Quincy Arise Coalition event on Friday to address fight against HIV

QUINCY — World AIDS Day, observed annually on Dec. 1, serves as a global movement to unite people in the ongoing battle against HIV and AIDS. On this day, the Quincy ARISE Coalition is the host of a community event titled “Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to End HIV” from 3 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, in the Quincy Senior Family and Resource Center at 639 York.

The coalition is a partnership among Quincy Medical Group, YWCA Quincy, Bella Ease and the Adams County Health Department to address healthcare inequities in the Quincy community.

Attendees of the event can interact with healthcare professionals, including QMG infectious disease physician Dr. Hala Saad, who will be available to address questions and share information on the latest advancements in HIV prevention and treatment, such as injectable HIV medications. The Adams County Health Department will be present, offering free HIV testing from 4 to 6 p.m.

The event aims to eliminate the stigma associated with HIV.

In a press release, Saad said, “Reducing stigma creates an environment where individuals feel more comfortable discussing HIV openly. This fosters honest conversations about prevention, transmission and treatment.”

Marissa Radcliffe, community health worker at QMG, said attendees will experience a fun and informative afternoon.

“We want participants to leave with knowledge, a better understanding that HIV is not a death sentence, and of ways they can support friends, family or others who have received a positive diagnosis,” she said.

Various organizations will be onsite, providing information and resources to enhance understanding of HIV-related issues. There also will be an art contest with the theme “U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable)” to creatively spread the message of HIV prevention.

The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided.