#ratrust

[darrenstuart]

via The Startup Pitch

[thestartuppitch]

Pitch for raTrust Company / App Name: raTrust What does it do? We help people who are endangered by STI and HIV.

[ratrust]

There can hardly be an easier way for HIV to spread than to have someone who is infected with the virus share a needle with someone who is not. You may not know your friend is positive, you may not be able to see the microscopic flecks of blood left in the syringe or on the needle, but you can be sure that you put yourself at risk each time your share a needle. Don't do it, whether you are sharing drugs, mediation or steroids.

[ratrust]

You wouldn't shun your friends for contracting cancer. So why do we treat HIV differently? Many of those who are diagnosed as HIV-positive report feeling isolated or shunned. The raTrust works actively to end discrimination against those with HIV, be that in the family, workplace or society in general.

[ratrust]

Knowing your HIV status is a gift to yourself and those who love you. Show that you care and get tested. Be bold. Know your status and put your mind at rest. The raTrust helps people to access HIV testing in person and by post. Please show us some love too, and donate to help us get one more person tested.

[ratrust]

Photographer Will Corder set out to explore themes of the stigma surrounding HIV and in doing so he has created a stunning set of portraits that remind us that HIV doesn't happen to strangers, it happens to people. These are sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, lovers, friends. They could be your parents, your children, your spouse.

  The raTrust is teaming up with Will to create an exhibition that will take place in both Bournemouth and London this coming December, to coincide with World AIDS Day. We are still looking for more HIV+ people to take part. You can find out more about the project, and how you can take part and tell your story at raTrust Blog

[ratrust]

You don't judge your friends, family or colleagues when they announce they are seriously ill with cancer or other life-threatening illnesses. So why do so many people think it is acceptable to judge someone with a positive HIV diagnosis? Compassion is far better for the health of anyone with an illness, as well as being better for your soul.

[ratrust]

Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the UK. Just because that girl looks beautiful does not mean she is infection free. An amazing one in every 37 sexually active women under the age of 25 in England has had chlamydia in the last year. Chlamydia, which does not always show symptoms in men or women, can impact on female fertility. So being careless now can have a huge effect on you or your sexual partner's future.

Stay safe and always wear a condom.

Have you or a friend suffered from chlamydia? Feel free to share your stories or ask us for advice below.

[ratrust]

Intravenous drug use is now often ignored as an agent of HIV transmission, but injecting is still the second largest cause of the spread of the virus. Drug users often feel they are safe amongst a group of friends, but sharing a needle, even 'just this once' can so often be deadly. The raTrust is working to educate drug users and anyone who may be tempted to share a needle. Please share this image to help get the word out.