vivió una vida feliz con su marido hasta que él se volvió abusivo.

Después de la muerte de su esposo, Luisa se mudó a los EE. UU. donde obtuvo su examen de VIH en 2014. A pesar de su miedo y dudas iniciales sobre tener más hijos, tuvo dos hijos más, y ambos nacieron VIH negativos. Luisa nos recuerda sobre la importancia de tomar medicamentos constantemente, lo que la permite llevar una vida saludable y mantener su carga viral indetectable.

Luisa nos cuenta sobre el estigma que enfrentó, particularmente cuando su pareja la rechazó después de enterarse de su estado de VIH durante el embarazo. A pesar de estos desafíos, ha encontrado fortaleza en sus hijos y continúa viviendo una vida normal, atribuyendo su bienestar al apoyo médico y familiar. Luisa anima a otras personas viviendo con VIH a tomar sus medicamentos, buscar apoyo y vivir sus vidas plenamente, recordándoles que con tratamiento pueden vivir muchos años saludables.

**Tenga en cuenta que este episodio contiene lenguaje explícito relacionado con el abuso sexual y no es apropiado para niños.**

Si ha sido víctima de violencia sexual, violencia doméstica o trata de personas, comuníquese con el Centro de Mujeres del Este de Los Ángeles.

LÍNEA DIRECTA DE CRISIS 1-800-585-6231

BILINGÜE CONFIDENCIAL| 24 HORAS 7 DÍAS o visita www.elawc.org para la opción de chat 24 horas al día, 7 días a la semana

Línea directa nacional de agresión sexual 1-800-656-4673

https://www.rainn.org/linea-de-ayuda-online-en-espanol

Datos sobre el VIH obtenidos en cdc.gov/hiv   
Para encontrar pruebas, tratamientos y otros recursos del VIH, visite https://locator.hiv.gov/

Este podcast es presentado por  Los Angeles Family AIDS Network y producio por Kavich-Reynolds Productions.

Producido por:
Natalie Sanchez
Elia Silveyra
Francisco Valdes

Particionado por la Administración de Recursos y Servicios de Salud (HRSA), Poner Fin a la Epidemia del VIH y el Condado de Los Ángeles, Departamento de Salud Pública, División de Programas Contra el VIH y ETS

¿Te gustó este episodio? Cuéntanos lo que piensas en nuestra encuesta de comentarios. Haga clic [AQUI]!

Para obtener más información sobre Los Angeles Family AIDS Network visite
lafan.org
facebook.com/LAFAN1
Instagram; @lafamilyaidsnetwork

Support the show

This podcast is brought to you by the Los Angeles Family AIDS Network 

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to Episode 6 of the Confessions Podcast, Season Two, where we continue uncovering profound and transformative stories. This episode introduces you to the remarkable Ashley Cobb, a 39-year-old sex educator from Atlanta, Georgia, who has dedicated her life to empowering others through education and advocacy.

Ashley shares her deeply personal and inspiring story, beginning with her upbringing in a conservative Christian household in rural North Carolina, just an hour outside Raleigh. Growing up, sex was a taboo topic, and Ashley received an abstinence-only education, which left her and many others ill-prepared for the realities of adult life. This early experience ignited a passion within her to become a sex educator, realizing that many adults were navigating their sexual lives through trial and error due to a lack of comprehensive sex education.

With nearly a decade of experience since 2016, Ashley has become a powerful voice in the field, especially for Black women. Her professional journey took her from teaching in a classroom to earning a public health degree, driven by a desire to work specifically in HIV prevention. Ashley's work at a nonprofit in Georgia called West Care is focused on HIV prevention and education, where she discovered the importance of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) for women. Her experience with PrEP transformed her advocacy, allowing her to speak from personal experience and encouraging other Black women to explore all available tools for HIV prevention.

Join us for this enlightening episode as Ashley Cobb discusses her journey of self-discovery, the challenges of breaking barriers in sex education, and her ongoing mission to educate and empower. Her story is a testament to the importance of comprehensive sex education and its impact on individuals and communities. Tune in to "Breaking Barriers in Sex Education with Ashley Cobb" for an insightful conversation highlighting the power of knowledge and the courage to challenge societal norms.

Did you like this episode? Tell us what you think on our feedback survey. Click [HERE]!

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This podcast is brought to you by the Los Angeles Family AIDS Network 

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome back to the 'Confessions' podcast, Season Two. This season, we embark on a profoundly important journey, one that brings to light the stories, struggles, and triumphs of black women living with HIV. In a world where the numbers speak volumes – with thousands of new HIV infections among black heterosexual and transgender women – it's crucial we listen, learn, and act. Black women's experiences in the HIV epidemic are not just statistics; they are tales of resilience, strength, and hope. This season is dedicated to uplifting their voices, shedding light on the disparities in healthcare, and exploring the courage it takes to live openly and authentically. Join us as we share the courageous stories of six women whose lives and experiences offer insight, inspiration, and a call to action for all of us. Welcome to 'Confessions', Season Two.

Support the show

This podcast is brought to you by the Los Angeles Family AIDS Network 

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to Episode 5 of the Confessions Podcast, Season Two, where we delve into the heart and soul of resilience and purpose in the face of adversity. This episode introduces you to 28-year-old yoga instructor Gabrielle. Born in Florida and having moved from place to place, Gabrielle eventually found herself in San Diego, facing some of her life's lowest points. One of these pivotal moments was learning she was HIV positive, a diagnosis that could have easily broken her spirit. Instead, Gabrielle chose to transform her life, finding strength and purpose in her journey.

Gabrielle opens up about her battle with alcoholism, a struggle that intensified after college. She candidly shares the challenges she faced and the pivotal moments that led her to seek help. Her story is one of hope and determination as she navigated the difficult road to sobriety and found peace through yoga. Now, living a life of sobriety, Gabrielle has embraced her role as a mother, offering a unique perspective on what it means to breastfeed and care for her baby while living with HIV.

Join us for this inspiring episode as Gabrielle's journey underscores the power of resilience, the importance of seeking help, and the beauty of living authentically. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can find strength, hope, and a renewed sense of purpose. Tune in to "Yoga, Sobriety, and Motherhood with Gabrielle" for an unforgettable conversation that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

Did you like this episode? Tell us what you think on our feedback survey. Click [HERE]!

Support the show

This podcast is brought to you by the Los Angeles Family AIDS Network 

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to Episode 4 of the Confessions Podcast, Season Two, where we delve into the heart and soul of resilience and purpose in the face of adversity. This episode introduces you to Bridgette, a remarkable woman whose life took an unexpected turn at the age of 40. Born and raised in Inglewood, California, Bridgette's story is one of courage, transformation, and the power of finding one's voice amidst life's most challenging moments.

At 51, Bridgette is not only a loving mother but also a dedicated nurse, a profession she embraced later in life, symbolizing her unwavering commitment to caring for others. However, Bridgette's journey took a pivotal turn when she was diagnosed with HIV, a moment that reshaped her existence and set her on a path to advocacy and empowerment. In this unfiltered conversation, Bridgette shares the raw and honest emotions of the day she received her diagnosis, the complex process of disclosing her status to friends and family, and how she navigated the storm of emotions that followed.

But Bridgette's story doesn't end with her diagnosis. Instead, she turned a moment of despair into a mission of hope, using her experience to make a positive impact. Through her column, 'Being Bridgette,' featured in POSITIVELY AWARE, one of the most trusted sources of HIV treatment and advocacy news, Bridgette offers insights, support, and inspiration to others walking a similar path. Her voice is a beacon of strength, encouraging an open dialogue about living with HIV and challenging the stigma and misconceptions that often surround the virus.

Join us in this powerful episode as Bridgette takes us through her journey of self-discovery, the search for purpose, and her unyielding dedication to making a difference. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the profound impact of turning personal trials into a source of empowerment and advocacy. 'Confessions' Season Two is dedicated to amplifying the voices of black women like Bridgette, whose experiences remind us of the importance of compassion, understanding, and collective action in the fight against HIV. Do not miss this inspiring episode of courage, hope, and transformation.

Did you like this episode? Tell us what you think on our feedback survey. Click [HERE]!

Support the show

This podcast is brought to you by the Los Angeles Family AIDS Network 

Send us Fan Mail

In this heartwarming third episode, we dive deep into the inspiring story of a remarkable young black woman who has navigated life's challenges with an extraordinary spirit. Born with HIV and introduced to the foster care system before finding her forever family, she shares the intimate details of growing up in a household where love knew no bounds. Through her unfiltered narrative, we explore the nuances of her family dynamic, the complexities of growing up with HIV, and the profound journey of self-discovery she embarked on from a tender age.

Her story is not just about the challenges of managing HIV or the intricacies of interracial family dynamics; it's a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of dreams. She candidly discusses the early days of learning to live with HIV, from taking medication at a young age, all while being nurtured by parents whose love never wavered. Yet, this episode goes beyond her past; it's a glimpse into her future.

Don't miss this episode of 'Confessions' as we celebrate the strength found in love, the beauty of diversity, and the courage to face the world with hope and determination. This story is more than just a confession; it's a celebration of life, family, and the relentless spirit of a young woman who refuses to be defined by her circumstances. Share this episode with friends and family – let's spread the message of hope, resilience, and the incredible power of love beyond boundaries. Tune in, be inspired, and let's keep the conversation going.

Did you like this episode? Tell us what you think on our feedback survey. Click [HERE]!

Support the show

This podcast is brought to you by the Los Angeles Family AIDS Network 

Send us Fan Mail

In this compelling episode, we welcome Robbin, a remarkable woman whose story of resilience and transformation will leave you inspired. At just 15 years old, Robbin faced an unimaginable challenge: she contracted HIV, an event that would shape the course of her life in profound ways. But Robbin's tale is one of indomitable spirit and incredible strength. She takes us through her harrowing experience of surviving Hurricane Katrina, a catastrophe that tested her in ways she never expected.

Robbin's journey is also one of personal battles, as she opens up about her struggle with addiction and the years she spent entangled in the criminal justice system. Yet, amidst these trials, Robbin's story is not one of despair but of redemption and hope. She shares the pivotal moments that led her to sobriety and how she turned her life around against all odds.

But Robbin didn't stop there. Determined to make a difference, she founded her own nonprofit organization, channeling her experiences into helping others facing similar challenges. Robbin's story is not just a testament to her resilience; it's a powerful reminder of the capacity for change and the importance of giving back. Join us as Robbin shares her incredible journey, offering insights and inspiration to all who listen.

Did you like this episode? Tell us what you think on our feedback survey. Click [HERE]!

Support the show

This podcast is brought to you by the Los Angeles Family AIDS Network 

Send us Fan Mail

In this powerful episode, Jen shares her courageous journey of testing HIV+ after a routine visit to Planned Parenthood. Join us as Jen candidly opens up about the moment she received her positive result, the emotions she experienced, and how she embarked on the challenging path of rebuilding her life. Through her resilience and determination, Jen discovered new opportunities, found a renewed sense of empowerment, and ultimately became a beacon of hope for others by sharing her inspiring story.

As a mother of two, Jen's story illuminates her love for god and the transformative power of community support and solidarity in overcoming adversity. Through her experience, she offers a profound perspective on the importance of resilience, self-love, and the ability to find strength in vulnerability. Tune in as Jen's story exemplifies the courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit that can emerge from the darkest moments, reminding us of the power of human connection and the capacity for hope in the face of challenges.

Did you like this episode? Tell us what you think on our feedback survey. Click [HERE]!

Support the show

This podcast is brought to you by the Los Angeles Family AIDS Network 

Send us Fan Mail

Se estima que hoy en día hay 50,000 Latinas que viven con VIH en los Estados Unidos. En el ano 2020, hubo 5,450 nuevas infecciones de VIH en mujeres. Confesiones es un podcast que sigue la vida de 6 mujeres que comparten sus historias.

**Tenga en cuenta que este episodio contiene lenguaje explícito relacionado con el abuso sexual y no es apropiado para niños.**

Bienvenido al final de temporada del podcast The Confessions, un programa de reunión grabado en vivo. 

En conmemoración del Día Mundial del SIDA el 1 de diciembre de 2023, 5 de las 6 mujeres del podcast Confesiones se reunieron por primera vez para compartir sus experiencias. Descubra qué les ha sucedido a las mujeres desde el lanzamiento de su episodio de podcast. Gracias por sintonizar el podcast Final de la temporada 1 de Confesiones. 

Queremos agradecer y felicitar a las increíbles mujeres que han demostrado fortaleza y coraje al compartir sus historias. 

Esto concluye la primera temporada de Confesiones de mujeres ViH+. Próximamente la temporada 2 en tu plataforma de streaming. Presentado por la Red Familiar contra el SIDA de los Ángeles en colaboración con Women Together.

Si ha sido víctima de violencia sexual, violencia doméstica o trata de personas, comuníquese con el Centro de Mujeres del Este de Los Ángeles.

LÍNEA DIRECTA DE CRISIS 1-800-585-6231

BILINGÜE CONFIDENCIAL| 24 HORAS 7 DÍAS o visita www.elawc.org para la opción de chat 24 horas al día, 7 días a la semana

Línea directa nacional de agresión sexual 1-800-656-4673

https://www.rainn.org/linea-de-ayuda-online-en-espanol

Producido por:
Natalie Sanchez
Jazmin Rojano
Elia Silveyra 

Los Angeles Family AIDS Network
lafan.org
facebook.com/LAFAN1
Instagram; @lafamilyaidsnetwork

Datos sobre el VIH obtenidos en cdc.gov/hiv   
Para encontrar pruebas, tratamientos y otros recursos del VIH, visite https://locator.hiv.gov/

Este podcast es presentado por Los Angeles Family AIDS Network en colaboración con Women Together y producido por mejia.tv

Support the show

This podcast is brought to you by the Los Angeles Family AIDS Network