Justin's HIV Journal: Justin talks about Raw Sex, Roulette Parties, HIV/AIDS & BDSM

Justin's HIV Journal: Justin talks about Raw Sex, Roulette Parties, HIV/AIDS & BDSM

Justin's HIV Journal: Justin on The Guys At Brunch Show talking about L...

This is the show Guys At Brunch I was on the show back in 2011. It was amazing but I love these guys so I had to post it here

The Guys at Brunch was formed to bring engaging intellectual conversation to family and friends everywhere around the brunch table. We tackle issues dealing with the gay community, in hopes to stimulate converstation and promote a better understanding of our LIFESTYLE. Please be sure to leave a comment, whether the comments are positive or negative we're just glad that you took the time to check us out. Be sure to follow us on Facebook (Guys at Brunch) and Twitter (@guysatbrunch).

HOSTS WITH THE MOST

SHAWN BRADLEY
Born and raised in Louisiana, his no nonsense attitude coupled with his southern charm makes for one compelling individual. He served five years in United States ARMY as a Morse Code Operator. He is a budding comedian. Download his debut comedy album titled "A Bottom Like Me" on iTunes. Second album coming soon. Shawn Bradley believes that if we can't agree to disagree then there's nothing to discuss.

NICHOLAS G
A lifelong native of Baltimore Maryland, Nicholas is an idealistic activist when it comes to issues dealing with equality and he prides himself on being an outspoken advocate for Gay Rights. When not spending 36 hours a week working on G@B, Nicholas is also a student whose focus of study is towards Psychology and Sociology. While Nicholas may hotly debate Shawn on points and issues, its all part of Nicholas, subversive mission to re-educate society about how to argue in a civilized manner. Follow Nicholas on facebook Guysatbrunch

Justin's HIV Journal: Antoine Dodson Renounces Homsexuality

YouTube pseudo celebrity Antoine Dodson has publicly renounced homosexuality, announcing on Facebook and TMZ that he has become a "True Chosen Hebrew Israelite descendant of Judah," is "no longer into homosexuality" and now wants a wife.....GURL PLEASE!!!



Dodson who now reads the Bible faithfully said to Huffington Post
"It's not praying the gay away because it can be lifted,"...... "If you really want to change your life, and just get rid of it, then you can. And that's what I'm doing. I'm not saying I don't have the memories of my past, because I do, and I see it everyday in my mind. But I'm trying to move away from that and become a better person. That's all."

Dodson added that he has always been attracted to the "art of a woman" but that he mistakenly "tried to actually be that instead of being with that," describing his gay days as "dumb."

Antoine every gay man can appreciate the "art of a woman" doesn't mean you are attracted to that art sexually, mentally, or physically enough to be with a woman or that you should be.

"When you get older and you get mature, things in your life change," he said, adding that he would like a wife and children in the future.

LMAO

Still, Dodson says he is "unashamed of his homosexual past".

"I want people to see my past," he said to the Post. "I want them to see me and see what I was delivered from."


He explains to TMZ reporters, "I could care less about the fame and fortune, I've giving all that up to know the true history of the bible. For I am the True Chosen Hebrew Israelite descendant of Judah."

FYI -- the Hebrew Israelites (also known as the Black Israelites) believe they are the descendants of the ancient Israelites ... but they don't consider themselves as "Jewish." They also believe that Satan exists.

As for Dodson, he explains, "As True Israel I know that there are certain things we just can't do. And I totally understand that now. I don't need a Mercedes Benz, I don't need a big house in Beverly Hills all I need is the Most High and my family (Israel). I have been awaken by the great and so should you."

He concludes, "Hate me if you must, bash me if you must, I won't break, do what you will, for this is my calling."

This is the video that made Antoine Dodson Famous



Man this media who__ this unbelievable he is honestly in my opinion wanting attention and this is only because Jason Collins come out and since his star is fading he is trying to piggyback on that. For him to use the bible as justifying why he turning "Straight" is appalling. You are who you are Antione sorry gurl. Of course some in the gay community want him to be straight so he isn't apart of our community at all. Let me for one say that he is not a good representation of a gay black man.

Quote from a LGBT Minister Dr. Raymont Anderson
" As a minister, I renounce the ideas that people like Antoine promote as they misrepresent the bible, Christianity, etc. Where to begin... being a member of the LGBT community is something you are born into not something you choose to be. And yes there are people who do choose to pretend or experiment with being gay just like I know people who claim to be Hispanic when in fact they are not, they think it's cool to claim the heritage though... Also this idea that the bible is against homosexuality is also erroneous as well as misrepresented. If you are going to condemn homosexuals based upon the bible then you should just as ardently condemn those who eat pork, shrimp, have tattoos, and piercings among others! So much I could say about this.. however I will simply say that it seems to me that this young man is confused, misinformed, and possibly seeking media attention to fan the flames of 'stardom' ..."

Read more: http://www.tmz.com/2013/05/03/antoine-dodson-renounces-gay/#ixzz2TIucIPNO

Visit the TMZ Store: http://tmzstore.com

News from news sources TMZ and Huffington Post

Justin's HIV Journal: "Little Feet, Big Steps" A children's AIDS Walk book

"Little Feet, Big Steps" follows a young girl named Gabby through her discovery of what it means to bring communities together and be apart of something big. Gabby turns to family, friends and neighbors to raise money for her local AIDS WALK. Through this experience Gabby realizes she can help make a difference in a big way for people who are living with AIDS, just by walking and raising money. "Little Feet, Big Steps" is meant to encourage, motivate and inspire children, their age does not have to impact their dreams and wishes of making a difference. 

"I brought this book for my daughter after a colleague recommended it to me. The author has a very appealing approach demonstrating to children what it means to take a stand for a belief. My daughter thoroughly enjoyed the book and have seen her read through it a few times by herself. I would pass it along to a friend"
Lucia Strojnik

"What an adorable story and great pictures... this is a great way to teach kids how to give back... I can't wait to see what other adventures Gabby will have."
A sad kindle owner

"This is a great book for preschool and early elementary school kids. Wonderful story about a little girl and the Aids Walk."
Barry S Cohn

"Brit Sharon is a power house for inspiration, creativity and leadership. Only in her early 20's, Brit has accomplished more than many of my closest friends. Little Feet, Big Steps is the perfect example of where children's books are and should be headed. It is a story filled with fictional fun and the harsh realities of life. Brit is a leader and we need more leaders like her. Please read, share and talk about this book. Give your child and community the opportunity to find their greatness just as Brit Sharon has found hers."
Gamal Palmer

"Although considered a children's book, the story line is inspiring for any age group. Brit Sharon beautiful unfolded this story through wonderment and determination. This book is the catalyst for children and people everywhere to make a difference. I am looking forward to other adventures that Brit will take Gaby on..."
Sydney Grossman, CEO of A Slice of PR

"I'm so glad I found this book for my daughter. its so inspiring and had her want to sign up for a walk. She's now going to do relay for life at her school! LOVE THIS!"
Charlene Wee

"Little Feet, Big Steps is a cute book with a powerful meaning behind it. It is a great childrens' story, and may even motivate them to get up and be a part of a charitable event themselves. It's all about taking action in your local communities and making a difference."
Kevin

"This book is truly amazing.  I loved the storyline.  It really give children pride to be able to do something for people in their own community.  I hat is off to the author and illustrator.  The book was great to read and my 16 year old even loves.  Thank you so much for paving the way for future activist and world leaders"
Justin B Terry-Smith

Justin's HIV Journal: First Lady Michelle Obama Speaks to the USDA

I haven't told anyone but I had to take a break from school.  So I'll be going back in June hopefully.  I injured my foot so I couldn't play kickball anymore, and I just had to take a break from a lot of things.  I even took a leave of absence from my motorcycle Club, The Centaurs.  A Master in Public Health takes a lot of time and work. 

Watching and listening to Michelle Obama gave me a since of proud and appreciation for the hard work she puts in everyday.  She truly inspired me to keep going.  One of her many goals are more nutritional food of school lunches and children in general.  I find that goal admirable I think she is amazing. 

Public Health is very important to me.  Food has a lot to do with Public Health.  One of the courses I took was Environmental Health it truly goes with what I do now.  I needed to see her speak to realize that what I do matters and it helps motivate me to be the best I can be in Public Health.

Justins HIV Journal: How To Put On A Condom

1. CHECK THE EXPIRATION DATE!!

2. Make sure the condom is pushed to the opposite you are opening it

3. Open condom wrapper but remember the condom can be torn by sharp objects. Only put on condom after there is a partial or full erection.

4.  Make sure there is no air trapped inside a condom because that may cause it to break. Squeeze the tip of the condom with your fingertips to leave some extra space in the tip, and put on condom, rolling the entire condom down to the base of the penis, still pinching the top. Be sure that the roll is on the outside.

5. Make sure the condom stays in place during sex; if it rolls up, roll it back into place immediately. If the condom comes off, withdraw the penis and put on a new condom.

6. After ejaculation has occurred, while fully erect pull out while holding the condom.  Put the condom in a tissue and place it in the trash.

7. DO NOT FLUSH CONDOM, UNLESS YOU WANT TO CALL A PLUMBER ;-)

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO BRYAN COLLINS 
& PATRICK from POZITIVE LIFE OF PATRICK

http://pozlifeofpatrick.wordpress.com/
http://www.youtube.com/pozlifeofpatrick

HIV Advice Column Just*in Time: April 2013 from A&U Magazine: America's AIDS Magazine

  HIV Advice Column 

JUST*IN TIME

April 2013 from 

A&U Magazine: 

America's AIDS Magazine

 
Justin
I am struggling because I recently found out that my boyfriend tested positive for HIV during our relationship. It has been six months to date since this happened & I am still dealing with the situation mentally. When I first got the news I was getting tested every two weeks and about two months ago I have limited it to once a month. All of my tests have been negative, but, for some reason, I am dealing with anxiety issues to the max. I feel like every symptom is there and I’m having it. I don’t understand why I can’t move on from this. Getting tested should be helping me but it just takes me back to the same place I was when I first got the news. Maybe you can give me some words of wisdom and encouragement that will help me to move past this & move on. Oh, and now I’m terrified to have sex. I don’t sleep around I was always in a relationship so I don’t understand why me…so maybe you can help.
—Monique

Let me start out by saying that you have to stay strong. It is very hard getting out of this stage. The not knowing can be very tough to get through, but you can get through this and you will get through this.

Whether or not the test ever comes back positive or remains negative, you will be okay. HIV most of the time will take longer than two months to show up in any blood test. I don’t know what symptoms you might have but I’m going to guess that you are questioning just about everything that might be happening to your body right now. The key is to stay calm, and don’t worry until there is something to worry about.

Also, you must feel very betrayed right now—that I understand—but we must put attention where it would benefit everyone and that is on the virus. We need to blame the virus and not others. I suggest therapy as well, because it does truly help you move forward. Yes, there might be a time period where you are afraid to have sex with anyone, but in time that might pass. A lot of people have the misconception that HIV only infects people who are promiscuous which is NOT the case. People in “monogamous” relationships can be infected with HIV as well. Stay strong, Monique, be calm and keep in mind this motto that has always helped me get through life: Worry about the things you have control over and do not worry about the things you do not. Be brave, baby. Hugs and kisses!

Justin—
Justin, I think I could learn a lot from you. I seldom disclose my status to anyone, including a few that I’ve had “close encounters” with. I’m in fear of doing so. Although, the few times that I have told my partners about it, they replied, “Don’t worry, I have it to.” Unfortunately, the disease affects more than we give it credit for….
Back to me—I’m afraid of being alienated by my family and friends. I’ve lived with this for twelve years now, so you think I would be comfortable with it. Anything that you have to share with me would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Justin.
—Chad

I understand about only disclosing to those who you are intimate with. Fear is the ultimate enemy. In the 1980s–90s and even now people are afraid of losing their jobs, friends, family, and their very lives if they disclose their status. I’ve always been the kind of guy to stand up for what I believe in even if that means losing people I love. I would start small by telling someone who you know. The more you tell people the easier it gets. I’m not saying, shout it from the rooftops, but maybe we should start with a whisper. When you throw the tiniest pebble in a pond, it makes ripples. But those ripples expand throughout the pond. If they have a problem with it remember it is those people who have the problem and not you. SMOOTCHIES


Justin B. Terry-Smith has been fighting the good fight since 1999. He’s garnered recognition and awards for his work, but he’s more concerned about looking for new ways to transform society for the better than resting on his laurels. He started up in gay rights and HIV activism in 2005, published an HIV-themed children’s book, I Have A Secret (Creative House Press) in 2011, and created his own award-winning video blog called, “Justin’s HIV Journal”: justinshivjournal.blogspot.com. Now, with this column, Justin has found a way to give voice to the issues that people write to him about. Visit his main Web site at www.justinbsmith.com. He welcomes your questions at jsmithco98@hotmail.com.

COLUMN CAN BE FOUND AT
 http://aumag.org/wordpress/?p=6551

Justin's HIV Journal: The Biohazard Tattoo & HIV Stigma

Last week I thought long and hard about the reason why someone would get a bio-hazard tattoo on their body, and then I asked myself why I would get one.   I decided I would get a Biohazard tattoo not because I wanted to feel better about myself being HIV positive, but it was because I felt for the people that couldn't be open about their status.  There are many reasons why a person cannot be open about their status; it could be because of their family, friends, partner/s, fear of persecution, death etc.  But a lot of these reasons come from Stigma.  Stigma of how one is treated when being open about their HIV status is very much alive and well.  I got this tattoo for those mentioned above to help fight against HIV stigma.

I'm not proud to be HIV positive but I'm proud that I can be open about my status and stand up to the faces of adversity.  This is my part that I can do and I'm not ashamed that I did it.  There are many activists that do not like the idea of this tattoo and that is okay but know that I did this not for myself but for others who cannot be open about their HIV status. Also I feel that doing this does open up the room for discussion.  From what I hear from others that have this very tattoo representing their HIV positive status, it actually opens up people to dialog about HIV and about their own status.  I also feel that people asking questions about HIV will better help with education.  I wear the tattoo but the tattoo does not wear me.

Supreme Court Prop 8 and DOMA Rally

I work in downtown Washington DC and I love it.  But recently did you know that DOMA (Defense of Marriage Act) and Prop 8 is having a hearing at the Supreme Court to determine whether or not they are constitutional.  Lets first start with the facts shall we?

PROP 8: is a California state constitution amendment which passed in late 2008 in there state elections. 

Proposition 8 came directly from Proposition 22, which states that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in the state of California.  BUT the Supreme Court of California decided in 2008 that Proposition 22 was unconstitutional which would leave up to the voters in late 2008 when they had their state elections.  Since California has a huge gay population with liberal alike people thought it would definitely turn in the liberals favor.  But alas it did not.  MORMONS, MORMONS MORMONS!!!!. (Not saying ALL Mormons are bad) Well hearing all this money was being secretly raised by those in the Mormon faith to ban same sex marriage in California once and for all.  Also the advocates for same sex marriage made one mistake as well.  People needed to take the message of same sex marriage outside the borders of cities that were already known to be liberal and start hitting more conservative parts of the state which did not happen. 

(PSSSTTT I was a canvasser for same-sex marriage in Maryland.  You know, going door to door advocating for it.  Well that's what we did hear in Maryland AND IT SEEMED TO WORK, point of reflection).

After the voted were counted in late November 2008 all in all the Proposition would add the amendment to California's constitution that only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California. BUT the U.S. District Court Judge Vaughn Walker overturned Proposition 8 on August 4, 2010 because of Perry vs. Schwarzenegger. The Honorable Judge Vaughn Walker decided that  Proposition 8 violated the Due Process and Equal Protection Clauses of the Fourteenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.  Walker then filed that Proposition was not to be enforced until the appeal which would not be held until February 7th, 2012, when the circuit court ultimately agreed with Walker's ruling. Walker was also under scrutiny because he himself was gay, but was later to be excused because the law was unconstitutional which had nothing to do with Walker's sexuality.  But the court still said that no more marriages can take place until further appeals take place.  On June 5th 2012 was court denied hearing anymore cases on Proposition 8, so opponents of Prop 8 filed to request that the Supreme Court review the case, on July 30, 2012. On December 7, 2012, the Supreme Court granted the proponents' petition.  The Supreme Court is looking into if this is constitutional and heard arguments on March 26th, 2013.



DOMA: is a Federal law that restricts benefits and marriage recognition to ONLY opposite sex marriages in the United States.  Unfortunately, in 1996 the after passing both the houses in the U.S Congress the bill it was signed into law by one of my favorite President Bill Clinton.  The former President now regrets having signed DOMA into law and wishes he could take it back.  Both Bill and Hillary Clinton have gone on record in support of same-sex marriage.  One of the main problems with DOMA was Section 3.  Section 3 states that when it came to same-sex marriage federal benefits like insurance benefits for government employees, Social Security survivors' benefits, immigration, and the filing of joint tax returns are NOT recognized. 

After 8 years of a lack in leadership from Former President Bush, President Barack Obama was voted into office.  The Obama administration determined that Section 3 of DOMA was unconstitutional and said that it would not defend it in court.  Republican leaders decided to use the Dept of Justice to try to defend it in court, but Section 3 would be later found unconstitutional by 8 federal courts.  The main issues that people spoke on were issues including bankruptcy, public employee benefits, estate taxes, and immigration.  The Supreme Court on March 27th, 2013 heard arguments on both sides. 

WE WILL SEE IN LATE JUNE WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS WHEN THE SUPREME COURT MAKE THEIR DECISION ON DOMA AND PROP 8

Majority of Newly diagnosed HIV cases in Philadelphia already have AIDS

Every three years the CDC puts out its HIV Surveillance Report which gives a status on infection rates by city, state, region etc.  After the results of he report came out it was found that Philadelphia was ranked 24th among metropolitan area for new AIDS diagnosis.  Over 75% of new HIV cases found were actually stage 3 AIDS.  Currently there are about 12,000 people in Philadelphia living with HIV/AIDS. 

What do you think the problem is?  Are people not getting tested early enough?  Are people becoming complacent with HIV in general?

People are now living longer and longer with the HIV virus.  Some are still in the mindset that if they get HIV or put their selves at risk they can just take care of it later.  Well that is not the case.  Once you are infected with the HIV virus the best thing to do is to seek help/treatment.  The earlier you are able to get to a doctor the better.  Some people are afraid to get test because they are fearful of the results and HIV stigma.

Justin's HIV Journal: 28% of South African School Girls are HIV positive

According to the BBC 28% of South African school girls are HIV positive.  This is such a travesty.  The South African Health Minister Aaron Motsoaledi is stating that young men are not infecting them but older men are.  The South African Health Department put out this ad to engage the HIV/AIDS epidemic. 

What do you think?  Helpful or Stigmatizing?

Motsoaledi was put into off in 2009 by Former South African President Thabo Mbeki.  Mbeki was instrumental in brainwashing a lot of citizens to believe that HIV does not cause AIDS, because he himself was brainwashed by HIV Denialist and/or Dissidents.  Mbeki also claimed that his administration did not have the resources to send aide to all South Africans that were HIV positive. 

Motsoaledi stated that he has treated pregnant girls that range from ages 10 to 14 who were also HIV positive.  After he took office there were rates of infection that were first greater than 678,000 but climbed to 1.5 million.  In 2012 alone 260,000 perished from AIDS, about half of which were from South Africa.   

Justin's HIV Journal: Lifting Ban on HIV Organ Donating

Bans Bans Bans!!!  We have bans for a lot of things in this country, but one is about to be lifted.  The Senate Heath Education and Pensions Committee have approved the HOPE Act, also known as the HIV Organ Policy Equity Act.  The act would lift the federal ban on transplanting HIV positive organs to HIV positive recipients.

The HOPE Act would instruct the Department of Health and Human Service to make up a strategy to be about to transplant the HIV positive organs into HIV positive recipients.  This plan would decrease the wait time on people that were listed as HIV positive and negative.  Over 40 advocacy groups have endorsed this bill including the United Network for Organ Sharing. 

This could save over 1000 lives.  We lifted the ban of Don't Ask Don't Tell, HIV Organ Donating, etc.  Now we need to act on DOMA and the blood ban.  Which do you think will come first? And why?

Justin's HIV Journal: HIV Blogger Only 1 Year Older Than AIDS Discovery

I was able to dig up this clip from News Channel 9 on the anniversary of HIV a couple of years ago here is the story written in its entirety.  Thank you to Brittany Morehouse

WASHINGTON (WUSA) --  When Justin B. Smith was born, AIDS didn't even exist; now the video blogger is inspiring others with being an openly gay male who is HIV positive.

"It had not dawned on me it was the anniversary," said Smith.  "When I first heard that, I was like: 'Oh, 30 years... Oh my gosh...I'm 31; it's been as long as I've been alive.'"

While Smith contracted the virus in 2005, he remembers reading about Ryan White, the famous child with AIDS who wrote about about being publicly shamed because of the disease.  At the time he was 14, Smith said his mother told him his blood work was off and he immediately thought 'HIV.'

"My mother was like: 'No, you have high blood pressure.'" he said.  "I remember reading about Ryan White and thinking about how sad  it was he couldn't go to school and all the kids made fun of him.  Today, even though we have a lot of work still left to be done, we've come very far in education. We know that me touching someone is not going to give that person HIV."

Smith documents every major and minor detail of having HIV in a video journal.  It began as a blog.

"There are people out there living with HIV and everybody has their own journey," he said.  "My journey is different but I decided to put it in front of the camera because I have yet to see an African American gay male or anybody actually going to a doctor's visit, putting it on YouTube and letting thousands of people or even millions of people see firsthand what an HIV positive person goes through."

Now, he's published a children's book called "I have a secret."  It's about a young child like Ryan White who has HIV.

Now, some of the greatest responses he gets from his public profile come from people a couple decades older.  Many of them have lost half of their friends who died after contracting AIDS.

"I get a lot of attention from that generation saying thank you," he said.  "Thank you for doing this."

Justin's HIV Journal: Justin Goes Back to Basic Training

I was going through some old military things and came across a video of me in Basic Training of that was back in 1999 when I was just 19 years old. This was during the era of the policy of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell”. Also since it is dated it was on a VHS tape. I thought to myself, “Wow I’ve grown a lot since then.” My foster used to express interest in the military. He said, “Dad I want to be a Marine”. Of course his father and I tried to persuade him to join the Air Force or the Army, since I’m prior Air Force and my husband is prior Army. After that discussion I think my foster son decided to change his mind about even going into the service, but who knows, he is a teenager and may change his mind later.

Looking at the tape I see myself as I was egotistical, stubborn, and so unfit for the military. I did so many things in the military that I got into trouble for. For example I got speeding on base and my driving privileges were revoked for about 60 days on base. I constantly woke up late for work because I was taking my medication for my thyroid disease. I had a mean supervisor at one point and she hounded me every chance she got until one day when I had cursed her out and got an Article 15 for it. I was raped while in the military and because of DADT I couldn’t tell anyone, because I feared of being kicked out dishonorably. I was a bad person I just wasn’t mature and even though basically my whole family is military I still didn’t have the discipline. But with the help of friends and those who I still call family I made it through. I was able to be discharged honorable with decorations and awards. I made three really good friends who I call my military brothers and we were all gay and I loved them and still talk to them to this day. My joining the military I was able to take advantage of the Montgomery GI Bill (MGIBILL) and since I was active duty during 9/11 I am about to us the 9/11 MGIBILL. I earned my Associate’s in Communications & my Bachelor’s in Political Science with the MGBILL, now I’m going to earn my Master’s Degree in Public Health with it as well; I only have 7 more classes to go. Also I filed for disability because of my thyroid condition and I’m considered a 10% disabled 9/11 Veteran.

The Air Force taught me a lot and helped me a lot even through the rain, the dark and troubling I stuck in there. The military changed my life for the better; I had more resources than ever when I left the military. Now I’m thinking about going into the National Guard, my husband and I need to have that discussion later. I’m a 1st Lieutenant in the Maryland Defense Force right now and I love it. But we will see how this will pan out as far as me going into the National Guard.

 The military isn’t for everyone, but for me personally I wanted to serve my country and also follow the footsteps of generations before me. My family history is that every War this country has been in my family was there to fight, yes I said every War and I wanted that tradition to live on in me and maybe in the generation after me. I just know that I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for the military. On a personal note I wanted to say Thank you and RIP to my friend Derrick Grigg for making the ultimate sacrifice while overseas, you will and always will be missed. This log is dedicated to you, brother.

Justin's HIV Journal: Justin Learns To Relax

 So I’ve decided to take my doctor’s orders seriously. When it comes to HIV it is really important that one keeps their stress levels down and unfortunately it has been harder for me than not. I’ve decided to not let anything or anyone stress me out and if that mean cutting people out of my life completely or putting them in another category so be it. I also emphasize to always look after your own health. I’ve decided to go to bed earlier, drink less, and really try to quit smoking.

 I had a situation where I accidentally made a mistake and was persecuted for it. The one person that I thought would believe me didn’t and I got upset but this time it wasn’t a normal upset. Some of the things that he said to me started making me have physical reactions. First I started to breathe irregularly, sweat and my chest started to hurt; I didn’t know it at the time but I was having an anxiety attack. I was with friend’s when this happened but I was clever enough to sequester myself in a room in the house because I didn’t want anyone to see me at this time. After that moment I decided NO MORE STRESS.

So my son and I had a SPA/SHOPPING DAY and that was a great way to distress.

Even more recently there was a situation that happened at home with our son and I stayed calm and didn’t fly off the handle:

My husband and I have a rule for the house that NOBODY is allowed to be in the house without permission or us being present. We both had Maryland Defense Force Drill last night when I get a phone call. It was another Foster Parent named Paula. Paula asked me if had seen her foster daughter Jade. (We noticed that whenever Jade and Londyn hang out together she badly influences him to stay out late when he is suppose to be home, hangs out at our house without her parents’ permission etc.) I said to Paula, "No why?" "Jade said she was going over your house after school and I haven't seen her my husband even went to your house and knocked on the door and nobody answered" Keep in mind school is out at 2pm and it was about 7pm when I got the call. I immediately called my foster son Londyn. Londyn didn't pick up after me calling twice so I tried one more time. His butt picked up the phone before he did. His phone was in his back pocket and he didn't know it had picked up the call. I could hear Jade and Londyn in the background talking. I put it on speaker and l my husband listen to make I was not going paranoid. I then called back a 4th time and Londyn finally picked up the phone. "Hi Dad, how are you?" He sounded out of breathe I asked, "You sound like your outside what going on?" He said, "I was just walking Jade home" I said, “From where?" "The house" He replied. I said, “Okay You know you're not supposed to have anybody over when we are not there and without permission, you could've either called us or texted us to ask if Jade could come over, right?" He said, "Well yeah" "Okay I'm happy that you are ok and that you didn't lie about her being there, BUT you will be disciplined. When we got home the house was a mess. He is home today from school GUESS WHAT TIME TO CLEAN HOUSE, ROOM AND BATHROOM ESPECIALLY. Also the broken light will be coming out of his allowance AND NO X-BOX for a week. He is not allowed to hang out with Jade. So I’ve decided to make a little list. It’s like a Bucket List if you will

1) Skydiving
2) Bungee Jump
3) Become more active in HOPE DC
4) Climb a Mountain
5) Take more trips out of state alone
6) Horseback Riding alone
7) Indoor Wall Climbing
8) Act in an indie film/series or move short.
9) Camping for a weekend alone
10) Go on more spiritual retreats (Non-Christian Based)
11) Monthly SPA treatment
12) Be more serious about Yoga

This is short list and I will add to this after scratching some of them off as I go. I have to learn new ways and tools to calm myself down. I am a bit of a thrill seeker an adrenaline junkie and I now have to exercise that more than ever. It tends to relax me more often than not. It’s what I call a good type of stress.

Justin's Doctor's Appt Hypertension, Cholesterol, Diet and New Book

Recently I went to my doctor’s appointment and saw that I was borderline Hypertension.   He also said that my T-Cells dropped as well.  This is NOT good.  But I’m still undetectable which is good.  All my vitals were goo except of course because of hypertension.  I’m only 33 and someone has told me I’m much too young to have this diagnosis.  Since I’m in school for my Master’s Degree, Activism, Writings, and having a kid on top of that stress has been at its highest I’ve ever had in my life.  After my appointment my doctor has told me that my cholesterol is under control and everything seems to be doing well.  He has recommended I go back on Fish Oil and Vitamin D.  

To learn more about Hypertension read here

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001502/

Hypertension

Hypertension; HBP; Blood pressure - high

Last reviewed: June 10, 2011.

Hypertension is the term used to describe high blood pressure.

Blood pressure is a measurement of the force against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood through your body.

Blood pressure readings are usually given as two numbers -- for example, 120 over 80 (written as 120/80 mmHg). One or both of these numbers can be too high.

The top number is called the systolic blood pressure, and the bottom number is called the diastolic blood pressure.

• Normal blood pressure is when your blood pressure is lower than 120/80 mmHg most of the time.
• High blood pressure (hypertension) is when your blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg or above most of the time.
• If your blood pressure numbers are 120/80 or higher, but below 140/90, it is called pre-hypertension.

If you have pre-hypertension, you are more likely to develop high blood pressure.

If you have heart or kidney problems, or if you had a stroke, your doctor may want your blood pressure to be even lower than that of people who do not have these conditions.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Many factors can affect blood pressure, including:

• How much water and salt you have in your body
• The condition of your kidneys, nervous system, or blood vessels
• The levels of different body hormones

You are more likely to be told your blood pressure is too high as you get older. This is because your blood vessels become stiffer as you age. When that happens, your blood pressure goes up. High blood pressure increases your chance of having a stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney disease, and early death.

You have a higher risk of high blood pressure if you:

• Are African American
• Are obese
• Are often stressed or anxious
• Drink too much alcohol (more than one drink per day for women and more than two drinks per day for men)
• Eat too much salt in your diet
• Have a family history of high blood pressure
• Have diabetes
• Smoke

Most of the time, no cause of high blood pressure is found. This is called essential hypertension.

High blood pressure that is caused by another medical condition or medication is called secondary hypertension. Secondary hypertension may be due to:

• Chronic kidney disease
• Disorders of the adrenal gland (pheochromocytoma or Cushing syndrome)
• Pregnancy (see: preeclampsia)
• Medications such as birth control pills, diet pills, some cold medications, and migraine medications
• Narrowed artery that supplies blood to the kidney (renal artery stenosis)
• Hyperparathyroidism

Symptoms

Most of the time, there are no symptoms. For most patients, high blood pressure is found when they visit their health care provider or have it checked elsewhere.

Because there are no symptoms, people can develop heart disease and kidney problems without knowing they have high blood pressure.

If you have a severe headache, nausea or vomiting, bad headache, confusion, changes in your vision, or nosebleeds you may have a severe and dangerous form of high blood pressure called malignant hypertension.

Signs and tests

Your health care provider will check your blood pressure several times before diagnosing you with high blood pressure. It is normal for your blood pressure to be different depending on the time of day.

Blood pressure readings taken at home may be a better measure of your current blood pressure than those taken at your doctor's office. Make sure you get a good quality, well-fitting home device. It should have the proper sized cuff and a digital readout.

Practice with your health care provider or nurse to make sure you are taking your blood pressure correctly. See also: Blood pressure monitors for home

Your doctor will perform a physical exam to look for signs of heart disease, damage to the eyes, and other changes in your body.

Tests may be done to look for:

• High cholesterol levels
• Heart disease, such as an echocardiogram or electrocardiogram
• Kidney disease, such as a basic metabolic panel and urinalysis or ultrasound of the kidneys

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to reduce blood pressure so that you have a lower risk of complications. You and your health care provider should set a blood pressure goal for you.

If you have pre-hypertension, your health care provider will recommend lifestyle changes to bring your blood pressure down to a normal range. Medicines are rarely used for pre-hypertension.

You can do many things to help control your blood pressure, including:

• Eat a heart-healthy diet, including potassium and fiber, and drink plenty of water. See: High blood pressure and diet
• Exercise regularly -- at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day.
• If you smoke, quit -- find a program that will help you stop.
• Limit how much alcohol you drink -- one drink a day for women, two a day for men.
• Limit the amount of sodium (salt) you eat -- aim for less than 1,500 mg per day.
• Reduce stress -- try to avoid things that cause you stress. You can also try meditation or yoga.
• Stay at a healthy body weight -- find a weight-loss program to help you, if you need it.

Your health care provider can help you find programs for losing weight, stopping smoking, and exercising. You can also get a referral from your doctor to a dietitian, who can help you plan a diet that is healthy for you.

There are many different medicines that can be used to treat high blood pressure. See: High blood pressure medicines

Often, a single blood pressure drug may not be enough to control your blood pressure, and you may need to take two or more drugs. It is very important that you take the medications prescribed to you. If you have side effects, your health care provider can substitute a different medication.

Expectations (prognosis)

Most of the time, high blood pressure can be controlled with medicine and lifestyle changes.

Complications

When blood pressure is not well controlled, you are at risk for:

• Bleeding from the aorta, the large blood vessel that supplies blood to the abdomen, pelvis, and legs
• Chronic kidney disease
• Heart attack and heart failure
• Poor blood supply to the legs
• Stroke
• Problems with your vision

Calling your health care provider

If you have high blood pressure, you will have regular appointments with your doctor.

Even if you have not been diagnosed with high blood pressure, it is important to have your blood pressure checked during your yearly check-up, especially if someone in your family has or had high blood pressure.

Call your health care provider right away if home monitoring shows that your blood pressure is still high.

Prevention

Adults over 18 should have their blood pressure checked regularly.

Lifestyle changes may help control your blood pressure.

Follow your health care provider's recommendations to modify, treat, or control possible causes of high blood pressure.

References

1. Goldstein LB, Bushnell CD, Adams RJ, Appel LJ, Braun LT, Chaturvedi S, et al. Guidelines for the primary prevention of stroke: a guideline for healthcare professionals from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Stroke. 2011 Feb;42:517-84.
2. Kaplan NM. Systemic hypertension: Treatment. In: Bonow RO, Mann DL, Zipes DP, Libby P, eds. Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 46.
3. Victor, RG. Systemic hypertension: Mechanisms and diagnosis. In: Bonow RO, Mann DL, Zipes DP, Libby P, eds. Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 45.

Review Date: 6/10/2011.

Reviewed by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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