"Being Positive", a public seminar held by AIDS West, took place in Galway on the 5th June.
Speakers included:
Sr. Stan who spoke about her work experiences with organizations including Focus Ireland, The Immigrant Council of Ireland, Young Social Innovators and The Sanctuary.
Shane Mullins, a young man whose world fell apart after a car crash seven years ago, Shane shared his insights on how to survive seemingly impossible challenges.
Maggie Woods, Chairperson of the Irish Thalidomide Association spoke about her life and the challenges she has encountered living with her disability as a result of the drug Thalidomide.
Lorraine O’ Connell and Dr Siobhan O Higgins, Sexual health educators with AIDS West who talked about 25 years of HIV in Ireland, dealing with a positive diagnosis, stigma and the need for ongoing education.
AIDS West is a voluntary organisation funded by HSE West, voluntary contributions from individuals, the community and corporate bodies.
Founded in 1987, they are based in Galway city. They offer the highest quality care and support to those affected by HIV/AIDS/STIs and to those worried about their sexual health. They also offer information and education on all aspects of sexual health.
The organisation has expanded from a small group of dedicated volunteers who gathered together to assist HIV positive people in their final days, to a team of professional, committed people who strive to offer care and support to HIV positive people, their families and carers.