Category Archives: Health

AHF Pharmacy Chicago

DID YOU KNOW about the new pharmacy in  Lakeview?

The Los Angeles-based AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) is a global nonprofit organization providing cutting-edge medicine and advocacy to over 1,500,000 people in 45 countries. “We are currently the largest provider of HIV/AIDS medical care in the world.”

The Lakeview pharmacy is located within  the  Out of the Closet Thrift Store and provides same day delivery, assistance with medication adherence, co-pay assistance on PrEP and HIV medications, and mail delivery along with traditional pharmacy services.  They are a full-scale pharmacy so anyone can come fill medications with them in a discreet and inviting location.

Since 1987, AHF has cared for thousands of people living with HIV and AIDS worldwide. “As we create and implement new programs in communities across the U.S. and abroad, we expand delivery of healthcare and influence over policy with the aim of saving more lives.”

AHF- Lakeview Healthcare Center and AHF Wellness and HIV testing is on-site of this location as well @ 3311 N Halsted. St Chicago, IL  60657.

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Hästens Handmade Mattresses from Sweden now at Bloomingdales Chicago

Bloomingdales Now Proudly Representing Hästens Handmade Mattresses from Sweden

 

Hästens has a rich history running back through six generations and the journey to where they are now is one filled with passion, skill and the pursuit of making the best handcrafted beds in the world. The bond that ties all of Hästens together is their Spirit of Excellence, a way of working and thinking that brings you the best sleep you’ll ever have.

Hästens was born in Sweden in 1852 and from the day they made their first bed, natural materials have always played a fundamental role. In 1852 cotton, horsetail hair, wool and flax were superior to other materials and, surprisingly, even today… that remains the case. And, then as it is now, the best way to craft using these materials is by hand. This tradition of hand craftsmanship gives their bed makers a deeply rooted understanding and mastery of both their art, and the natural materials that are so crucial to its consolidation.

The Beds: 2000T – HERLEWING – EALA – MARANGA

Bloomingdales is so proud to now be representing Hästens in our Mattress Gallery located in our Medinah Home Store at 600 North Wabash Avenue. Please feel free to come in and feel for yourself what all the buzz is about! My name is Derrick Sorles, a Furniture and Mattress Specialist at Bloomingdales, please reach out and make an appointment and I am happy to showcase how Hästens Sleep Systems can change your life!

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World Of Chocolate event Nov 30th

Dishing Indulgence: Chicago’s Premier

World AIDS Day Event Returns

Annual Holiday Gala Raises Funds and HIV Awareness

for the AIDS Foundation of Chicago

 

 The AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) invites Chicagoans to the World of Chocolate gala, Chicago’s premier World AIDS Day event, on Friday, Nov. 30 at Revel Fulton Market. Guests will enjoy the delicious signature creations of chocolatiers and chefs from over 23 of Chicago’s hottest restaurants, hotels and bakeries competing to win the best sweet and savory bites, as well as craft cocktails, with a panel of celebrity judges selecting the night’s best conceptions.

 

In addition to sampling each establishment’s creation, guests will enjoy a light buffet, specialty craft cocktails, open bar, music, a raffle and punchboard with a diverse offering of spectacular prizes.

AFC will also be partnering with Walgreens Boots Alliance in an effort to make this an eco-friendly and zero waste to landfill evening by challenging participating chocolatiers to use only recyclable, reusable and compostable products at the event. Extravagant décor by Kehoe Designs will give life to the night’s theme of International Affair, with complementing cuisines from across the globe.

 

“Our guests expressed great excitement surrounding last year’s International Affair theme,” explained Edward Wagner, AIDS Foundation of Chicago’s Chief External Relations Officer. “Recognizing the global impact that HIV has had, the international community must continue working together to honor those we’ve lost, ensure those living with HIV thrive, and strive to create a world where new HIV cases are rare.”

In commemoration of World AIDS Day on Dec. 1, this year’s signature celebration honors the local, national and international progress the HIV/AIDS community has made to end the epidemic. The movement has observed the Dec. 1 date as a global effort to increase public awareness, while promoting HIV related programming and dialogue. Launched in 1988, the global event followed an international summit among health leaders who saw the need for a larger discussion on HIV/AIDS in every country.

 

Funds raised through World of Chocolate support AFC’s work to end new cases of HIV in Chicago and beyond. Proceeds from the event will help AFC advance its mission, which includes:

·        Supporting efforts to house more than 1,000 Chicagoans each year.

·        Providing more than 5,000 clients with case management services.

·        Training hundreds of medical professionals about PrEP.

·        Empowering AFC to provide policy leadership in state and federal health equity matters

·        Collaborating with people and partners across the state to achieve Getting to Zero Illinois, an ambitious plan to end new HIV transmissions in Illinois by 2030

   Friday, Nov. 30, 2018,   6 to 9 p.m. 

WHERE:  Revel Fulton Market,  1215 W. Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607 

TICKETS:  For more information and to reserve tickets, call 312-334-0935 or visit chocolate.aidschicago.org 

         

 

   General Admission: $145 (includes one event ticket)

   Red Ribbon Ticket: $245 (includes one event ticket, exclusive VIP entrance with a specialty cocktail, private bar and lounge access) – VIP Mile High Club Tix

  Bittersweet Bliss Ticket Package: $900 (includes four event tickets, VIP access, name recognition on event website and electronic program)

               Chocolate Ecstasy Ticket Package: $2,000 (includes ten event tickets, VIP access, name recognition on event website and electronic program)

 

About AFC
The AIDS Foundation of Chicago mobilizes communities to create equity and justice for people living with and vulnerable to HIV and related chronic diseases. AFC envisions a world in which people living with HIV and related chronic diseases will thrive, and new HIV infections will be rare. Learn more at aidschicago.org.

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Free Hiv Test June 27th

Greater Than AIDS has partnered with Walgreens and the Howard Brown Health Clinic to provide free, confidential HIV testing at the Boystown Walgreens (Broadway & Waveland)  Wednesday, June 27th, from 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

Members from the clinic will be on site at Walgreens in private rooms administering tests, providing results, answering questions, and providing counseling on prevention, early treatment, and PrEP – no appointment needed.

National HIV Testing Day will provide free HIV tests in 180 cities this year, including 22 Walgreens locations in Chicago.

 

Greater Than AIDS is a leading public information response to the U.S. domestic HIV/AIDS epidemic with a focus on areas and people most affected.

Emphasizing hope, unity and personal empowerment, Greater Than AIDS is about what is possible when we come together. Whether HIV negative or positive, we all have a role to play in ending HIV/AIDS.

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TPAN 30th Anniversary September 28th

TPAN: 30 Years of Hope

TPAN’s 30th Anniversary and Looking Forward

 

TPAN (Test Positive Aware Network) will celebrate 30 years of service to Chicagoans who are living with or vulnerable to HIV and related health conditions at TPAN: 30 Years of Hope. The event will be held on Thursday, September 28, 2017 at Moonlight Studios, 1446 W. Kinzie St., in Chicago’s West Loop. The evening begins with a VIP reception from 6-7 p.m., where supporters will be able to meet some of TPAN’s founding members and renowned HIV activist Peter Staley. The general reception begins at 7 p.m. and will feature the founders and keynote speaker Staley, who is an early member of ACT UP New York. 2016 Barlesque 9 winner Rob Racine will be the emcee for the evening, with music from Marc “DJ Moose” Moder, an open bar, and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Tickets are $175 for the VIP Reception and $125 for General Admission. Tickets may be purchased online by visiting tpan.com/tickets.

Bernie Brommel, one of the first members of TPAN, recalls what it was like in 1987 when the world had very little information about HIV/AIDS. “You couldn’t go in [to the hospital] and see somebody who was sick or dying. I went to see many, many people… and we had to wear gloves and masks.” TPAN has maintained a steadfast loyalty to clients and community throughout its 30-year history. In a time when people living with HIV can be expected to live a near-normal lifespan, TPAN has a lot to celebrate. However, the battle against HIV/AIDS is far from over. On September 13, 2017, Windy City Times published a five-page account of Brommel’s experience with HIV/AIDS in the 1980s and the beginning of TPAN. Those who can recall the experience of not knowing what was happening to their community during the early years of the epidemic, as well as those too young to remember, are invited to come together at TPAN: 30 Years of Hope. The evening will truly be one of reflection, honor, and hope, while looking toward to the future of TPAN and the eradication of HIV and AIDS.

About TPAN: TPAN is a nonprofit (501c3) agency located in the Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago. TPAN serves those living with and vulnerable to HIV/AIDS and related health conditions, and is publisher of the leading national HIV treatment magazine Positively Aware.

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Chuck Renslow Final White Party August27

  WINDY CITY TIMES


Renslow memorial set
2017-08-23

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A public memorial to remember the life of businessman Chuck Renslow, founder of International Mr. Leather, will be held Sunday, Aug. 27, 2017 at 7 p.m.
The Renslow Family will host its 36th and final White Party celebrating Renslow at Metro, 3730 N. Clark Street, Chicago. That celebration, which is open to the public, will begin with a memorial service and merge into a traditional dance party. The annual White Party celebrated the August birthday of Renslow.

Earlier that day, Hesperia Lodge Ancient Free and Accepted Masons will conduct a masonic funeral ritual for Renslow at Jefferson Masonic Temple.

Renslow died at age 87 June 29.

See www.windycitymediagroup.com/lgbt/Legendary-Chicago-businessman-activist-Chuck-Renslow-dies-/59676.html .

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Howard Brown Health Celebrates Womens Health

 

Howard Brown Health Celebrates Women’s Health at Garden of Eve: Forward

Music, Dancing, Specialty Cocktails, Food and More Will Benefit Howard Brown Health

     Howard Brown Health invites Chicago’s LGBTQ women and allies to join together to celebrate queer and lesbian women’s sexual and reproductive health at Garden of Eve: Forward, taking place on Friday, April 28 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Venue SIX10.

Partygoers will enjoy delicious food, cocktails, photo booth, silent auction, raffle, a very special night of dancing to music spun by DJ Slo ‘Mo, and other wonderful surprises!

Funds raised at Garden of Eve: Forward will enable Howard Brown Health to continue providing clinical, behavioral health, and community health services, which include gynecological care, alternative insemination, breast and cervical cancer screening, HIV and STI testing, and prevention and wellness education for the LGBTQ community.

WHEN:         Friday, April 28, 2017 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

WHERE:       610 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL.

TICKETS:      Early Bird: $75 per person (limited time offer)

           General Admission: $100 per person

(at door $150)      VIP: $200

For more information and to reserve tickets, visit www.howardbrown.org.

 

 

Founded in 1974, Howard Brown Health serves more than 18,000 adults and youth each year in its diverse health and social service delivery system focused around four major programmatic divisions: clinical care, research, education and advocacy. Howard Brown Health is also one of the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender organizations. To learn more, visit www.howardbrown.org.  

 

Howard Brown Health provides affirming, sliding-scale healthcare to all LGBTQ women and allies, including breast / chest cancer screenings, contraceptive management, alternative insemination, transgender healthcare and more.

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Chicago LGBTQ Homeless Youth

homeless-youth-chicago

El Rescate Basic Center which provides prevention services to LGBTQ youth ages 12-17 who are run-aways, couch-surfing, whose family is living in a doubled up situation, who are or are at-risk of homelessness.
El Rescate also provides a Transitional Living Program for LGBTQ and/or HIV positive from the ages of 18-24.
El Rescate Basic Center 
Puerto RicanCultural Center
Office: 872-829-2654 
2703 W. Division St.
Chicago, IL 60622   FACEBOOK  PAGE  HERE

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Howard Brown Chicago

howard brown health care

Howard Brown Health Unveils New Sliding-Scale Fees

$5–$25 Nominal Fee to Further Increase Access to Full-spectrum Healthcare Services

 Howard Brown Health unveiled a new sliding-scale fee for all patients as part of its efforts to increase the accessibility of of health and wellness services. Charges under the new sliding scale start at $5 for patients whose self-reported income is at or below 100% of federal poverty (annual income of $11,880 or less for a family of one).  The new fee structure is effective immediately at all Howard Brown clinic locations.

“Our sliding-scale fee is the bedrock of Howard Brown Health’s commitment to provide high quality, affirming healthcare to everyone who needs our services, regardless of their ability to pay,” said Kristin Keglovitz-Baker, Chief Operating Officer for Howard Brown Health. “As we continue to grow, we hope that the new fee structure will make healthcare even more accessible. Anyone needing our holistic healthcare services is encouraged to choose Howard Brown – the charges we collect from insurance and the sliding-scale enable us to extend care to thousands of low-income, uninsured patients.”

With the new sliding-scale, eligible patients may access a visit with a primary care provider or behavioral health specialist and receive lab work, most procedures, and vaccinations for as little as $5.

For eligible patients, fees range from $5 to $15 based on reported income. People with income up to 200% of federal poverty (annual income of $23,760 for a family of one) are charged $25 under the new free structure.  Other benefits apply for patients access Howard Brown’s HIV/AIDS Ryan White program services.  See complete sliding-scale fee information at howardbrown.org/fee-and-insurance-information/sliding-fee-schedule.

“Our commitment to low-income, uninsured patients is made possible in part by the thousands of privately insured patients who choose Howard Brown as their medical home,” said David Ernesto Munar, President and CEO.  “We are a unique healing community, attending to diverse needs of LGBTQ people and allies.  We take pride in our ability to serve everyone with equal respect, care, and professionalism.”

For more information about Howard Brown, including accepted insurance plans, sliding-scale fees options, and assistance applying for insurance, go to howardbrown.org.

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Hepatitis C on the Rise

hepatitis c on rise

Howard Brown Health Issues Statement on

Newly Released Hepatitis C Data from the CDC

 This week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released preliminary data showing that hepatitis C–related deaths are at an all-time high in the United States. The data finds that more Americans now die as a result of hepatitis C infection than from 60 other infectious diseases reported to the CDC – including HIV, tuberculosis, and pneumococcal disease – combined.

In response, Dr. Magda Houlberg, Chief Clinical Officer for Howard Brown Health, release the following statement:

“Howard Brown Health has been working to increase the numbers of patients screened for hepatitis C (HCV) and to use the most up-to-date treatment approaches for the people we serve. The numbers released by the CDC are very concerning, especially considering risk factors prevalent in the LGBTQ and other communities. Howard Brown uses a unique, multidisciplinary approach to HCV screening and treatment, which includes screening in primary care and sexual health walk-in settings, nurse education, case management, and pharmacy support. With aggressive screening and a robust approach to treatment, we can decrease these numbers in the future.”

In 2015, Howard Brown Health screened 5,743 unique patients for HCV, with a positivity rate of 2.5%. Also in 2015, an HCV project team was formed, meeting weekly to review patients on treatment, or in queue for, treatment. All Howard Brown physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants participate in a training for community-based medical providers in effectively treating HCV in the primary care setting.

In 2015 Howard Brown’s HCV team served 192 patients living with active HCV, and cured 44 patients.

Factors that contribute to the spread of HCV include lack of access to healthcare, stigma, lack of availability of sterile needles and syringes for hormone treatment, outdated views, lack of available sterile needles and syringes for people who inject drugs, barriers to education and screening, sexual transmission, and poor insurance coverage.

Dr. Houlberg added, “We encourage people concerned about possible HCV infection or who need guidance exploring treatment options to consult medical experts.”

Howard Brown’s Walk-in Clinic offers access to screening on a sliding-scale fee structure six-days a week.  Hours and other information are posted at howardbrown.org. Patients may also consult their provider on an appointment basis.  Call 773-388-1600 to schedule an appointment.

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Chicago Personal Trainer Fitness Tips

personal trainers chicago right fit for you

Right Fit for You

Chicago Trainer Pat Charette will be a  new fitness contributor to BestGayChicago.com  with tips  to keep you fit!

For Pat Charette, healthy living is a passion and lifestyle. He helps promote and educate this lifestyle through sports nutrition, training, strength and conditioning, flexibility/mobility, and safe/effective supplementation. In college, Pat earned a degree in Sports Medicine which taught him how to train athletes as well as the general public.

He loves the fitness industry and looks at it as prevention, not treatment. Let Pat help you fully optimize your life! 

personal trainer Patrick Charette

THIS WEEK   on YouTube  he talks  about BURNING  BODY  FAT!  

7 Steps to help with Fat Loss!  of course – it takes  will power  too –  be  he  reveals  some tips  that you may not be doing…..  WATCH

 

The Client/Trainer relationship is very intimate. Personal Trainers not only help their clients get into tip-top shape, but many of them become a client’s friend and someone they confide in and trust. If you aren’t comfortable and can’t truly be yourself with your Personal Trainer, chances are you will not reach your full potential.

“Right Fit for You wasn’t solely created because of a fear of running into a close minded Personal Trainer, but because I wanted to provide the LGBT community with an online marketplace of Personal Trainers that the LGBT community can relate to– no questions asked, no insecurities. At the end of the day, Right Fit for You is all about ensuring a comfortable personal training atmosphere for the LGBT community from beginning to end. Every certified Personal Trainer profiled on Right Fit for You will not only will help you get into shape, but will also identify as LGBT or as a straight ally to the community.”  says  founder  Sam  Provenzano

right fit for you chicago personal trainers

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Cuddle and Touch for Emotional and Physical Needs

adam lippin cuddle cuddlist

We all want love, acceptance and connection with other people. We’re social beings, and this connection with others is part of our emotional, physical and spiritual DNA.

Touch plays an important role in building these connections, increasing scientific evidence clearly shows a connection that lack of touch can lead to depression, anxiety and a myriad of heath issues, and an inability to connect with others.

Most of us don’t get enough touch in our lives.

We’re touch-deprived, and most of us don’t even know it consciously. All we know is that there’s loneliness and stress and a deep sense of missing out. We feel this because there’s a biochemical yearning for something that is missing in our lives. And there is something missing: touch and the connection with others that it fosters.

“That’s why we started Cuddlist,”  says  Adam Lippin, Co-founder and  CEO  of  CUDDLIST. Safe, non-sexual, consensual touch fills a need that’s badly neglected in our society. Cuddling relaxes us and reduces stress at the very least, and on the deeper level it nourishes our soul and helps us get in touch with our higher self. Much like yoga and meditation, non-sexual touch is healing and transformative.”

Cuddlist brings together those who need touch (and that would be just about all of us!) with Certified, professional cuddlers who are experienced, safe, well-versed in cuddling techniques and follow a code of conduct that set the conditions for a great session. There  have been  LOTS  of press on this group  over the last year – check it out  HERE.


 

  THE   CHICAGO  NETWORK  IS  GROWING!

Become a certified CUDDLIST or  FIND a CUDDLIST in Chicago


 

While any two people can cuddle, of course, what sets Cuddlist apart is that we are  creating the marketplace for transformative cuddling, and we bring the professionalism and best practices that make it work; Cuddlist training is overseen by my co-founder, Madelon Guinazzo, and she both has years of experience as a full-time Cuddlist and knowledge of what works in practice.

cuddling-party-event-certified-training

While Cuddlist is something special, and fills an important gap in our world, I also want to share what it means to me personally.

“I’ve been a yoga and meditation practitioner for more than 20 years. Yoga has been an animating principle in my life that has seen me through college, drug addiction, the corporate world in New York, loss and death, and the birth of my son and my relationship with my amazing  spouse. I’m also a touchy-feely “hugger,” and when I go to shake someone’s hand I’m keenly aware how restricted touch is in our society.”

Most would agree that touch is therapeutic, and the rush of oxytocin we produce when we cuddle is great, but in my experience cuddling also can be something deeper.

American Buddhist Jack Kornfield, in his book, After the Ecstasy, the Laundry: How the Heart Grows Wise on the Spiritual Path, talks about how the simple act of being present can be a deeply spiritual practice. I think cuddling, if non-sexual and approached without expected outcomes in mind, can help us be present and raise our spiritual awareness.

So while I’m a “hugger,” and I immediately see the value that cuddling can play as a corrective in our society, I also think it contains a deeply spiritual component.

Indian civil rights leader Mohandas Gandhi said we must be the change we want to see in the world, and I want to play my part by encouraging non-sexual touch and the emergence of what might be called cuddle yoga.

“Touch is important, and we don’t get enough of it. I want to change that, and that’s why I, along with my Co-Founder, started Cuddlist.  Will you join us?”

 

Are you ready to give yourself the gift of nurturing touch?

Book a therapeutic, non-sexual, cuddle session with a Certified Cuddlist today.

Find out more at CUDDLIST. Learn more;   FIND  a  CUDDLIST  and/or  become a CUDDLIST!

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Team to End AIDS

aids foundation chicago ride run for aids

For over 10 years, TEAM TO END AIDS (T2) has trained more than 5,000 athletes and raised $10 million benefiting AIDS Foundation Chicago and HIV/AIDS-related community charities.

Working with Fitness Formula Club (FFC) USA Track & Field/Triathlon coaches, T2 offers world class training programs for multiple endurance events.

T2 is about the journey as much as it is about the destination. Coaches, staff and athletes will help you train, fundraise and celebrate life, making your T2 experience unforgettable.

Attend an upcoming information session to learn more about T2!

 

ALSO

2015 was a big year for HIV! Not only were there huge advancements in science, but the epidemic also found its way back into mainstream media through art, pop culture and social activism. As we gear up for another stimulating year of progression towards putting an end to new HIV diagnoses, take a peek at these 10 tweets that tell the story of a big year in the HIV epidemic (in no particular order):

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LGBT Friendly Personal Trainers

chicago-gay-personal-trainers-2

The gym I go to is about 10%  gay.

And out of 10 trainers, I know one male trainer is gay.

I know that only because someone who trained with him, told me! Some of the other trainers at my gym might be LGBT friendly….but how does one know?  I don’t want to work with some obnoxious testosterone filled male jock who has a thing against gay people.

If you’re going to invest time, money, and trust in a person to guide you in the right direction, then you need to make the right choice. If you want to find the perfect person to help you, then you’re right to be picky. Choose a trainer who will cater to your personal needs and learning preferences. While some people want to be pushed to their limits by a drill sergeant type, others are going to work better with positive reinforcement and gentle encouragement. Your trainer should fit your personality and motivation style.

Chicago entrepreneur Sam Provenzano launched Right Fit For You (RightFitForYou.com). He says, “I just really felt that there was a need for Right Fit for You. The client/trainer relationship is very intimate. Personal Trainers not only help their clients get into tip-top shape, but many of them become a client’s friend and someone they confide in and trust. If you aren’t comfortable and can’t truly be yourself with your Personal Trainer, chances are you will not reach your full potential.”

 

Right Fit for You, is the premiere LGBT-Friendly Personal Trainer Referral Service!

 

Right Fit for You wasn’t solely created because of a fear of running into a close minded Personal Trainer, but because I wanted to provide the LGBT community with an online marketplace of Personal Trainers that the LGBT community can relate to– no questions asked, no insecurities. At the end of the day, Right Fit for You is all about ensuring a comfortable personal training atmosphere for the LGBT community from beginning to end. Every certified Personal Trainer profiled on Right Fit for You will not only will help you get into shape, but will also identify as LGBT or as a straight ally to the community.

Although our focus is primarily geared toward the LGBT community — anyone is welcome to utilize Right Fit for You as a means to find the right Personal Trainer who will fit all of their needs and budget. So whether you are just starting to work out or looking to gain some muscle or lose a few pounds, Right Fit For You can help!

personal trainers chicago gay lesbian

Step 1: Search through their Personal Trainer database

Search their personal trainer database at no cost! All of the trainers are hand-screened and confirmed to be currently certified. All you have to do is enter your zip code and radius, and browse through the database. You  should read the trainer bio’s and pick the Right Fit For You!

Step 2: Contact Trainer

Send your goals and contact information directly from the site to your desired trainer. If he/she has their contact information listed, give them a call or send them an email to schedule a consultation with your personal trainer and get started on achieving your fitness goals. Tell them you found them through Right Fit for You!

Step 3: Tell your friends about Right Fit for You!

 

It’s  easy  and FREE!    Check it out today!   RIGHT FIT FOR YOU.

*If you are a personal trainer, looking to join Right Fit For You, here is the link with more information.

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Legal Council for Health Justice

aids-legal-council-chicago-justice

Acclaimed Chicago-area HIV Legal Services Nonprofit Expands Mission, Changes Name to “Legal Council for Health Justice”

One of the region’s most respected nonprofit organizations, AIDS Legal Council of Chicago, is changing its name to Legal Council for Health Justice. The new name reflects an agency expansion from single-disease services and advocacy on behalf of individuals and families impacted by HIV/AIDS to more broadly use the power of the law to build better lives across the lifespan of vulnerable people and communities challenged by chronic, disabling, and stigmatized health conditions.

The change is the result of an 18-month transformation which merged three established nonprofit programs — AIDS Legal Council, Homeless Outreach Project, and Chicago Medical-Legal Partnership for Children – under one roof. In doing so, the agency has created one of the largest independent organizations in the country built entirely around delivery of legal services through models of care known as medical-legal partnerships (“MLPs”), forming a Midwestern hub of MLP program and policy development.

The medical-legal partnership approach aims to improve the well-being of people and communities by leading health, public health, and legal sectors in an integrated, “upstream” approach to combatting health-harming social conditions. The three programs will keep their names and continue to each grow high-quality education, client service, and policy work – just under the ‘umbrella’ of the new agency name. Current health and human service partners include Ruth M. Rothstein CORE Center, Fantus Clinic, La Rabida Children’s Hospital, Comer Children’s Hospital, Lurie Children’s Hospital, Mercy Hospital, Howard Brown Health Center, TPAN, Austin Health Center, Friend Family Health Center, and Breakthrough Urban Ministries.

In the past fiscal year, agency programs have trained more than 1000 clinicians and clients, provided direct legal representation to almost 1500 adults, children, and their families, and made significant contributions to improving access and engagement in community well-being and economic security. Notably, AIDS Legal Council partnered with AIDS Foundation of Chicago with pro bono assistance from law firm Jenner & Block to make Illinois the first state in the nation to explicitly prohibit discrimination against persons with HIV in insurance plans. Since then, insurers across the nation have voluntarily followed suit. Similarly, Chicago Medical-Legal Partnership for Children was instrumental in protecting eligibility for Early Intervention, an early childhood program that helps close the gaps for infants and toddlers with developmental delays, from being cut in half. This program was also the force behind a key report in 2015 that triggered successful legislation (Public Act 099-0325) ensuring that students in charter schools have the same health and safety protections as students in district-run public schools statewide.

Most recently, the agency has been in the news for its leadership in two class action lawsuits to spur the State of Illinois to release payments for Medicaid-funded health services to medical providers statewide (Memisovski v. Maram and Beeks v. Bradley) despite a state budget impasse which began on July 1, 2015. This effort is the result of a decades-long collaboration between the Legal Council for Health Justice and the Shriver Center with pro bono assistance from law firm Goldberg Kohn. The litigation is presently pending.

LEGAL COUNCIL FOR HEALTH JUSTICE

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AIDS RUN WALK Chicago 2015

aids-walk-chicago

AIDS Run & Walk Chicago is AFC’s grassroots fundraising event where people from all walks of life help change the story of HIV in our lifetime.

As beneficiaries of the event, AFC and our CommunityDirect partners are greatly impacted – beyond just the obvious ways.

AIDS Run & Walk Chicago stands up to the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS allowing progress to continue toward ending the epidemic. Run & Walk invigorates the sector by increasing awareness for the cause, growing our passionate community and allowing new leaders to emerge.

In 2014, AIDS Run & Walk Chicago raised over $394,000 net to benefit the AIDS Foundation of Chicago.

Over and above that, we granted $240,000 to our CommunityDirect partners. These funds allow us to continue saving and improving the lives of those living with or at risk for HIV.

SIGN UP TODAY!!

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AIDS Foundation Chicago

aids-walk-chicago

IN THIS MOMENT

Learn how the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) has worked to change the HIV epidemic over the past 30 years — and how together we can change the future of HIV through breakthrough resources like PrEP, the Affordable Care Act and Treatment as Prevention.

MAKE THIS MOMENT MATTER

This moment in the history of HIV relies on your support. Make a donation to AFC today.

Help us share this pivotal moment by using #30YearsofAction.

 

WATCH THE VIDEO

 

The AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) commemorated its 30th year of action in the HIV/AIDS community with a celebratory gala on Saturday, May 16, at the Hilton Chicago. The milestone event hosted 680 guests and raised significant funds for ongoing prevention, care and advocacy services in the fight against HIV epidemic nationwide. Actress Amy Landecker, of the Golden Globe award-winning series Transparent, served as the master of ceremonies for the event.

President/CEO John Peller set the tone for the evening with powerful remarks about the evolution of the HIV/AIDS community.

“New cases have been cut by 40 percent in the past decade, but with that progress came apathy. We have made great strides over the years but AIDS is still a problem and we must not lose this moment to continue the fight,” Peller stated.

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AIDS Foundation Gala May 16th

aids-foundation-chicago-gala

The BIGGEST Gala of the year  is just 2 weeks  away!

An incredible evening to remember and raise funds!

Plan to arrive at 6 pm! You will punch your way to prizes at our interactive and celebrated punch board (details coming soon) and enter chances to win a luxury vacation to Aruba or New York City in our raffle while sipping on spirits and nibbling on hors d’oeuvres

·         Amy Landecker, star in Amazon Prime’s series Transparent and former AFC staff member, will serve as the Master of Ceremonies

·         Tom Kehoe will receive the Community Impact Award; Ernie Rodriguez will receive the Lori Kaufman Volunteer Award

·         Paddles will raise during our live auction for luxury vacations to Hawaii, Las Vegas and Coronado Island

·         Paddles will raise again in honor of AFC’s innovative work in the community

·         DJKiss will get you grooving to the best beats in town—dancing until midnight!

TICKETS HERE!

 

ALSO Save these dates!

Team to End AIDS Endurance Training Program Registration

August 15, 2015—Dance for Life

September 26, 2015—AIDS Run & Walk Chicago

December 3, 2015—World of Chocolate

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David A. Shifrin – Award Winning Cosmetic Surgery

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How do select a great cosmetic doctor? Look at their credentials and awards.

Established in 2010, the award winning cosmetic surgery practice of David A Shifrin MD, provides the complete experience by combining excellent surgical results with personalized care.

Dr. David Shifrin specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body.

The nose can have a dramatic impact on our overall appearance. It is in a central position of the face, and when it is out of balance, it can create disharmony amongst other features. Nose shaping or rhinoplasty by Dr David Shifrin can have a profound effect on the appearance of the entire face. Rhinoplasty surgery utilizes techniques such as cartilage removal, nasal bone manipulation and/or tip shaping. It is designed to improve the appearance of the nose and, in some cases, to improve breathing. Dr Shifrin uses two techniques, closed and open, to modify nasal architecture.

Common Changes Include:

  • Shortening, narrowing, or straightening
  • Eliminating a prominent hump
  • Refining the tip or nostrils
  • Reducing a Wide or Bulbous Tip

Many of our patients comment on their longstanding desire to change the appearance of their nose. While there are classic descriptions of what the ideal shape and size of a nose should be, the final decision for nose shaping is uniquely tailored for each individual’s face and goals,” says Dr. Shifrin.

Whether your nose shaping goals are small or you desire a more profound change, Dr. Shifrin has the experience and skill to help you achieve your goal of a better looking, naturally balanced nose.

If you would like to learn more about the Rhinoplasty procedure, click here to request a consultation with Dr Shifrin today. Alternatively you can call our office at (312) 590-3572 to schedule your appointment.
Dr. Shifrin maintains multiple convenient office locations. He focuses his time at Shifrin Plastic Surgery, Downtown Chicago, on improving the aesthetic appearance of his patients through the use of state of the art skin care, botox and fillers and surgery. He prides himself on enhancing his patient’s physical attributes, blending his love of anatomy and science with his surgical expertise to artistically refine the outward beauty of his patients.

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Chicago Liposuction and 3D Abdominal Etching

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January usually brings New Years Resolutions and many men turn their attention to their bodies. Some resolutions include losing weight and/or adding muscle and looking and feeling fitter.

(left: Model photo)

With Summer coming, many people wish they could wave a magic wand and have abs! Or at least reduce the abdominal bulge and waistline inches a bit, to give us a slimmer and tighter body.

As we get older, it’s harder and harder to realize our fitness goals and our bodies may not respond to diet and exercise, the same way they did in our 20’s.

There are various techniques of liposuction and/or 3D Abdominal Etching that may be the answer to help you. Liposuction removes fat from your body using suction. In recent years, improved techniques have made liposuction safer, easier, and less painful. Liposuction is usually done as an outpatient procedure in a properly equipped doctor’s office or hospital. In general, it does not require an overnight stay unless a large volume of fat is being removed. Local anesthesia is used in some cases. And you may or may not be given a sedative to help you relax. The main purpose of liposuction is to reshape one or more areas of your body, not to reduce body weight. Liposuction is typically used on “problem” areas that have not responded well to diet and exercise.

High-definition liposuction or abdominal etching is a great way to improve the overall definition of the abdomen. For some individuals, their genetic makeup restricts them from attaining the chiseled abdomen appearance they desire. Abdominal etching, a technique specific type of liposuction, will thin the remaining fat on top of the stomach muscles and accentuate the natural break points in the wall. The resulting contour lines aid in the creation of the appearance of a muscular abdomen or “six pack”.

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(Actual before and after photos of patient)

Established in 2010, the award winning cosmetic surgery practice of David A Shifrin MD, provides the complete experience by combining excellent surgical results with personalized care. Dr Shifrin has the training, expertise and experience to make your dreams of a healthy appearing, attractive body and abdomen a reality.

A native of Northbrook, Illinois, Dr. David Shifrin is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, respected for his work with cosmetic surgery and breast cancer reconstruction. Dr. Shifrin returned to his home town of Chicago in 2010 after years of training in the Midwest and South. His travels afforded him a learning experience with some of the most respected plastic surgeons. His academic accomplishments, which include multiple peer reviewed journal article publications and national conference presentations, and his love of teaching and mentoring led him to seek out an academic appointment with the University of Illinois at Chicago division of plastic surgery as an assistant clinical professor.

Dr. David Shifrin specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face, breast and body. He is a plastic surgeon who completed a highly sought-after integrated training program in Michigan, followed by two advanced fellowships. The first, at the Medical College of Wisconsin, concentrated on reconstructive microsurgery. The second fellowship focused on Aesthetic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Joseph Hunstad, a world renowned plastic surgeon in the area of breast and body contouring.

Dr. Shifrin maintains multiple convenient office locations. He focuses his time at Shifrin Plastic Surgery, Downtown Chicago, on improving the aesthetic appearance of his patients through the use of state of the art skin care, botox and fillers and surgery. He prides himself on enhancing his patient’s physical attributes, blending his love of anatomy and science with his surgical expertise to artistically refine the outward beauty of his patients.

Dr. Shifrin is devoted to providing the best possible experience to those he cares for. He has been awarded Top Plastic Surgeon Chicago region 2012 and 2013 by Health Tap, Patient’s Choice Award and Most Compassionate Doctor Award in 2012, 2013 and 2014 by American Registry.

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(left: Model photo)

In addition to seeing patients at Shifrin Plastic Surgery (680 N. Lake Shore Drive), he currently practices with the Advocate Medical Group at Christ hospital in Oak Lawn, Illinois. Dr. Shifrin looks forward to serving all of his patients with professional and personalized care.

If you like what you have been reading here, request a consultation with Dr Shifrin to learn more about how these procedures can help you achieve your desired appearance. You are encouraged to print your favorite photos and bring them with you during your consultation to help communicate your goals and expectations.

Keep in mind that each patient is unique. Plastic surgery is a blending of art and science and results are thus variable.

David Shifrin MD

CHICAGO: 312.590.3572

OAK LAWN: 708.684.4198

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