Category Archives: Health
AIDS Foundation of Chicago “Change My Story” Campaign Debuts Smartphone-Driven Ads
Smartphone-Driven Ads to Connect People to HIV Prevention and Care Services
To
mark National HIV Testing Day, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC)
debuted a series of smartphone-driven bus shelter ads on the South and
West Sides of Chicago to
help African Americans connect to HIV testing and care services.
The
larger-than-life ads, featuring community ambassadors, are part of the agency’s community-level educational campaign, known as
Change My Story, designed to inspire communities of color to connect to life-extending health care services. A
2010 report
from the Pew Research Center on technology trends indicated
African-Americans boast the highest rates of any demographic group when
it comes to interacting with the community via text message
and other non-traditional platforms.
“Change My Story
is about empowering people to take control of their life and health,
with respect to HIV/AIDS and all life-changing illnesses,” said David
Ernesto Munar,
AFC President and CEO. “Nowadays it seems people rarely go anywhere
without their cell phone. But it’s actually more than a phone – it’s a
lifeline to testing, care and support.”
The
smartphone-driven bus shelter ads feature scannable “quick response”
(QR) codes to instantly direct mobile users to videos from community
ambassadors and to the HIV testing
and care website, ChangeMyStory.org. The videos are
It Gets Better-style testimonials from young Black men, women,
clergy, and members of the “ball community,” a dynamic LBGT subculture
in which individuals compete for prizes and respect by “walking” or
“vogueing.”
Change My Story asks individuals to “join the movement” in three distinct ways:
Say yes to the test. It’s about getting tested for HIV/AIDS, but also other diseases that can steal moments from your life (hypertension, high cholesterol, hepatitis, diabetes, and cancer). Make your health a priority and experience more of the moments in life that are important to you.
Connect to care. ChangeMyStory.org will help you connect to care services that are right for you and the experts who can help. Find out what you need to know to take control – whether or not you have health insurance.
Spread the word. Each one, reach one. Spread the word to your friends and family. Encourage them to take control of their own health – like you did.
For more information, visit aidschicago.org.
Northwestern Memorial Hospital Ranks High with Gay LGBT Healthcare
Northwestern Memorial Hospital is one of only three hospitals in Illinois named a “Leader in LGBT Healthcare Equality” in the 2012 Healthcare Equality Index (HEI) report.
The HEI is an annual survey conducted by the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) Foundation, the educational arm of the country’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) organization. Northwestern Memorial was commended for its commitment to equitable, inclusive care for LGBT patients and their families who can face challenges in accessing adequate healthcare.
My partner and I both see Dr. Eric Christoff, at the NMPG office on Halsted. He has been our doctor for 8 years and we highly recommend him and NMPG to EVERYONE WE KNOW!
“We are proud to be recognized for our commitment to serving the LGBT community in Chicago,” said Dennis Murphy, executive vice president and chief operating officer at Northwestern Memorial. “We treat a very vast, diverse patient population and have long recognized the value of tailoring care to an individual’s unique healthcare needs. Our Patients First mission drives us to assure every patient receives the best care—period. And we think this recognition underscores that commitment.”
Northwestern Memorial was named a Leader in Healthcare Equality after demonstrating its ability to meet several key indicators for equitable care, including nondiscrimination policies for LGBT patients and employees, a guarantee of equal visitation for same-sex partners and parents, and training in LGBT patient-centered care for key staff. Only 234 healthcare facilities nationwide were recognized as leaders.
To further meet the needs of the LGBT community, Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group (NMPG) employs several physicians who specialize in the needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals. They strive to educate both patients and other medical providers about the unique healthcare needs of LGBT patients. They are also strong advocates for creating a welcoming environment where their patients can receive quality non-judgmental care. To learn more about NMPG’s program, visit http://www.nmpg.com/internal-
Beyond its commitment to serving LGBT patients, Northwestern Memorial also strives to provide an inclusive work environment for its employees with nondiscrimination employment policies and same-sex domestic partner benefits. An affiliate-wide networking group called the Northwestern Chicago Out Network exists for the support and encouragement of LGBT faculty, staff, students, fellows, and residents on the Northwestern Chicago campus.
The Most Delicous Nutritious Snack – from Farrells eXtreme Bodyshaping of Chicago
You all know by now, Derrick and I are enrolled in Farrells eXtreme Bodyshaping, and are evangelists for the program!
I always knew I could not live on pizza and pasta and have the body I wanted! But I also am very unimaginative in the kitchen, and find myself eating a lot of the same things.
I have been a long time fan of protein and nutrition bars – you just have to pay close attention to whats in them. Some of them ARE NOT HEALTHY AT ALL! Loaded with Sugar! And they can get expensive to eat every day.
So I was happy when Farrells owner Jason, gave me this super easy, very healthy, make at home recipe for chocolate protein bars! It literally takes 5 minutes to make a batch.
1 C. Peanut butter (you should be eating natural peanut butter without the trans fat)
a couple teaspoons of honey
1 C. rolled oats
1 TBSP. baking Cocoa
1 1/2 C. Chocolate Protein Powder
1/4 c water
All you do is take the peanut butter and the honey and microwave it for about 30-45 seconds.
Then add the oats and cocoa and stir it together a bit. Add the Protein powder and water and just mix and mash it all together. Sometimes a dash more water is needed – if it is not all mixed well and clumping together nicely.
Then I take a sheet of foil, and spray it with PAM or something similar. Dump the mixture onto the foil. Then I wet my hand, and smash it and smooth down and out. I like mine about 1/2″ thick. Lay it in the fridge for a few hours and when it starts to harden up, you can cut it into pieces, which you can snack on all week. It’s easy. And TOTALLY healthy.
At night, Derrick takes one small low fat yogurt and dumps it into a bowl. Takes a bar and crumbles it over the yogurt and sprinkles on a few almonds. It is the most decadent, healthy desert you have ever eaten!
FYI – Farrells is in the final days of accepting new members for their summer session – and if you mention this article, Jason will offer you a sweet deal on certain time slots!
. FARRELL’S EXTREME
BODY SHAPING
821 W. Blackhawk
Off Halsted, S. of North Ave.
312-624-9794
JOIN FXB.com
Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping – Chicago Spring Deals
My partner and I
discovered Farrell’s eXtreme Body Shaping this Winter. We joined the
first 10 week session to officially launch in Chicago, in January.
When they launched in January they offered 3 class choices – 2 in the AM, and 1 in the evening.
The next session will run April 14 thru June 23. And they will now offer 6 classes a day!
If you mention our site, you can get a big discount for the 7am, 6:30pm, or 7:30pm classes!
(see classes and pricing online)
We have both seen great results, and plan to continue on with the program in April. We have both seen our body fat drop, inches melt off our waistline and our muscle mass
grow.
In 45 minutes a day, six days a week, (yes! 6 days a week!) Farrell’s can help you make
real changes in your fitness and overall health. Results are typical
with the Farrell’s program. In 10 weeks with Farrell’s, you will see the
eXtreme changes you expect out of your fitness and nutrition
commitments.
To enroll you must make an appointment to sign
up in person at the facility before Friday April 13th. OR, come in
during their evening hours of 5pm to 8pm.
Farrell’s eXtreme Body Shaping
821 W. Blackhawk Off Halsted, S. of North Ave.
312-624-9794
*If you do not get through when calling –
leave a message. Sometimes the staff is tied up leading classes or
helping other clients.
Get Paid! HIV Vaccine Study Needs YOU!
We’re looking for 18-50 year old, HIV-negative men and transwomen who ♥ men to volunteer in a vaccine study.
More than 30,000 people around
the world have volunteered
in an HIV vaccine study. BUT MORE ARE STILL NEEDED.
Every 10 minutes, someone in the United States is infected with HIV. A
preventive vaccine against HIV offers the best long-term hope to end
this worldwide epidemic. Finding a safe and effective HIV vaccine that
will protect people is a huge task. We cannot do it without your help.
Don’t worry…you cannot become infected with HIV
from the vaccine.
You will be compensated for your time.
Call 312-413-5897 Ref. # 0417
Arbonne Health and Wellness Products Come to Chicago
I recently discovered ARBONNE!
And wanted to tell you about it! Arbonne is a highly
regarded, premium brand with a Swiss heritage. The products are healthy,
botanically based and inspired by nature. The Arbonne experience starts
with changing the appearance of your skin, then it’s about changing
your life. – And with harsh, dry, cold Chicago winters, we can all use a little Arbonne!
“We
know that when it comes to buying skin care, cosmetics and nutrition
products, the recommendations and advice from people you trust are
important.“
pure, safe, beneficial™
I was on a search for better anti-aging products, than the ones I was using. And I found Arbonne. They have a line called RE9 for Men. 4 easy to use products with ingredients to soften and minimize signs of aging and helping with fine lines!
I also love the beach and sun in the summer – and I found that they offer before and after sun products. And again, these are made with natural ingredients, which is important to me.
Arbonne products are dermatologist-tested and botanically
based. Arbonne offers premium-quality beauty, health and wellness
products with targeted results. “We employ consumer and clinical testing
to reinforce our research and ensure our proprietary formulas deliver
unparalleled performance.” – and in most cities, there are local reps to help you make your purchases and offer advice.
Troy Karnoff is my local Chicago specialist.
CHECK IT OUT!
2012 – Get The Body You Want with Farrell’s Extreme Body Shaping
This year, as I turned 45, I realized my body WAS NOT what it used to be.
When I had to buy a bigger pant size, THAT WAS IT. ENOUGH. I am getting my body back. I did just quit smoking – now I need to back on a fitness regimen.
A friend told me Farrell’s Extreme Body Shaping was about to open in Lincoln Park. I looked at the photos, talked to the owner (who is gay) and joined!
Farrell’s located on 821 W. Blackhawk Street in Lincoln Park is the newest of the FXB facilities. (Right near North and Clybourn).
It is owned and operated by Jason Hedden and Bret Sharp. Jason is a long-time member, Instructor and Coach in the FXB program. He began his journey in 2007 having lost 32 pounds in 10 Weeks and 9% body-fat.
He has a background in Martial Arts and holds a black belt in Tae Kwon. He has managed and operated two facilities in Iowa. He moved to Chicago from Iowa with his husband, Danny, in order to open his own FXB facility.
“Our fitness facilities provide a
family atmosphere where everyone, regardless of their beginning fitness level,
feels welcome. We stand proudly on our track record of helping real
people see real results. Our graduation rate is very strong. More
than 80% of people who begin our 10-Week program, finish, and everyone who
completes the 10-Week Challenge will see results.” says Jason.
Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping®
is a body changing, life-style transforming fitness program designed to help you quickly improve your fitness level.
“In ten weeks, our students make positive, permanent changes to their health, strength, appearance and confidence.”
Farrell’s is different than the traditional health club, gym or fitness center.
Every class is an instructor led group fitness experience. Your coach and teammates are always right there to help you stay motivated and to push you to find your level 10.
Farrell’s® 10-Week Challenge combines exercise through fitness kickboxing and strength training, nutrition, a coach, certified instructors, teammates and a $1000 contest to motivate you to transformation. The Farrell’s team will lead you to a healthy lifestyle, weight loss, increased lean muscle mass and complete body transformation.
COME JOIN ME ON MY JOURNEY!
First session launches in just a couple weeks!
Make it your New Years Resolution, like I did, to live a better, healthier, more fit lifestyle!
Call Jason for more details
319-325-6620
And Mention US!
Farrells Extreme Body Shaping Chicago
World Aids Day – FREE HIV Testing Today
TODAY IS WORLD AIDS DAY.
observed December 1 every year, is dedicated to raising awareness of the pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection.
AIDS
has killed more than 26 million people. and an estimated 35 million
people worldwide live with HIV, making it one of the most destructive
epidemics in recorded history. It is NOT OVER.
Here
in the U.S. about 50,000 people become infected with HIV annually. New
numbers from the CDC indicate that nearly 1 in 5 people (about 240,000)
don’t know they are infected.
Today from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m., staff members from Howard
Brown will offer free HIV testing at the Brown Elephant
(Andersonville), 5404 N. Clark.
Model, actor,
athlete, designer Jack Mackenroth has quickly become the most visible,
out HIV+ advocate and educator in the country… if not the world. With the release of his gorgeous, sexy 2012 calendar,
he is raising both money and awareness for AIDS research, and to
show through his photographs that a person living with HIV can be in top
physical form, healthy and sexy.All proceeds Benefit AMFAR.
His AUTOGRAPHED, high-quality, glossy, limited edition, 15-month calendar has been selling like hotcakes since September.
The calendar begins in January 2012 and continues through May
2013. Each month features a different photographer with a very different
style. $14.95!! Buy a couple. One for you and one for friends! This
is sure to be a sell out!! And every calendar sold helps the fight!
BUY ONLINE NOW
Holiday Stress and Chiropractic Solutions
IT’S STARTING….
Holiday STRESS!
Why do many people feel so much more stress at this time of year? We tend to
blame worsening traffic, crowded malls, and incessant commercials pushing
holiday consumption, and the biggest one – stress and demands from family.
Stress, whether physical or perceived, triggers a fight or flight
response. This is a systemic physical reaction, affecting almost every
part of the body. It can manifest as headaches, increased heart rate and body and back pain.
Chiropractors work primarily with the spine, the root of the nervous
system through which nerve impulses travel from the brain to the rest of
the body. One effect of stress is prolonged muscle tension and
contraction. This muscle tension creates uneven pressures on the bony
structures of the body, often leading the misalignment of the spinal
column.
Chiropractors are trained in nutritional and other therapies for
stress. Several nutritional supplements, including B vitamins, help the
body cope with stress. A Doctor of Chiropractic may also recommend
relaxation techniques, and discuss posture and environmental changes to
help recovery from chronic stress.
A chiropractor cannot make a
job less stressful, or create a quieter, calmer world for the holidays!
What chiropractic
treatment can do is help you develop healthy responses to stress,
reducing potential physical damage.
Chiropractic is based on the concept that given the opportunity, the
mind and body can heal itself. In relieving some of the effects of stress, chiropractic care provides just such an opportunity.
Chiropractic care that will exceed your expectations!
Greater Chicago Chiropractic
conveniently located in Lincoln Park, steps from Clark and Broadway
25 years of experience Dr. Dale Zuehlke 561 W Diversey Pkwy
P: (773)
871-7766
Ambra Salon and European Spa Voted Best in Chicago!
Isn’t 40 the new 30?! Most gay men are vain. Admit it. You know who you are. We are obsessed with body image, good looks and a youthful appearance. Luckily my mother always preached Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize! And I did. Plus I worked in Skin Care for Neiman Marcus for 2 years, so I know there are many products out there that can in fact slow down the hands of time. The attitude that skin care is a feminine pursuit has changed. More and more men are becoming concerned with good grooming and health on appearance. Straight men included. Men need to care for their skin no less than women do. They tend to work under harsher conditions and to get greater exposure to pollution. I have one word for you….PREVENTION. I am not a novice when it comes to facials and skincare. I’ve been diligent in taking care of myself for more than 10 years. I am glad when people comment on how clear, luminous and smooth my complexion is. When it comes to skincare, I don’t go for a bargain. I go for quality. I learned that in this country, bargain and quality almost never coincide. So, for me, when I pay for quality, I am making an investment that is going to translate into great value later on. When I go for a facial, I look for precision in removing all of the junk out of my face in a manner that is clean and gentle. What matters is that my skin remains clear of blemishes, luminous, well hydrated and firm. When I leave my facial, I want to be able to go about my business without being red from inflammation. A few months ago I discovered Ambra Salon and European Spa downtown. 8000 sq. ft. facility with 7 spa treatment rooms, 1 couples treatment room, 14 styling stations, 9 manicure stations, 6 pedicure stations and a spray tan room. “Thirteen years ago I had a special plan in mind—to provide clients with a refuge from stresses of everyday life.” says owner Marie Bartkova, who is originally from Prague. “We opened in 1998 on N. Rush St. with 2 manicure stations, 3 facial rooms, 2 massage rooms and 2 portable pedicure stations. In October 2008, during a tough economy, we were growing and needed to expand to accommodate Ambra’s overwhelming demand. We moved to 1 W. Superior St above Roy’s restaurant. The move allowed us to expand our service menu by incorporating a full hair salon and total spa department.” -Ambra currently offers a full service menu for salon and spa treatments including specialty treatments such as:Different types of Massages, Laser Hair Removal, Hair Extensions, Full Salon Services, Waxing, manicures, pedicures, and Facials. -Designed to naturally improve the condition of the skin and enhance its appearance. Each skin type is treated individually according to personalized needs and desires.Including 24K Gold and Caviar Facials. -Medical cosmetics such as Botox and Juvederm are available. -Ambra carries exclusive product lines such as: Biodroga, Pevonia, Rene Furterer, Prive, Schwarzkopf, Goldwell and Biosculpture. “We provide a full menu of body treatments, hair styling, nail services and basic chiropractic care. Both men and women can opt for single treatments or a daylong pampering session featuring massage, nail care, facial and a catered lunch.” says Marie. Everyone is SO friendly here. The atmosphere is very pleasant, with a very modern decor and it has a nice calm vibe. The space is immaculate, ALL OF THE TIME! Tabatha Coffey would be proud!
40. There!
I said it.
I turned 40, so what?!
“My staff and I are dedicated to bringing you back to balance with our expertise in hair care and spa services. So whether you’re looking for a quick “pick me up” over lunch or a full day of self indulgence, I invite you to experience Ambra Salon & European Spa.”
“There are moments when the mind surrenders to the soul, when time stands still and the body travels into a state of relaxation and well being. In today’s fast-paced world these moments are difficult to discover.”
At Ambra Salon and European Spa, these moments happen every day. Come see why their clients say they are the best in Chicago!
VOTED 5 PINK CROWNS!
Powerful New Music Video “I Will” Released: Emotional Story Line Seeks To Stop The Stigma of HIV
This week the groundbreaking music video “I Will” made its debut at Chicago’s Jackhammer in front of a large crowd and rave reviews. Singer/songwriter Marshall Titus and Photographer/Director John Gress were on hand for a Q & A session with the night’s host Jay Lacey.
The music video was very well received and immediately went viral, having been sent to over 100 bloggers nationwide. It is hoped that the music video will be watched by tens of thousands of people over the next few weeks and start to spur discussions in gay communities throughout the country. Titus and Gress created “I Will” out of a desire to both move and educate the gay community about the tendency to stigmatize those who are HIV positive.
The music video, with the help of a very moving plot and superb acting, tells the powerful story of an African-American charecter who discovers that he is HIV positive. The video follows his initial struggle with the diagnosis and reveals subsequently the growth that happens to him through a process of self-acceptance with the love and support of his friends. The lyrics, “on this walk of faith, I will be strong, I will be brave,” mirrors the inner strength that the protagonist summons within himself to overcome his fear both of the disease and of the rejection oftentimes met with the disclosure of one’s status.
It is hoped that “I Will” will spark discussions about the tendency for gay men, out of fear to separate themselves on the basis of HIV status. This fear and division are causing many people to not get tested.
The result is that the HIV transmission rate continues to climb for gay men and shows no signs of abating. “I Will” strives to inspire gay men to stop dividing the community on the basis of HIV status. Titus and Gress hope that if fewer people live in fear, more people get tested and more people will be treated with dignity and tolerance.
Watch I WILL now on YouTube.
SEPTEMBER 21st! Stop The Stigma: A Day With HIV In America
Positively Aware magazine released a video in order to help publicize the second annual A Day with HIV in America. The national campaign features an online photo essay project focused on destigmatizing and demystifying HIV. Because whether you’re negative or positive, we are all affected by HIV.
On Sept. 21st, grab your digital camera or smartphone. Take a snapshot and capture a moment of your day. Each photo tells a story. So, get in the picture, and tell your story. Photo submissions will be posted on www.ADayWithHIVInAmerica.com. Select pictures will be published in the November+December issue of Positively Aware. Submit your photo by Sept. 26 to artdirector@tpan.com.
BestGayChicago.com
TPAN Positively Aware HIV and AIDS Resource List
In the new issue of Positively Aware Magazine, there was a great 2 page spread, showing all sorts of resources and sites for HIV and AIDS information.
A lot of people don’t know where to start looking, especially if they have just moved here.
So we wanted to be sure to LINK TO THEIR RESOURCE page – in case anyone on here, would like to access it.
Jack Mackenroth Does Super Sexy Calendar for Charity
New Yorker Jack Mackenroth competed in the fourth season of Project Runway. Mackenroth was the first openly HIV-positive contestant in the show’s history. Proceeds Benefiting amfAR — As the first television personality since Pedro Zamora to be vocal about his HIV status, Jack Mackenroth has quickly become the most visible, out HIV+ advocate and educator in the country. . . if not the world. With the release of his 2012 calendar, he hopes to raise both money and awareness for AIDS research, and to show through his photographs that a person living with HIV can be in top physical form, healthy and sexy. All proceeds from the calendar will go to amfAR (Amfar.org) to help find a cure for AIDS. Mackenroth has been living with the disease for 22 years. Designer, athlete and HIV/AIDS activist and educator Jack Mackenroth has had the priveledge of shooting with some of the best photographers in the business. Each month of the 15 month calendar will feature a different photographer with a very different style. Jack is a role model to many people in the HIV community and a fitness model that many aspire to emulate. Photographers taking part in the project include Adam Bouska, Rick Day, Carsten Fleck, Frank Louis, James Franklin, Karl Giant, Tommy Synnamon, Mattheus Lian, Richard Gerst, Ray John Pila, Sonny Tong, Thomas Evans, Krys Fox and Preston Cros. “I have amassed such an amazing collection of images that I wanted to put out a calendar that will help to combat the silence and stigma associated with being HIV-positive,” says Mackenroth. He adds, “If I can raise money for HIV/AIDS research, it’s even better.” Jack has been a vocal and visible advocate of the HIV community, touring the country through numerous speaking engagements and special appearances at events. He continues to speak around the country and will be planning calendar signing events in the upcoming months. His memoir, “Making Lemonaids” will be released this winter. The autographed calendar is available for pre-sale NOW, with shipping starting Sept. 15, 2011. All proceeds benefit amfAR—The American Foundation for AIDS Research. (Amfar.org) The calendar’s dimensions are 8.5 x 11 inches, and are available through (ONLINE NOW) for $14.95 (plus tax and shipping).
This month he launches his 2012 Calendar with 100% of
The American Foundation for AIDS Research
For additional information, please visit Jackmackenroth.com.
Affordable Health Care Insurance and Solutions for Chicago
Post Healthcare Reform ….there maybe more questions and confusion about health insurance than ever before, right?!
Healthcare reform brings several advantages for the consumers and they should consider switching to
the “new” health insurance, rather than staying grandfathered in the old plans.
As a result of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010, individual health insurance is now
enhanced with preventative benefits covered with no waiting periods, not being subject to deductibles
or coinsurance and copays. There is no more lifetime maximum dollar limit that in the past caused people to run out of insurance coverage and few other advantages that benefits the consumers greatly.
However, the cost of health insurance is still on the rise and many people responsible for buying their
own health insurance find that conventional plans with low deductibles are simply too expensive.
Selecting a higher deductible plan provides premium savings and combining it with Health Savings
Account can add tax advantages. Of course, having a little extra protection with Accident Rider gives
more peace in mind, since people usually encounter a huge hospital bill due to an accident. One slip
in the bathroom can be a setback of thousands of dollars that can be easily prevented with having
additional, very affordable accidental coverage.
One of the most important things people should consider, besides getting the new major medical plan,
is getting coverage for critical illness. Sure the great new health insurance will pay the doctors and the
hospital, but who is going to pay you, when you are recovering from a heart attack for three months?
Your health insurance will definitely not cover you mortgage payments, but very inexpensive critical
illness policy can provide you with a check, keeping you afloat, while you recover.
* 50.35% of personal bankruptcies were caused by illness or medical debts
* $13,460 was the average out-of-pocket medical expenses covering co-pays, deductibles and
uncovered health services for bankruptcy filers
Remember, insurance is for catastrophic events that you cannot afford to pay yourself, not to simply
cover your routine costs as generally healthy person. You wouldn’t expect your car insurance to pay for
your oil change, would you?
Let me help you find a plan, that is right for you.
The internet has made shopping for insurance easier. Instead of driving around town to meet with an agent, you can compare rates, benefits, and apply online. Some insurance companies even let you apply right from their website.
Does it still make sense to have an agent help you choose a plan? You bet.
Agents are insurance experts. It’s their job to help you shop plans from leading carriers so you can be confident you’ve found the best rates and benefits for you.
We have access to exclusive, proprietary products at prices you can afford. I have access to benefits through world class companies such as: Aetna , United Healthcare, Humana , Assurant , Blue Cross and Blue Shield , Mutual of Omaha. We have “a plan for everyone” and we will help you get the best coverage and rates possible! CALL Me, LENKA @ 630-748-8434
Preventative Chiropractic Care Can Save You Back and Neck Pains
Back pain affects 80% of Americans at some time in their lives. It comes in many forms, from lower back pain, middle back pain, or upper back pain to low back pain with sciatica. Common back pain causes include nerve and muscular problems, degenerative disc disease, and arthritis. Many people find relief from symptoms of back pain with pain medication or pain killers.
Some will see a Chiropractor. Like I did recently! And Dr. Dale Zuehlke at Greater Chicago Chiropractic gave me an education! After several visits he was able to re-balance my spine through chiropractic adjustments, restoring my movement and proprioception, but I learned that if I keep my body in proper alignment, by way of regular visits, I could avoid pain altogether. You know the saying, An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Now I see him about 4-6 weeks, to keep my body “tuned up”.From its very beginnings, chiropractic has been concerned with improving people’s quality of life by helping strive towards optimum wellness.
Wellness care or preventative care (also written as preventive care) is designed to promote health based on the whole person’s optimal functioning and thereby minimize the future occurrences of impairment or illness.
Preventative chiropractic care or maintenance care is designed to help an already healthy and problem-free patient maintain an optimally healthy state whilst helping to prevent any acute or chronic problem from appearing at all.Most people have experienced back pain sometime in their life. The causes of back pain are numerous; some are self-inflicted due to a lifetime of bad habits. Other back pain causes include accidents, muscle strains, and sports injuries. Although the causes may be different, most often they share the same symptoms. – THE SECRET is to prevent it, with Chriropractic Care!
We highly recommend Greater Chicago Chiropractic
Dr. Dale Zuehlke 561 W Diversey Pkwy, Suite 221
Chicago, IL 60614 P: (773) 871-7766
The Right Side of Forty…Increasing Happiness for Gay Men May 26th
With over two decades of clinical experience working with gay men, Bergeron provides insight into how being gay impacts comfort with aging. All ages of gay men welcome, and for gay men over forty – even decades over forty – this workshop is for you!
Right now is an unprecedented moment in our gay history. Today: we are the first large group of openly gay men to deal with the issues of getting older. How is that possible? The earlier generation, the Stonewall men: were decimated in numbers by AIDS in the 80’s and early 90’s.
“Think about how monumental that makes what we are going through now. I turn forty-nine this year and I cannot even imagine the added security and comfort I would possess with getting older if I saw packs of older gay men in their sixties, seventies and eighties. If they were still around, it does not guarantee I would be inspired by how they were aging. But because there would be so many examples of older gay men: it would assist my decisions building my own list of the do’s and the don’ts with getting older. I am painfully aware that I am forced to figure out my version of success and failure being older without this help.”
“The Right Side of Forty: The Complete Guide to Happiness for Gay Men at Midlife and Beyond is the first book on aging for the gay men of the twenty-first century that are struggling through this watershed moment. With its release in January, my book mobilizes us for taking on our next crucial assignment: helping each other’s aging. There’s a role for you to make a difference, my book is filled with thirteen chapters of options on how to get involved supporting other gay men while increasing your happiness about your own aging.”
This workshop is presented at Center on Halsted 3656 N Halsted, Chicago
Thursday, May 26, 2011 – 7:00 PM – 8:30PM $5 suggested donation
Get a sneak peak online.
Registration required – call Zach Zimmerman, SAGE Special Projects Coordinator, at 773.472.6469 x 437
BestGayChicago.com
Chicago House Residents Say IT GET’S BETTER
Do you ever stop and count your blessings?
Take a moment and think about how lucky you are?
Have a moment of gratitude?
I think many of us, rush through day to day life and forget there are a lot of people out there worse off. Just this past weekend, hundreds of men and women came out for a festive gala brunch, thousands of dollars was raised, and we all get so caught up in the moment and the fun of it all, some of us, sometimes forget what it’s all about, if we don’t see it. We know it’s a good cause, but we sometimes may forget the face, the real people, attached.
At the annual Chicago House brunch this past week, I was personally humbled by Stan Sloan’s speech. And I felt compelled to share it with everyone, in case you missed the event…..
Hi, my name is Stan Sloan, and I’m in my 11th year as the CEO of Chicago House. And I just wanted to start out my talk today by saying, “It gets better.”
It gets better. Hopefully everyone in here is aware of the importance of that phrase from Dan Savage and from the Trevor Project that has done so much great work with for the subject of LGBT youth and LGBT suicide. But last Sunday, Easter Sunday, I promised myself that I was going to work on this talk for today. And without a clue of what I was going to say, I decided to go and spend the day with the residents of our Supportive Living Program.
As many of you know, our Supportive Living Program is one of our five residential facilities for people who have HIV and AIDS and that have no where else to go. The Supportive Living Facility is the first step for our housing. The 16 residents who live there have come to us directly from the streets, from the shelters, from prison or detox centers, or directly from experiences of having been kicked out of the homes of their parents, friends or lovers…most often as a result of revealing that they have HIV.
Spending Easter with the residents of the Supportive Living Program may sound depressing, but nothing could be farther from the truth. If Easter is about springtime and moving from death of winter into the life of summer, then there is no better place to spend Easter than with these 16 men and women who, for perhaps the first time since they were diagnosed with HIV, have hope for moving from the death of their past lives to the life of what’s possible. Hope for moving beyond the perception that their life with HIV meant that there was no new life to follow.
As many of you know, our Supportive Living Program is one of our five residential facilities for people who have HIV and AIDS and that have no where else to go. The Supportive Living Facility is the first step for our housing. The 16 residents who live there have come to us directly from the streets, from the shelters, from prison or detox centers, or directly from experiences of having been kicked out of the homes of their parents, friends or lovers…most often as a result of revealing that they have HIV. Spending Easter with the residents of the Supportive Living Program may sound depressing, but nothing could be farther from the truth. If Easter is about springtime and moving from death of winter into the life of summer, then there is no better place to spend Easter than with these 16 men and women who, for perhaps the first time since they were diagnosed with HIV, have hope for moving from the death of their past lives to the life of what’s possible. Hope for moving beyond the perception that their life with HIV meant that there was no new life to follow.
As many of you know, our Supportive Living Program is one of our five residential facilities for people who have HIV and AIDS and that have no where else to go. The Supportive Living Facility is the first step for our housing. The 16 residents who live there have come to us directly from the streets, from the shelters, from prison or detox centers, or directly from experiences of having been kicked out of the homes of their parents, friends or lovers…most often as a result of revealing that they have HIV. Spending Easter with the residents of the Supportive Living Program may sound depressing, but nothing could be farther from the truth. If Easter is about springtime and moving from death of winter into the life of summer, then there is no better place to spend Easter than with these 16 men and women who, for perhaps the first time since they were diagnosed with HIV, have hope for moving from the death of their past lives to the life of what’s possible. Hope for moving beyond the perception that their life with HIV meant that there was no new life to follow.
So I went to SLP to be with those 16 residents on Easter, only to find out that none of them were there. One of our donors, who shall remain anonymous, had beat me there that day, and had left our staff member with money to take them all out for Easter pizza at Leona’s just down the street on Augusta. So I got back in my car and went to Leona’s to find four tables pushed together with 17 of the most diverse people that you can imagine packed next to each other. The oldest was 72. The youngest was 20. They were black and white and brown. They were men and women. They were gay and straight and transgendered, they were drop outs from Jr. High School and downtown executives who had lost everything to crystal meth and HIV. And they were laughing and eating together like brothers and sisters.
At least until I walked up. Nothing can ruin a party quite like the CEO walking in unannounced. “Listen,” I said as they pulled up a chair for me, “next Sunday I am giving a talk to 400 donors of Chicago House. What do you think I should tell them?” Most of them shrugged their shoulders until one of the women spoke up. “Tell them,” she said, “tell them that it gets better.”
At least until I walked up. Nothing can ruin a party quite like the CEO walking in unannounced. “Listen,” I said as they pulled up a chair for me, “next Sunday I am giving a talk to 400 donors of Chicago House. What do you think I should tell them?” Most of them shrugged their shoulders until one of the women spoke up. “Tell them,” she said, “tell them that it gets better.”
What gets better?
“Living with HIV…” she said. “Tell them that at Chicago House, living with HIV gets better.” “Is that what I should tell them,” I asked the rest of the group, and different people spoke up. A young intern from Sweet Miss Giving’s bakery who is only 21 and who was born with HIV from a crack addicted mother said how she had stopped taking her medication because she thought it was hopeless before arriving at our door. In her short time with us she has gone from a viral load of over 2,000 to being undetectable.
A man spoke up about the death of his partner and of the depression and drug abuse that left him homeless that followed. One of the older men spoke about how he had lived at Chicago House ten years ago and left because he didn’t want to follow the rules. “It took me 10 years,” he said, “but I finally realized that the rules weren’t near as bad as the rest of my life, so I came back and…” “It gets better” the original woman chimed in, and the whole table went up for laughs.
Today Chicago House provides housing and support services to over 1,100 people a year. Over the last 11 years we have worked hard to change the dynamic of that housing and services from a system that helps people get on benefits and supports that will let them live the rest of their lives with HIV in comfort to one that helps them move from those benefits and supports to lives that are fully engaged in the world and independent.
Over 500 people city-wide have been through our Employment Program which is the only program specifically targeting those with HIV and AIDS who are unstably housed in the nation. Our placement rate for the employment program is over 60% even in this economy. Sweet Miss Giving’s Bakery, Unquestionably Kind, Unreasonably Good! has a 100% placement rate for those trained in baking, packaging, customer service, and delivery through its internship.
Our prevention and medication adherence programs are stopping the spread of HIV in the LGBT and other at-risk communities, and they are helping those who are already impacted live long healthy lives. And, of course, our housing programs which serve over 200 adults and 50 kids annually are helping people develop the skills they need to gain stability and eventually independence, so that they can move on to open a space for someone newly infected and in need of hope.
It gets better. For Dan Savage and the Trever project the simple message of “it gets better” only makes sense in the context of encouragement and support. A struggling LGBT kid may not be able to imagine a better life on his or her own, but now he or she doesn’t have to. Now they can simply go to Youtube and find people…from Lady Gaga and Ellen to President Obama…imagining it for the. The clients of Chicago House most often come to us…black and white, men and women, homeless and white collar executives, gay, straight and transgendered…but with one thing in common…they have lost their ability to imagine a hopeful life with HIV, but At Chicago House it gets better. It gets better because Chicago House believe in them, and that is possible because you are here and believe in us.
It gets better. With your help and support it gets better.
Chicago House. We were there at the beginning.
We will be here till the cure.
Chicago House can always use volunteers.
Maybe this is your year to lend a hand?
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Eat Right Get Fit with the Trainers from World Gym Chicago
Many gay men are obsessed with their body image.
American men spend over-
•$4 billion a year on exercise equipment and health club memberships
•$3 billion on grooming aids and fragrances
•$800 million on hair transplants
•$1 BILLION on male cosmetic surgery procedures, procedures such as pectoral implants, chin surgery, and penis enlargement and procedures such as liposuction and rhinoplasty (nose jobs).
A Playgirl centerfold model of 1976 would need to shed 12 lbs of fat and gain 27 lbs of muscle to be a centerfold of today! OK- we get – many of us are obsessed!
But if you have a desire for a great body – what are you doing about it? And do you know what you are doing?
Are you eating sensible and healthy??
I can’t tell you how many guys I see at the gym, spending as much as 2 hours a pop working out – then eating garbage food.
Or my favorite, the guy who is on a treadmill with his coffee in one hand and his cell phone in the other!
You have to eat right. It’s about learning to control caloric intake throughout the year, in addition to working out. It is a lifestyle adaption, and many people don’t follow through or don’t have the knowledge to make the right decisions.
We could write pages and pages of nutritional tips – and that’s what well do in coming months, so this is just the tip of the iceberg. Some of the trainers at World Gym of Chicago on Montrose shared their thoughts and expertise and a few tips.
I like World Gym because of its comfortable atmosphere. The owner says, “World Gym is not a “health club”, but a gym dedicated to the improvement and maintenance of our members’ health and fitness.
Our philosophy is not to enroll hundreds of new members, induced to sign up by an endless string of “special offers”…but to build a strong base of loyal members and work hard to earn that loyalty in continuum. We have found that this philosophy has created an environment where men and women of all ages, from the “just getting started” to the “top athlete,” all exercise in a comfortable, non-frantic atmosphere. We are a result producing, not stress producing, gym.”
So here we go – 5 quick tips and pointers –BASIC RULE #1: Our body weight is determined by the amount of energy that we take in as food and the amount of energy we expend in the activities of our day.
In basic terms, you can not eat more than you expend. OR you must burn more than eat. And you have to make healthy choices when you eat. You can’t consume buckets of sugar and fat and expect to get lean and build muscle.
When it comes to Protein; Drink whey protein 20 minutes before a meal. The Minnesota Applied Research Center in Minneapolis found that the protein consumption caused a much greater loss in body fat than the placebo. The whey protein maintains blood sugar levels, which decreases appetite. And, the protein provides the building blocks your body needs to recover from your exercise program.
You can have TOO MUCH protein. The next time you urinate, take a gander into the toilet bowl. I’m serious.
Now tell me if your urine is bubbly and has a frothy consistency. Like beer.
If you’ve been supplementing your diet with protein in line with a bodybuilding routine, I’m going to bet you that chances are, you have bubbly urine. Now what does bubbly urine imply? proteinuria.
Proteinuria is a medical condition whereby too much protein is ingested for the body to utilize. The kidneys then work overtime to filter out this excess protein, and out it goes through your urine. Excess protein = bubbly urine.
2. Go nutty for nuts. Nuts are high in calories and fat – so it might seem strange that they’re a great weight release food. But they are. Researchers from Purdue University found that nuts are high in nutrients and antioxidants, that they help prevent degenerative diseases and that they are linked to reduced body fat. Nuts prevent hunger (consume a handful before going out to eat!), and they take a long time – and lots of energy – to digest. This research is providing new support for the caveman diet – which holds that we should eat nuts, berries, vegetables, lean meats, etc. – just like our ancestors.
3. Green tea is a fat loss miracle. Research from Maastricht University in Holland is making me a green tea believer. Green tea promotes weight release, weight maintenance, improved blood sugar regulation and even decreases abdominal fat! Of course, green tea doesn’t do it alone – you need to combine it with a comprehensive exercise and nutrition program.
4. SUGAR. Eat foods that are low on the gylcemic index. The glycemic index measures how fast certain foods increase blood sugars. Foods like white bread are very high on the index, and foods like whole grains are ranked much lower. Those foods that are high on the index seem to trigger fat storage – though researchers aren’t quite sure why. Here’s a list of how some of the most common foods rank .
5. SLEEP. Poor sleep = increased abdominal fat. Researchers from Wake Forest embarked on a multi-year study and found that too little – or too much – sleep led to increased risk of obesity and abdominal fat. 6 – 7 hours a night was found to be ideal.
THANKS to the trainers at
World Gym of Chicago !
With 7 locations!
Some recommended reads:
World Gym Uptown – Ranked Best Gym in North Chicago
New Year’s Resolution….
lose weight and/or
get body in better shape!
Ok, it’s February.
What have you done about it?
There is no excuse. If you don’t belong to gym or are considering changing gyms, NOW IS THE TIME.
This is the BEST promotion for fitness you will find in Chicago!
Wednesday February 9th.
Fitness Party Promotion @ World Gym in Uptown
909 W. Montrose 773-348-1212
5am – 11pm (so don’t say you have to work, and can’t make it!)
World Gym is not a health club, but a gym dedicated to the improvement and maintenance of our members’ health and fitness.
“Our philosophy is not to enroll hundreds of new members, induced to sign up by an endless string of “special offers”…but to build a strong base of loyal members and work hard to earn that loyalty in continuum,” says Al, who opened this gym in 1992, but has been in the business a LIFETIME!
“We have found that this philosophy has created an environment where men and women of all ages, from the “just getting started” to the “top athlete,” all exercise in a comfortable, non-frantic atmosphere. We are a result producing, not stress producing, gym.”
World Gym has been voted one of the BEST GYMS IN CHICAGO! and THE BEST GYM IN NORTH CHICAGO. I have been a member at World Gym for about 8 years now. I can honestly say, it is super clean and constantly updated with the newest equipment and free classes that are always changing and evolving.
On Wednesday February 9th, ALL DAY, World Gym is offering unbeatable promotions!
* 50% OFF on new enrollments, if you mention this article
* 50% OFF memberships, if you mention this article
* Complimentary food, cocktails, and nutritional supplements
So if you have been thinking about a new gym or maybe you just moved here, WORLD GYM has the best facilities, the best prices, and the best perks in Chicago!
Make sure you tell them we sent you!
And watch for FITNESS TIPS coming soon from the trainers of World Gym !
Best Gay Chicago.com
Older Adults – Gay and LGBT Seniors and Aging Research Being Done in Chicago
Face it!
Have you thought about it?
While many older adults suffer from health issues stemming from stigma, isolation and unequal treatment, aging dilemmas for gay men are even compounded by other than just medical issues.
Citing a 2009 study, a report noted that lesbian couples’ Social Security benefits are typically 31.5 percent smaller and gay couples’ benefits are 17.8 percent smaller than are those of heterosexual couples.
Family members provide about 80 percent of long-term care in the United States, but that’s not the case with LGBT elders, since they are more likely to be single, childless and estranged from their biological families, said the report.
That’s just the beginning of the cycle of discrimination. The stunning report cited “official policies, laws and institutional regulations” that offer same-sex partners few of the resources afforded to spouses and biological family members.
ARE YOU 50 or OLDER?
Center on Halsted and AIDS Community Research Initiative of America (ACRIA ) are doing a survey to collect data on the health and psychosocial needs of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender older adults who live in Chicago. This is only the 2nd survey of its kind to ever be done and the first in the Midwest.
Participants must be age 50 and over and identify as LGBT. The survey takes 45 minutes to complete and the participant will receive a $25.00 debit card as a “Thank you”. All information is anonymous and confidential.
THEY NEED PEOPLE NOW! The survey deadline is January 28th. PLEASE, if you are over 50, call for an appointment. It would be a HUGE HELP for the COH.
Researchers suggests LGBT older adults are more likely to rely on friends and family of choice than on more traditional caregivers such as family members and children. As the family of choice network ages, there may be more of a reliance on formal support systems that may not be prepare to meet LGBT needs.
For those interested in taking the survey, please contact Betty at 1(773)472-6469 ext 448 or bakins@centeronhalsted.org to set up an appointment.
Best Gay Chicago.com
