Raising awareness through storytelling

A new storytelling program by the North Idaho Aids Coalition is raising awareness and hope for people over 50 years old with HIV and AIDS. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 51% of Americans with HIV are over 50 years old. Though numbers are declining, 18% of new HIV diagnoses are within the same age group. 

NIAC is a nonprofit organization that provides programs and services for people living with HIV/AIDS in Idaho Health Districts 1 and 2. 

National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day on Saturday calls attention to the health, social and aging-related challenges of people living with HIV. 

"With advanced treatment options, HIV positive individuals are living longer lives," NIAC Executive Director Theresa Davis said in a statement. "However, the interactions between aging and degeneration caused by HIV have become a public health concern that needs to generate appropriate awareness and education."

NIAC hopes to build an LGBTQ+ friendly storytelling video library about HIV/AIDS and harm reduction through an upcoming fundraiser. 

"This year, NIAC is deeply embedding storytelling into our culture," Davis said. "Our goal is to be able to raise awareness around HIV/AIDS, Stigma, Harm Reduction and Addiction by utilizing storytelling."

The fundraiser features a "self-care" basket with donated items from Rock 94.5, Mountain madness Soap Co., CDA Coffee Co., Evans Brothers Coffee, Jeremiah Johnson Brewing and Izzy's Comfort Kitchen. 

A film currently at NIAC is "Before You Know It" by filmmaker PJ Raval. The video depicts the three years Raval spent documenting the lives of Americans over the age of 55 who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. 

"Just come over, and we will get you set up to view a film," Davis said. "We welcome the opportunity to listen to your inspirational, hopeful and survival stories and for you to share in ours."

Today, NIAC will also provide walk-in testing for older adults from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  

Info: www.northidahoaidscoalition.org, 208-665-1448