NEW YORK, — The Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) announced an educational grant to The American Fertility Association (AFA), for the purpose of increasing awareness of family-building options for HIV-positive men and women. This work was initiated in 2012 with the assistance of Growing Generations and International Fertility Law Group.
In an effort to increase awareness of the medical strides that currently allow HIV-positive individuals to safely have biologically-linked offspring, EJAF and The AFA have joined forces to implement a grass-roots educational campaign specifically targeting HIV-positive individuals, the physicians who serve them, reproductive endocrinologists (fertility specialists), and community-based organizations.
The campaign will focus on two underserved locations in the Southern United States and will utilize a social media campaign and a web-based, individualized pathway to parenthood for HIV-positive individuals, to be hosted on The AFA’s website, including resources for both men and women with HIV considering pregnancy. The campaign will also feature a seminar for professionals on HIV family-building options to educate the medical community on the science and issues involved. In every stage, collaboration with local agencies will be at the forefront.
“We’re honored to have support from Elton John AIDS Foundation to help bring hope and awareness to those living with HIV and desiring to safely have biologically-related children,” said Ken Mosesian, Executive Director of The American Fertility Association. Mosesian continued, “This work will also give us the platform from which to speak about the continued need for HIV prevention, including condom use.”
“Over the years, advancements in drug therapy and treatment have changed the lives of many people living with HIV/AIDS, making it possible for them to live longer, fuller, healthier lives,” said EJAF Executive Director Scott Campbell. “HIV-positive people are entitled to be a vital part of our society, just like everyone else. Thanks to groundbreaking advancements in fertility science, there is no reason that children shouldn’t be part of that equation. EJAF is proud to join with The AFA in championing the human rights of people with HIV, including their right to have families of their own.”
