Category Archives: Wellness

  FREE, Health, HIV, Wellness

HIV Cure Research – Community Forum April 23rd

stoping-aids-curing-aids

 

Learn about exciting scientific advances to bring about a cure for HIV disease, featuring Timothy Brown, a.k.a. “the Berlin Patient,” who once had HIV. Recovered from a deadly form of leukemia and now virus-free because of a difficult bone marrow transplant, Brown embodies the hopes of scientists and millions of people living with the virus. Brown’s road to a cure is unlikely to be traveled by many others, except perhaps some who also have both HIV and cancer. But his journey provides critical proof of a concept that just may help lead to the end of AIDS-by offering clues for how to develop a safe, affordable cure for all. He also offers inspiration and hope for the road ahead. The evening will also include information about Chicago’s efforts on the HIV cure research agenda, and time for Q and A.

Wednesday April 23, 6:00 – 8:00pm
Chicago Cultural Center
Cassidy Auditorium
78 E. Washington Street
Chicago, IL 60602

Free and open to the public – registration required by Tuesday, April 22.

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  Benefits, Boystown, Health, Wellness

Shave your Head at Chicago’s VANITE Salon March 30th

vanite-chicago-benefit

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  Benefits, Boystown, Health, Special Events, Wellness

St Baldricks Benefit at Scarlet bar March 27

st baldrics benefit chicago

Vanite’ Paul Mitchell Focus Salon is hosting a benefit at Scarlet on   MARCH  27th, from 7-9PM. Kettle One & Nolet’s Gin will be providing cocktails for 2HRS & My Fit Foods will be providing “Cancer fighting foods” for the event.

This is a fundraiser for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation—proceeds to benefit cancer research, development and services for children in Chicago.

 

Tickets are $30 per person  – – Tickets are available here

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  Guest Author, Wellness

Meet Robert Kingett – Our New Columnist Sharing His Thoughts on being Blind – and Gay – And Dating

Do you ever stop and think about those who are less fortunate than us?  Those who have a harder life than us?  Those who face daily challenges in life? Do you ever give gratitude and thanks for the life you are living?

Meet Robert Kingett: Watching Robert walk into his local college with his red and white cane isn’t amazing.
What is amazing, however, is listening to the story of struggle to success that he so captivatingly tells as a motivational speaker.
Today he is an honors student at The City College of Chicago getting his general transfer degree. He has been on the Deans’ list ever since his first semester ended. He’s always on the honor roll. In his spare time he’s just like any other young adult. Frequent nights at the movies with his friends, an arcade game or two at the local mall, a nice fun trip to the coffee shop where his friends embrace life along with him, or a solitary quiet trip to the library or the bookstore are just a few of the activities that he does amongst his hard work.
Even with the plethora of activities he likes to frequent the bookstore the most.
“I’ve always been a veracious reader… book worm… my audio book count is way higher than my body fat,” he said laughing.
He’s not just a hard worker in college. He’s a hard worker in the literary market. He’s a writer, having published many reviews, literary essays, poems, and accessibility related articles for a wide range of media both print and online. He’s a regular editor for Americascomedy.Com while also maintaining a third hobby of motivationally speaking.
He tells his story at personal bookings that he schedules himself throughout many venues. He tries to speak at schools the most if he can.
Kingett hopes to bring some of the troubles that abused kids endure, and ways to overcome and shine. “I want to inspire others to do way more than I have accomplished!”
Every story has a once upon a time. With the exception of his premature birth, the first six years of Kingett’s life were his most tranquil. Weighing a mere 6 ounces, a hospital error would lead to his disabilities on September 9, 1989.
“They placed me in an incubator because my lungs weren’t developing adequately and they were not monitoring the oxygen level,” he said. “It was too much so it caused me to have cerebral palsy and blindness.”
While his mother visited occasionally, his maternal grandparents raised him in St. Augustine Florida
Even though his grandmother had Alzheimer’s and dementia, he said, “I lived a spoiled life.”
Shortly before his eighth birthday, his grandmother had a stroke and had to go into a nursing home. Shortly after, his grandfather died from cirrhosis of the liver.
He had no idea what he was in store for when he first moved in with his mother and younger half sister and brother.
“I realized it pretty quickly after the first argument between her and her husband that this was not going to be a good situation,” he said. “They were both intoxicated and they got physical and verbal.”
Afterward, she would come into his room.
“She didn’t know how to let that anger go and so she’d turn it on me and my sister,” he said.
Kingett said his mother’s words varied but they often reflected what he believes she really wanted to say to her boyfriends and ex-husband.
If he or his sister ever talked back, she would then get physical he said, slapping them multiple times, and calling them pitiless names. Cries and complaints were not heard as the mother’s intoxication took over.
Sometimes he would hit back, but he said that only made her hit harder.
While the physical abuse happened only about four times a week, the verbal abuse was constant he said, attributing much of it to his mother’s constant alcohol abuse.
Kingett never called the police about the abuse. Even when the police came due to his mother’s domestic violence situations, he would lie to keep her out of jail.
“To me it was normal,” he said. “I was trying to protect the roof I had over my head. Facing the expected was a lot better alternative than going into an unknown foster system.”
Kingett said he feared what life would be like if he was removed from the home by the government. Numerous times, DCF, Department of children and families would have to investigate a suspicious complaint about Kingett or his siblings.
A smart kid, Kingett would ace tests at the Florida School for the Deaf and Blind but he consistently neglected homework.
It was during a meeting with the principal at age 14 when he had his first life changing epiphany.
“I came to the conclusion that if I stayed here, I’m not going to be successful at all,” he said.
At age 16, he began researching how to get his social security disability checks signed over to his name instead of his mother’s. The plan was to take the $625 a month and move out. The research wasn’t easy, as he was also trying not to flunk his classes while the neglect and abuse was still taking place at the home. Eventually, the research was replaced by diligent schoolwork until a year later.
At 17, he called the social security office and was told the only way the money could be signed over to him was to attend a hearing.
“I froze when I was told that because I knew that my mom had to be in on the knowhow,” he said. “I tried to keep it a secret from mom as long as I could but she could see the mail coming in and I could not. When she saw that hearing notice, she became extremely angry because that was I taking her money away. She said, ‘How could I do such a thing. Your sister and I live off that money. That’s how you are able to have a roof over your head.’”
The day of the meeting was a mere week from his 18th birthday.
Kingett said his mother tried to make him look incompetent, telling the social worker that he didn’t know how to clean his own room much less tie his own shoes.
The social worker sided with Kingett, but there was one big problem.
“I couldn’t cash any of it,” he said.
Kingett did not have a bank account, a state id, or even access to his birth certificate.
Once he got home, the violence escalated.
“She hit me so much it knocked me out and into consciousness,” he said. “I had to leave because I didn’t know what was going to happen to me if I stayed there. I grabbed my cane and backpack, threw old dirty clothes in it, and walked out the front door.
Kingett left his home and soon stayed with a family friend, Kevin, until he moved in with a woman named Debra. Knowing Robert had nowhere to go; she offered him a place to stay. Kingett stayed there until his high school graduation.
He graduated in June of 2010.
Graduating high school was only half the battle. Kingett’s plans were to attend a college and pursue his long awaited dream of getting a degree in journalism or English. He needed a way to pay for school, and that’s when the scholarship hunt began.
“I had a really hard time meeting the requirements of a scholarship, any, for that matter.” He said. “My high school grades were not good due to my negligence of school work despite my intelligence, so I had a low grade point average.”
Kingett would apply to many scholarships only to be denied.”
Determined to find a place where he could be independent he scoped the internet hunting for a place to live.
“I admit I can’t cook. I can definitely eat though.” he said laughing. “I needed a place that wasn’t a nursing home, per say, but just a fractional inch more assistance I could use. I have cerebral palsy and there are just some things that I simply need help with.”
After months of looking he found Freedman Place. Friedman Place is a non-profit Supportive Living Community for blind and visually impaired adults in Chicago. Their building has been designed with the needs of the blind and visually impaired in mind. Each resident has a private studio or one-bedroom apartment, with a kitchenette and bathroom. A full range of services and activities is provided so that residents’ days are healthy, dignified, and stimulating
“I needed a place to stay. This place sounded wonderful! That way, flux would be minimal. No more would I ever have to rely on friends.”
Since Kingett has stayed at this helpful place, he can finally let the past go and have a little fun at last.
“It’s not about the horrors I’ve gone through it’s about me overcoming so many things,” he said, attributing his sense of humor to his positive outlook.
His reward comes in the form of emails and postings on his website from students who say their lives were changed by his tale.
“I can’t tell you how awesome it was that I could make someone happier,” he said.
But now that Kingett has secured his present, what is his future dream? “I dream that one day I could be standing in a bookstore at a book signing of my own and knowing in my mind that I have improved so many lives.”
Follow His LGBT Dating Column at our  BEST GAY NEWS site

RobertKingett.com
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  HIV, News and Happenings, Uptown, Wellness

TPAN Moves Offices to 5050 N. Broadway in Uptown Chicago

Test Positive Aware Network, (TPAN),  moved from its offices  in Edgewater Beach over the weekend  to an office building at 5050 N.
Broadway, in the Uptown neighborhood. It will reopen at the new location
on Oct. 1, with all groups and services running normally by Oct. 7.
The social services agency  will take over the third floor of the former headquarters of
Combined Insurance—presently a division of AON.
It’s a bigger space and new space and will accommodate more people. If you are going in for services next week, it is recommended you call
in advance to make sure your group or appointment is still scheduled to
meet.  (773) 989-9400   TPAN
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  Benefits, Boystown, HIV AIDS LEGAL COUNCIL, News and Happenings, Non-Profits, Wellness

AIDS Legal Council of Chicago Summer Benefit, Lost in Space August 14 at Sidetrack

AIDS Legal Council of Chicago (ALCC) is proud to announce its annual summer benefit, set for Wednesday, August 14th from 6 to 9pm at Sidetrack in Chicago. Building on a history of other-worldly themes, this year’s benefit is Lost in Space.

Lost in Space will
offer attendees a chance to explore the galaxies through amazing
cocktails, food, and prizes, plus a spectacular silent auction with more
than 150 items from businesses from across Chicagoland. Raffle prizes
include round-trip tickets to South America courtesy of Orbitz, hotel
stays courtesy of Kimpton Hotels, and neighborhood packages from around
the city. As ALCC continues to commemorate 25 years of service, this
event will be its biggest and best benefit yet.

Tickets, which include cocktails, food, and entertainment, are just $50 and can be purchased at www.lostinspace2013.eventbrite.com or by calling 312-427-8990.

Founded
twenty-five years ago, ALCC uses the power of the law to provide to
provide health, dignity, and stability for people with HIV and their
families. The Council provides free direct legal services to people in
need, educates the public about HIV-related legal issues, and advocates
for social policies that ensure fair treatment for all people affected
by HIV.

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  Alternative, Andersonville, Boystown, Movers and Shakers, Retail and Services, Wellness

Pamper Yourself with Great Personal Services in Boystown

In the last few months, some new personal service businesses
have popped up in Boystown, joining the ranks of long time style makers like
Tim Weber  of Restorations Salons .

We have been a fan of Tims Restoration salon since it’s
first opening in 1993, in Lincoln Park. (2151 N. Sheffield)  Tim steadily grew his business and
later opened 2 more locations, one in Andersonville (5349 N. Clark) and the newest spot in
Lakeview (3255 N. NBroadway).

What makes 
restoration different? or special? “Restoration Salons’ pride themselves on having experienced
professional stylists, a comfortable relaxed atmosphere, and the focus is on
hair and our goal is to restore,” says Tim.

 Do guys in Chicago follow the trends?  or do their own thing, when it comes to
hairstyles?

 “Trends can be tricky, by the time some of them catch on, its
time to move on… Some heads can pull off trends and some should never try
them… I usually try to make the client look there best; whether it is a trend
or timeless!”

How to choose a good salon or stylist?

“I  always say that a client needs to find 3 things: A salon that they like (the atmosphere,location,style) a stylist that they love (enjoy talking too, and happy to see them) and a stylist that can achieve a great cut/color. If you can find all three you will be happy for a long long time! Our staff is always ready with a friendly smile. We ensure you a great service and a high quality experience, that will leave you feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and restored!”

The new girl on the block is Kinley Preston, owner of the new VANITE’  Paul Mitchell Focus Salon at  3161 N. Halsted. There are only 5 Focus Salons in the entire Chicagoland area and this is the 3rd such salon, in the city. 

So what is a “focus salon”? Kinley explained, “We carry the entire Paul Mitchell product line, including the pet products. The staff is Paul Mitchell trained and educated. 

We are happy to be a flourishing Local
Independent Business and active
in giving to our community. 
As a “Paul Mitchell Focus
Salon” we have the opportunity
to receive advanced training
from Premier National Award
Winning Stylists several times
each year. We are committed to
keeping up to date and pleased
to deliver these techniques with
the latest ideas to you! 
Cut and Coloring is our
specialty. We don’t settle for
average and neither should you! 
We offer you more than just a
cut.. get an experience! We think we offer a better quality service for the same price as some of our competitors.“

Kinley’s new salon is sleek and elegant. I was pampered with a shampoo and cut recently. The comfort experience begins with the chairs and shampoo bowls. Both from Japan. Both providing comfort and allowing the guest to fully relax and enjoy the 5 minute scalp massage in the dimly lit, LED glowing room!

Kinley herself was a graduate of the Paul Mitchell School but chose to be an owner and manager, instead of a stylist.  A great side story –  FYI – John Paul Jones DeJoria, the mastermind behind Paul Mitchell, was born the second son of an Italian immigrant father and a Greek immigrant mother in Los Angeles. His parents divorced by the time he was two years old, and at nine he began selling Christmas cards and newspapers with his older brother to support his family. When his single mother proved unable to support both children, they were sent to an East Los Angeles foster home.

DeJoria spent much of his youth in a street gang in East Los Angeles, but changed when he was told that he would “never succeed at anything in life” by a math teacher at John Marshall High School. He graduated in 1962 and spent two years in the United States Navy, after which he floated through a series of jobs ranging from janitor to insurance salesman.

DeJoria entered the world of hair care as an employee of Redken Laboratories. He was fired from this position and in 1980, he formed John Paul Mitchell Systems with hairdresser Paul Mitchell and a loan for $700. In 1989, Paul Mitchell died and was replaced by his son, Angus as company co-owner. As of 2011, John Paul Mitchell Systems had revenues of $900 million annually.

So DeJoria understands personal struggles and hurdles. And he in fact, played a key role in Kinley’s life and was instrumental helping making her salon, a reality. “Three years ago, I was destitute. Living in my car. He really took a personal interest in my story, at a time when I was going through a lot. I wrote a business plan, and the company loved it.”

Now Kinleys salon is a reality and she is very involved with the community and sits on various boards from the local Chamber of Commerce to the Joffrey Ballet Auxiliary board.

The world is all about pure, natural  and organic these days. People are willing to pay a little more, for better products and services. 

There has been a global shift taking place in the food, water and health sectors, as we face consequences of environmental damage due to pollution, global warming, agricultural trends and pesticide usage. 

Enter Vincent Dinh of Savon Spa. (3635 North Halsted Street) “Growing up in Vietnam, everything we ate was organic.” explains Vincent. “There were no chemicals used. Poop was used to fertilize! With that experience growing up and then moving to America, it was like culture shock. OMG, the cucumbers are so big here! And no taste. My food was growing up was small, beqautiful and SO MUCH TASTE.“

At Savon Spa, Amy, Vincent and their staff strive to give clients a luxurious, purifying organic spa experience in an elegant setting reminiscent of old world Paris. In fact,  much of the furniture inside the spa is eco-friendly reclaimed and/or refurbished.

Indulgent, Earth-friendly, organic products, hand-made organic soaps, scrubs, masks, lotions and treatments.  In atmosphere of serenity, warmth, and beauty, Savon Spa offers a soothing array of services. From  various massages (60 minute deep tissue $110), advanced facials (24k gold mask or placenta treatment $200), body treatments (Hungarian mud wraps $80), manicure, pedicure, waxing for men and women and non-surgical skin rejuvenation services by cutting-edge aestheticism Dr. Randa Sawan. “We offer a great no lift, non-yellowing nail treatment. There is no chemicals and no odor. And it’s stronger than acrylic or gel nails,” explained Vincent.

Every experience can be customized to the guests’ desires to provide the perfect escape from the city, whether it’s for a quick massage or an entire day devoted to absolute bliss. 

Savon Spa even offers “Beauty on the Go”, a mobile spa, designed to pamper you at home, in the office, or wherever your travels lead you.

Savon Spa is committed to giving you a perfect, joyful spa day every time you come in. “I have always had expensive taste.  And when I was a computer consultant I was able to travel the world a lot and stay at 5 star hotels and spas. Our goal here is offer a high end experience and make it more affordable. You’ll leave Savon Spa with brighter, softer skin and a brighter, softer soul.”

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  Boystown, Deals, News and Happenings, Wellness

Chicago’s New Savon Spa Promises a Unique Organic Spa Experience

Savon Spa announces the grand opening of its luxury day spa in
the Lakeview area of Chicago. Savon is a five star luxury day spa offering a unique organic product portfolio and holistic concept in line with the traditional Eastern spa experience.

“The concept behind Savon Spa is to bring truly unique, high end services to Chicago and offer those services at an affordable rate,” said Savon Spa owner, Vince Dinh. “From head to toe, Savon Spa will spoil clients with experiences and services that are good for the body, soul and environment.”

Savon Spa offers indulgent, organic products and treatments in an atmosphere of warmth and serenity. The Spa stands by a commitment to caring for the Earth by offering only the purist of
organic products. Some of the Spa’s more unique services offered include:

The Manicure/Pedicure Vegan Deluxe Spa: A chemical-free service- using organic
scrubs, masks, lotion and essential oils from the Eminence Organic skin care line.
The Placenta Treatment: Hollywood’s best kept secret to beautiful skin. A complete
natural source that is high in protein, vitamin and minerals with concentrations of the
amino acid glycine.

The Cleopatra 24K Gold Mask: This unique treatment not only rejuvenates the skin
but also accelerates cell renewal, reverses oxidation damage, evens out skin tone and
assists lymphatic drainage.

Diamond Microdermabrasion: A crystal-free, diamond tip 1-hour treatment removes
dead skin cells, promotes blood circulation, invigorates collagen and elastin production
for a more youthful appearance, removes unhealthy toxins and leaves the face with a
gorgeous polish.

Out of the ordinary massage services with oriental techniques such as Ayurveda, Tui
Na, Shiatsu, Bamboo and Hot Lava Shell.  And many more…

In celebration of its Grand Opening, Savon Spa is offering 20 percent off all services throughout
the month of July until August 5, 2012.

Savon Spa is located at 3635 N. Halstead Street (across from Center on Halsted and Whole Foods)
For more information text Savon to 21777.

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  Deals, Fitness, News and Happenings, Wellness

Farrells eXtreme Bodyshaping Chicago Spring Session

Our friends over at Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping just uploaded a couple videos!
So for those of you wanting to know what it’s all about,  here you go!

Video  #1       and  Video/Testimonials

They had a promotion on GILT last week  for the upcoming 7:30pm classes……and it is a great deal!
I am told there are still a still a few spots left. MENTION THIS SITE.
CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION: (312) 624-9794

This 10 week class will set your metabolism on fire! And melt inches off your body.

FXB on Facebook

JOIN    FXB

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  Deals, Fitness, Wellness

Farrells Chicago, A New Way To Work Out That Body

OK, I know you have a gym membership. 

How long have you been going?

Are you stuck in rut, doing the same routine?

Have you hit a plateau?

Maybe it’s time shake your body up!

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.

We are in Week 7, and both have seen great results, and plan to continue on with the program this Spring. We have both seen our body fat drop and our muscle mass grow. But everyone has different goals.

OPEN REGISTRATION IS STARTING NOW for the next Session which Begins in April

Farrell’s eXtreme Bodyshaping is a results based fitness program for
participants of any age, lifestyle, sex or athletic ability. The program
was developed by Lance Farrell — a long-time taekwondo competitor and
teacher — specifically to combat obesity and to help people develop
healthy lifestyle habits by incorporating the fat-burning, strengthening
and endurance building aspects of competitive martial arts training
into a course for regular people who aren’t interested in sparring or
contact drills.

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.

The local owner and instructor Jason does an awesome job. He first went through the Farrell’s program in Iowa. Went on to become an instructor, then moved to Chicago last year to open this location.

The Farrell’s program combines four essential elements needed to make eXtreme changes in your bodyshape:

“Our mission is simple: We want to inspire you to live your life with power and purpose.


We are in business to help our members transform their lives —we have
helped over 30,000 people (and counting!), and we are ready to help you
too!“

FARRELL’S eXtreme Body Shaping


If you show up to class and follow the plan, YOU WILL SEE RESULTS!
Guaranteed – or your money back.

Don’t miss the next session of classes – and get a banging beach body NOW!

Farrell’s eXtreme Body Shaping
821 W. Blackhawk        Off Halsted,     S. of North Ave.

 312-624-9794
JOIN FXB.com

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  Recommended, Retail and Services, Wellness

Thinning Hair …and Rene Furterer Treatment at Ambra Spa in Chicago

I was getting my hair cut a few weeks ago and my stylist, who has cut my hair for a couple years, mentioned how thin my hair was getting on top. I guess I hadn’t noticed. I am 6’3″  and don’t really see the top of my head in the mirror.

So I called Ambra Salon and Spa – where I had went  last year for an amazing facial  and the BEST eyebrow shaping in Chicago (by Didi Ayala) I have ever had!

Back to my hair. I knew they had a great salon and wonderful European skin and hair products. So I called and talked with Vicki, a specialist who was trained in Paris under the guidance of the Rene Furterer company.  She booked me an appointment to come in.

“It’s never too late to start treating your hair,” she explained. “In France, they have young children, boys and girls start treating their hair at about 8-9 years old! But as long as you have some hair, you can definitely slow down the loss process and possibly still stimulate new growth.”

She analyzed my hair then proceeded to give me a scalp massage and treatment using this amazing  Complexe 5, made for thinning hair. The Furterer company  use a lot of plant extracts and essential oils. These  help stimulate hair growth.  It smells and feels amazing! Then I sat under heat for about 10 minutes, and was washed out using Furterer’s  Forticea Stimulating Shampoo. More essential oils and plant peptides to help restore hair.

Treatments can be done at home. Of course, it’s not quite the same.  But  I purchased both the the Complexe 5 oil and Forticea Shampoo- and have been doing the process about once a week.  My hair feels  amazing afterwords! I have only been using it about 3 weeks- so it is too early to see results. But I am confident – the Furterer company has been around for 50 years. They are known all over Europe for their hair and scalp products. (*sidenote- when my  75 year old Mother was in town for the holidays, I got her hooked on the products and purchased at set also from Ambra.)

Ambra Salon and European Spa has several great product lines from Europe that are hard to find here in Chicago.  It’s a cosmetic shoppers paradise!  Next on my list to try is Biodroga skin care. From Baden-Baden, Germany, Biodroga has been around since the 1950’s. They have everything from repair formulas to fix skin, to anti time formulas to slow down the aging process. They have a complete line for men and everything is made in Baden-Baden, known for their amazing thermal baths.

A trip to Ambra Salon and European Spa  downtown is a MUST!
One West Superior, Second Floor      312.337.5055

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  Alternative, Health, Retail and Services, Wellness

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!

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  Deals, Health, Wellness

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

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  Health, Wellness

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

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  Health, Recommended, Retail and Services, Wellness

Ambra Salon and European Spa Voted Best in Chicago!


 


40.  There!  

I said it.
 I turned  40, so what?!

 


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.

“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.”


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!


 
“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!


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  Health, Wellness

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



 

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  Health, Recommended, Wellness

Preventative Chiropractic Care Can Save You Back and Neck Pains

No matter what causes back pain, the fact is it HURTS! Back aches are the number 2 cause of all doctors’ visits. Headaches are number 1. And sometimes the two go together! 


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

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  Center on Halsted, Community, Lesbian, News and Happenings, Special Events, Wellness

H.E.R. Day (Health, Recreation, Education) LGBTQA Women June 11

H.E.R. Day (Health, Recreation, Education)
is a day-long symposium of exciting programs and workshops for LGBTQA women. 

Facilitators from Howard Brown Health Center, the Chicago Women’s Health Center, Northwestern University’s Department of Psychology, and other organizations will lead health seminars, a cooking class, and recreation classes like self-defense, yoga, and salsa throughout the day.

Keynote speech will be given by Jessica Halem, comedian, activist, and former  Executive Director of the Lesbian Community Cancer (now Care) Project. Jessica will also close the event with a special performance of her one-woman-show, “Bad Feminist” in the Hoover-Leppen Theater at 7pm.
 
$15 admission to H.E.R. Day (including the “Bad Feminist show) or $20 tickets to “Bad Feminist” at 7pm.


Seminars and workshops include:

“What I Learned from Cancer,” Jessica Halem
Sex Ed 101 for L/B/T/Q Women, presented by the Chicago Women’s Health Center

Women, the Media, and Beauty Ideals, presented by Renee Engeln-Maddox, Ph.D. and senior lecturer at Northwestern University

Healthy Cooking Class and Demonstration, presented by Chef Toni Rivera

Tickle Your Fancy: Female Sexuality, Orgasm & What Toys Can Do for You! Presented by Searah Deysach from Early to Bed

Transgender Health, presented by Lois Bates from Howard Brown

Intersex People: What you Should Know and Why You Should Care! Presented by Dr. Veronica Drantz and intersex spokespersons Alex and Mugsie

Salsa dance, instructed by Heidi Landgraf, She-She Salsa Instructor at Edge Gallery

Self Defense, instructed by Matt Cowell of Cowell Martial Arts

Yoga, instructed by Kerri Noto of Tejas Yoga

In Vitro Fertilization for LGBT couples, presented by Colleen Wagner Coughlin, Laboratory Director and Embryologist of aParentIVF

Saturday, June 11, 10AM – 4PM
$15 admission to H.E.R. Day (including the “Bad Feminist show)
or $20 tickets to “Bad Feminist” at 7pm.

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  Boystown, Center on Halsted, Health, News and Happenings, Wellness

The Right Side of Forty…Increasing Happiness for Gay Men May 26th

New York-based psychotherapist, Bob Bergeron, LCSW, leads a 90-minute workshop on aging for gay men, at the Center on Halsted. 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
 

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  Benefits, Event Photos, Health, HIV, News and Happenings, Non-Profits, Special Events, Wellness

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?

CHECK OUT ALL OF THE GREAT EVENT PHOTOS AND
 FASHION MODELS ON OUR FACEBOOK PAGE and  LIKE US!


BestGayChicago.com


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