A Call to Remove the Stigma around HIV AIDS

I can still recall the day, July 25, 1985, when American actor Rock Hudson announced that he was suffering from Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, also known as AIDS. Although the actor’s name meant nothing to me at the time, my mother’s reaction still lingers in my memory. There was disbelief and disappointment in her voice as she yammered on to her sister about how this handsome man could have AIDS. It was summer in a rural community, and information about AIDS was scarce, so I was left to learn about this new health “monster” from my friends and the rumor mill. continue reading →

Five Out-of-the-Box Mother’s Day Ideas

Mother’s Day is just around the corner—are you ready? If not, don’t panic. There are plenty of ways to celebrate Mom. Brunch is nice and flowers are sweet, but why not shake it up this year? This Mother’s Day, give her an experience she’ll remember. Whether she loves to pamper herself at the spa or would rather lace up her hiking boots and get outside, the Capital Region, Hudson Valley, and North Country offer exactly what Mom wants.

continue reading →

Putting Herself First

One Mom’s Commitment to Better Health

Since 2010, I’ve been a proud team coach of Arterial Motives for the American Heart Association’s Capital Region Heart Walk & Run. I walk alongside my family and friends in memory of my dad and grandfather, as well as in honor of several loved ones who have overcome heart disease. I walk with my uncle who received a new heart two years ago. continue reading →