Showing posts with label Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate. Show all posts

Thursday, July 11, 2013

Meet Octavio Vallejo, A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of  Octavio Vallejo, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Octavio is one of five new bios posted this week.


Octavio Vallejo
Los Angeles, California, USA

Octavio Vallejo has been working in the HIV prevention field for more than 22 years. As an HIV+ gay Latino man, Octavio has long recognized the need for additional methods of protection for young gay men and other men who have sex with men. His involvement with rectal microbicides came through his interactions with scientists such as Dr. Ian McGowan and Dr. Ross Cranston. Their passion for this issue was contagious and soon Octavio became involved with IRMA's active body of passionate researchers and advocates.


Octavio was drawn to IRMA by its spirit of inclusion and the resolve, resilience, and passion shown by the advocates connected with IRMA. He works for the Capacity Building Assistance program at AIDS Project Los Angeles as a Biomedical Prevention Specialist. This role have given Octavio more opportunities to share evidence-based information to all parties interested in changing the course of the HIV epidemic and educate them about the new generation of prevention tools and approaches.

Currently, Octavio and his fellow staff members are in the process of creating the platform to bring microbicide advocacy to the forefront of all their trainings, educational endeavors and prevention discussions.

Thank you Octavio for your continued dedication to HIV/AIDS prevention advocacy! 

------------------- *Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content. -------------------

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Meet Javier Lopez, A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out Javier Lopez's mini-bio, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Javier is one of five new bios posted this week.


Javier Lopez
New York City, USA

Javier Lopez first learned about rectal microbicides when his partner worked for Project Gel in Puerto Rico. Javier was immediately impressed by the creativity of this approach to HIV prevention as promotion of condoms alone is often difficult in all populations.

Soon after, he attended a talk on rectal microbicides by IRMA's Jim Pickett at Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) in New York City. Then he was hooked and snatched up a few "Rectal Pride" stickers that now fabulously adorn his Ipad cover.

Javier has long been an advocate for HIV testing and for years has been involved in the HIV prevention fight in Puerto Rico. During his undergraduate studies he took part in numerous educational sessions for HIV/STI prevention in gay men. Currently, Javier is working as an assistant research scientist at the HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies that seeks to improve intervention screening practices for acute HIV infection in primary care setting in New York City. Soon Javier will be taking his education further as he enters the Masters of Public Health program at Hunter College in New York City.

Javier is also proud to have been a part of the recently launched HIV testing campaign for the CDC called "Reasons/Razones" which targets Latino gay and bisexual men to consider their reasons for getting tested. More information about this exciting campaign is available here.

Javier is excited to be a rectal microbicide advocate because he believes that it is important for this research to continue and that youth of all backgrounds should get involved.

Thank you Javier!
 

------------------- *Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content. -------------------

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

Meet Stephen McGill, A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Find out a little about Stephen McGill in his mini-bio, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Stephen is one of five new bios posted in the past week.


Stephen McGill
Monrovia, Liberia 

Stephen McGill, with an extensive background in public health, HIV/AIDS prevention, and human rights advocacy, first came into contact with rectal microbicide advocacy when he joined the highly-active IRMA listserv through the help of ACT UP Philadelphia and Health GAP. As an active member on the listserv, Stephen is able to engage with experts, researchers, and activists on the potential of rectal microbicide research in combating HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, notably his native Liberia.

Stephen is founder of Stop AIDS in Liberia (SAIL), one of three organizations that received small Global Lube Access Mobilisation (GLAM) grants to advocate for improved access to safe, condom- compatible lubricant So far, Stephen and SAIL have organized stakeholders meetings to promote condom compatible lubricants with other local organizations in Liberia, Sierra  Leone, Guinea, Gambia, and Cote d'Ivoire. In Liberia, Stephen has met with many organizations and media outlets including the Ministry of Gender and Development and the Ministry of Justice.

Stephen would also like to tell IRMA's followers to keep up the great work promoting diversity in advocacy, policy, and research. We are all looking forward to hearing more about Stephen and SAIL's advocacy efforts to improve lube access.

Thanks Stephen! 
 
------------------- *Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content. -------------------

Monday, July 8, 2013

Meet Hailey Gilmore, A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Find out a little about Hailey Gilmore in her interesting mini-bio, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Hailey is one of five new bios we are featuring.
 

Hailey Gilmore
San Francisco, California, USA

Hailey Gilmore studied international development in college and was always interested in sexual health promotion and education. While in school she interned at a local non-profit and developed a sex-ed workshop for youth in trade school. During this time she also became a volunteer HIV test counselor. This introduction to sexual health work opened the door for her current position as the Assistant Director of HIV Prevention Intervention Studies at Bridge HIV at the San Francisco Department of Public Health. She has been with Bridge HIV, supporting and coordinating clinical trials, for over four years.

Her organization conducts HIV prevention clinical trials testing HIV vaccines and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and soon, rectal microbicides. Bridge HIV also studies behavioral interventions.

A little over a year ago, her organization was approached by the Microbicide Trials Network about conducting MTN-017, a phase II safety and acceptability study of rectally applied tenofovir gel among gay men, men who have sex with men, and transwomen in the US, Peru, Thailand, and South Africa. Hailey and her colleagues are incredibly excited for the MTN-017 launch later this year.

Hailey is also busy with the HPTN 069 study, or NEXT-PrEP, which is looking at the safety and tolerability of four daily oral regimens of PrEP. She is also analyzing qualitative data about people's motivations to take PrEP to better address advocacy strategies.

Hailey and her group will also soon be hosting a screening of "The Rectal Revolution is Here" in July to engage the San Francisco community on the topic of rectal microbicides.


Hailey would like to encourage IRMA to continue to find additional community allies to partner with - rectal microbicides are just too exciting to not talk about!

Thank you Hailey! 

------------------- *Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content. -------------------

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Meet Coco Alinsug, A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of  Coco Alinsug, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Coco is one of five new bios posted this week.


  
Coco Alinsung
Boston, Massachusettes, USA

A native of the Philippines and a resident of Lynn, Massachusetts with his partner, Coco Alinsug has made a lifelong commitment to devote his time and energy to social justice, HIV/AIDS prevention, and issues facing LGBT youth.

Coco started his career as an HIV Counselor and Tester at the Gay and Bi Men's Health Program in Beverly, MA and later was appointed as the Executive Director of the North Shore Alliance on GLBT Youth which is funded by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health to provide HIV/STI education to youth 14-24 years old - a position he has held for eight years.

Currently Coco works as the Clinical Trials Field Recruitment Manager at The Fenway Institute where he has been for nearly seven years. It was in this role that Coco first came into contact with rectal microbicide advocacy as he was tasked with recruitment for all clinical trials, including the rectal microbicide study called Project Gel.

In his role at Fenway, Coco oversees outreach and recruitment for research studies looking at everything from possible HIV vaccines to microbicides to the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to prevent HIV transmission. Coco and his team travel around New England, educating people about HIV and STD transmission and safer sex practices while also recruiting potential study participants.

Coco is also Chair for Community Education and Recruitment group for both HIV Vaccine Trials Network (HVTN) and HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) and sits as a member of the protocol team for two studies, HVTN505 and HPTN069. Coco also is a consultant for various HIV and STD Outreach Programs both in the North Shore and Boston, and sometimes organizes and hosts shows in several clubs.

Coco would also like to encourage IRMA to keep up the good work and always stay fabulous.

Thank you for all your work Coco, and you stay fabulous too!


------------------- *Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content. -------------------

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Meet Annette Larkin, A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of  Annette Larkin, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Annette is one of five new bios posted last week.



Annette Larkin
Alexandria, Virginia, USA


"It's possible that microcides will really find a home in the rectum, so to speak."

Annette is an IRMA advocate, a communications consultant and a guest lecturer at Georgetown University's grad school for communications. She is also the assistant editor of North Wind Magazine. Annette has additionally been working with CAMI - Coalition Advancing Multipurpose Innovations.

Besides being a fabulous IRMA advocate, Annette enjoys travelling, watching HBO's 'Girls', and hanging out with her gorgeous daughter Bella and boyfriend.

Annette first started engaging with IRMA because she found the group very dynamic and engaging and wanted to join in. Additionaly, she has workd with CONRAD, the developer of tenofovir gel for vaginal as well as rectal use.

Annette believes that rectal microbicides are important as a new HIV prevention technology because there seems to be an increase in the amount of people having anal sex, and lube is needed to maximize pleasure anyway. Her advice to IRMA is to keep believing in rectal microbicides!

Thank you, Annette, for all that you do!

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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.

  -------------------

Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Meet Jim Higginbotham, A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of  Jim Higginbotham, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Jim is one of five new bios posted last week.




Jim Higginbotham
Birmingham, Alabama, USA


"I must continue to inspire others, especially the younger generation to carry the torch until the end of HIV."

Jim is the Community Educator for HIV Vaccines at the University of Alabama Birmingham - a site for a number of biomedical HIV prevention trials. He loves helping his community in the fight against HIV through education and counseling. During his spare time, Jim enjoys spending time at his family farm, kayaking, hiking, and camping.

Jim initially became involved with IRMA while attending Microbicide Trials Network meetings and conferences. He recruited men to participate in MTN 007, which was a rectal microbicide study that included the University of Alabama clinical research site. Jim believes that a combination of prevention strategies must be utilized to reduce the number of infections that continue to occur in the United States and around the world and asserts that "a rectal microbicide, marketed as a lubricant, could help achieve that goal because it would, in my opinion, be embraced by individuals who engage in anal sex as an easy way to protect themselves."

Jim advises IRMA to keep up the good work in helping to educate the community on the need for rectal microbicides. Currently, Jim is recruiting and screening individuals for the HVTN 505, a vaccine study.

Jim has lost many friends to HIV/AIDS... a loss which continues to inspire his involvement in the fight for prevention and treatments. Jim is the sole survivor of his original peer group of friends from his early twenties.

"If I had to point to one individual as an inspiration, I would have to say that person is Butch McKay, a great friend and tireless advocate for the community in the fight against HIV. Butch has inspired me more than anyone to do the work that I do."

Thank you, Jim, for all that you do!

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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.

  -------------------

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Meet Clare, A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of  Clare Collins, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Clare  is one of five new bios posted October 30, 2012.



Clare Collins
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA


"I think rectal microbicides just make sense. The idea of a product that people might actually WANT to use to protect themselves against HIV is a no-brainer."

Clare is an Associate Director of Communications and External Relations at the Microbicide Trials Network (MTN), where she works to promote MTN's rectal microbicide agenda. She also works to strategize the best ways to communicate with others concerning complex health information around biomedical HIV prevention. After starting at the MTN in 2010, she got involved with IRMA through reaching out to IRMA chair Jim Pickett and believes rectal microbicides are a very important part of the HIV prevention research agenda.

Currently Clare is busy planning for the launch of the first-ever rectal microbicide Phase II trial (MTN 017), testing a reduced-glycerin version of tenofovir gel for safety and acceptability among gay men, other men who have sex with men, and transgender women at domestic and international sites. The first site is expected to open enrollment sometime in December 2012. Clare is also part of a team (including IRMA and Population Council) that developed a new educational video, "The Rectal Revolution is Here: An Introduction to Rectal Microbicide Clinical Trials," which will be launched at the same time MTN 017 starts. The video is 13 minutes long and will be available on YouTube. It features animation and live action, and has English, Spanish, and Thai versions.

Clare has been greatly influenced by her mother, who taught her valuable lessons about compassion and concern for others through her battle with cancer, including the necessity of universal access to health care. She is very excited about the future and looks forward to seeing the evolving research in this area.

Thank you, Clare, for all that you do!

-------------------

*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

  *Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.

-------------------

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Meet Robert, A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of  Robert Bucklew, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Robert is one of five new bios posted October 30, 2012.



Robert Bucklew
Cleveland, Ohio, USA


Robert is the Outreach Coordinator for the Case Western Reserve University AIDS Clinical Trial Unit. He works on a variety of HIV-related research issues, including treatment trials, microbicides, preventative vaccines and PrEP. Outside of work, Robert loves creating art.

Robert first got involved with IRMA through both Jim Pickett (IRMA chair) and his professional connection to the Microbicide Trials Network. He considers rectal microbicides to be of utmost importance in the field of biomedical HIV prevention, and think they will be especially effective if considered sex positive, and serve to enhance sexual pleasure as well as sexual health.

Currently, he is working to enroll gay and bisexual men and transgender women into a preventative HIV vaccine trial, HVTN 505. Additionally, he is working on a new PrEP trial, called HPTN 069. His efforts focus on populations at highest risk, where there is clear need for new prevention strategies.

Robert has been greatly influenced by the late Eric Rofes, whom he met at a Gay Men's Health Summit. He was enlightened by Eric's holistic, assets-based approach to gay male sexuality, both personally and professionally. Today, he considers himself a better man because of Eric's outlook.

Thank you, Robert, for all that you do!

  -------------------

*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

 *Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.

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Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Meet Jeton, A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of  Jeton Ademaj, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Jeton is one of five new bios posted October 30, 2012.



Jeton Ademaj
New York City, USA

"Don't be afraid to own your sexuality, and don't be afraid to defend human nature from those who presume to redefine it."

For several years, Jeton remained unaware of IRMA's work, but became involved as communities began to really take notice of PrEP in 2011. IRMA's active listserv has provided a platform for a great deal of discussion and debate on the topic.

Jeton believes rectal microbicides are important because, in general, he believes that men dislike condoms and research has yet to create more pleasurable and desirable condoms to enhance usage. Through rectal (and vaginal) microbicides, receptive individuals can become empowered in preventing HIV/STI transmission, without having to get permission from the active partner to use protection.

Jeton advises IRMA to not be afraid to defend human nature, despite one's sexuality. He encourages IRMA to always publicize the work to further encourage researchers to become involved in IRMA's mission.

Currently, Jeton contributes as a voice of reason in certain POZ settings, and advocates for human rights through progressive politics.

Jeton loves spending time with his husband, reads various scientific and technological developments, and listens to live music. His biggest influences come from his family, his best friend, and his husband.

Thank you, Jeton, for all that you do!

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  *Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.

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Friday, July 27, 2012

AIDS 2012: Meet Rig

via BETA, by San Fransisco AIDS Foundation

Rig Rush of the Black AIDS Institute is the “mobilization coordinator of everything gay black male,” an advocate of better and earlier sex education for youth—and a volunteer in a rectal microbicide trial.

Throughout the MTN-007 study, which looked at the safety and acceptability of a gel containing the HIV drug tenofovir (Viread), Rig had regular HIV tests, answered questions about his sex life, underwent rectal exams and uncomfortable biopsies—and helped bring another HIV prevention tool one step closer.

The charming Mr. Rush spoke with BETA about his experience in the trial, his advice for others considering joining a microbicide study, and what words of wisdom he would give to his younger self if he could.

Rig was also featured as one of IRMA's Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocates.  Check it out here.

Read the rest.


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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.
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Friday, July 20, 2012

Meet Toon - A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of Wipas Wimonsate (Toon), the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Toon is one of the six new bios just posted the other day, including individuals from Thailand, Kenya and the US.  Each will be featured on the blog, and you can read all of them here right now.


Wipas Wimonsate (Toon)
Bangkok, Thailand

"As nature is so diversified, why aren't HIV prevention technologies as well? People have different preferences, needs, and capabilities. If we are to be successful in HIV prevention, we have to understand and accept the nature of people, and that is diversity."

Toon is a medical and social researcher and community associate working with the Silom Community Clinic in Bangkok. The Silom Clinic will be a site for the Phase II rectal microbicide expanded safety and acceptability trial called MTN-017, which will be investigating a reduced-glycerin formulation of tenofovir gel applied rectally compared with oral Truvada among HIV-negative gay men, other men who have sex with men (MSM), and transgender women. His site is expected to begin enrolling volunteers in early 2013.

Outside of work, he enjoys playing badminton, reading, and watching television.

He first got involved with IRMA when he was asked to translate some materials on lubricant safety. "Safety of lubricants for rectal use: A fact sheet for HIV educators and advocates" is available in Thai thanks to Toon, as is the document Safety of lubricants for rectal use: "Questions and Answers for HIV educators and advocates."

Toon believes that rectal microbicides provide a protective option for those who choose not to utilize a condom. He also recognizes that rectal microbicides offer a different manner in which to encourage sexual health, and that the endeavor to develop safe, effective, acceptable and accessibile rectal microbicides will be a major contribution to humankind.

Toon has worked closely on the soon-to-be-released IRMA video ("The Rectal Revolution is Here: An Introduction to Rectal Microbicide Clinical Trials") being developed in partnership with the Microbicide Trials Network and Population Council. He is part of the team's Video Advisory Committee and has provided invaluable feedback on content, messaging and language. Translating from English into Thai is rather complicated, and Toon's guidance has been critical to ensure the team "gets it right." He also facilitated the video segments that were recorded in Thailand, and worked closely on the Thai focus groups which were designed and implemented to test the "rough cut" of the video.

Toon was greatly influenced by Dr. Frits van Griensven, the pioneer of HIV studies among Thai gay men, other MSM and transgender individuals. He is very excited for the upcoming studies in Thailand, and is eager to work towards zero new HIV infections rate gay men, other MSM and transgender individuals, locally and internationally.

Thank you, Toon, for all that you do!



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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.
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Thursday, July 19, 2012

Meet Rig Rush - A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of Rig Rush, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Rig is one of the six new bios just posted the other day, including individuals from Thailand, Kenya and the US.  Each will be featured on the blog, and you can read all of them here right now.


Rig Rush
Los Angeles, California

"By promoting affirming messages that reinforce normalizing overall sexual health and awareness, you can inspire individuals who engage in anal sex to take ownership and accountability of their own behaviors; making confident and informed decisions. In my fierce opinion, that is the basis for HIV and STD prevention."

Originally from Pittsburgh, Rig just moved across country to Los Angeles to become the new Community Mobilization Coordinator at the Black AIDS Institute. He has several interests including going to movies, amusement parks, and taking extremely long walks. He loves meeting different types of people and creating pleasant memories. He also happens to be one of the stars of the soon-to-be-released IRMA video called "The Rectal Revolution is Here: An Introduction to Rectal Microbicide Clinical Trials" being produced in collaboration with the Microbicide Trials Network and Population Council. In the video, Rig relates his experiences as a participant in a rectal microbicide trial with wit, warmth, and passion.

He believes that STD information, brochures and presentations focus on "drips, itches and stenches". Based on the available information, Rig felt he was the only individual who passionately enjoyed receptive anal sex. He also found the small amounts of health-related information regarding anal health/enjoyment highly offensive. Given his frustration, Rig was overjoyed when he heard about the research study that "celebrated the bottom perspective" - the study he talks about in the video.

He acknowledges that "men love sex, and they love unprotected sex, but most men do not think about risk when the moment arises." Condoms protect only when used consistently and correctly. However the concept of rectal microbicides "truly takes prevention and puts it where the rubber meets the road." He finds microbicides in general (both rectal and vaginal) to be the best modern step to fighting the HIV/AIDS epidemic that isn't gay specific. Rectal microbicides have the potential to have a vast and appealing impact on the community collectively.

Rig's advice for IRMA is to remain consistent and committed to promoting awareness and education about rectal microbicides and health. He feels that "the information one obtains from IRMA is very beneficial for the collective gay community."

He will soon be a featured speaker in the satellite session "Rectal Microbicides: Making HIV Prevention Gel" at the International AIDS Conference in Washington, DC with other members of IRMA and allies. The session is taking place in the afternoon on Sunday, July 22, 2012. More info on this event can be found here.

He works to motivate, inspire and unite gay black men and other men who have sex with men around a variety of issues, and continues to support and celebrate black gay men regardless of their HIV status. He strives to help others live productive, informed and authentic lives filled with healthy connections and relationships.

Rig's mother has had the deepest impact on his life. She is his symbol of strength, compassion and authenticity, which shaped Rig into the man he is today. His mother's fearless, positive and audacious appreciation for life ignited a fire that continuously resonates.

Thank you Rig for all that you do!



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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.
-------------------

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Meet Amber - A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of Amber Rucker, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Amber is one of six new bios just posted the other day, including individuals from Thailand, Kenya and the US.  Each will be featured on the blog, and you can read all of them here right now.


Amber Rucker
Boston, Massachusetts

"I truly respect an organization like IRMA that does not shy away from talking about sex and pushing for more research in the rectal microbicide field. This is really important work."

Amber is the Senior Research Associate at Fenway Health. Outside of work, she loves cooking and baking new and exciting recipes.

Amber became involved in IRMA through her current position and was intrigued by IRMA's ability to talk about sex and push for more research into the rectal microbicide field. She also believes that rectal microbicides are important because "receptive anal intercourse carries the highest risk of sexual HIV transmission. Providing individuals with other methods of protection against HIV and other STIs is vital for community safety."

She hopes that in time, the stigma associated with receptive anal intercourse will diminish, and men and women will feel more comfortable this very common behavior with health care providers.

Currently, Amber is working on a vaginal ring study called MTN-013/IPM 026. She is very excited about her studies, and is eager to see her research and work evolve.

With the upcoming MTN-017 trial, Amber will be involved in site activation activities, and will be conducting study visits. MTN-017 is the very first Phase II rectal microbicide expanded safety and acceptability study in the field and will recruit gay men, other men who have sex with men, and transgender women who are HIV negative. U.S. sites will launch later in 2012, and international sites are expected to begin enrolling in early 2013. The study will be investigating a reduced-glycerin formulation of tenofovir gel applied rectally compared with oral Truvada.

Amber's mother has been her greatest influence. Her mother has demonstrated leadership, strength, and compassion, and encourages Amber to pursue all her passions and goals fearlessly.

Thank you, Amber, for all that you do!


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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.
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Meet Ben - A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of Ben Perkins, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Ben is one of the six new bios just posted the other day, including individuals from Thailand, Kenya and the US.  Each will be featured on the blog, and you can read all of them here right now.


Ben Perkins
Boston, Massachusetts

"Always remember that prevention takes place within a socioecological context, and that no matter how effective the biomedical intervention, if we don't respect this context, the prevention modality is doomed to fail."

Ben is the Associate Director for Community Engagement at the Fenway Institute at Fenway Health in Boston. Outside of work, Ben enjoys running, cooking, and reading non-fiction.

Ben first got involved with IRMA through IRMA chair Jim Pickett. He asserts that rectal microbicides are important among new HIV prevent technologies because men and women require a variety of tools when engaging in their sexual lives.

Ben advises IRMA to "remember that rectal health discussions should be far more comprehensive than HIV prevention—HPV, for example, is an increasing cause for concern. Thus, IRMA needs to insist that rectal health should be part of a holistic approach to health and wellness."

He has played an important role on the soon-to-be-released IRMA video ("The Rectal Revolution is Here: An Introduction to Rectal Microbicide Clinical Trials") being developed in partnership with the Microbicide Trials Network and Population Council. He is part of the team's Video Advisory Committee and has provided invaluable feedback on content and messaging. He also worked closely on the focus groups (especially those conducted in Boston) which were designed and implemented to test the "rough cut" of the video with different populations to help ensure the proper messages are coming through.

Currently, Ben is investigating the role of racial discrimination in medication adherence for HIV-positive black gay men and other men who have sex with men. and is working with a community coalition on a structural intervention for at-risk adolescents called Connect to Protect.

Ben is also part of the Fenway team working on the MTN-017 trial, the very first Phase II expanded safety and acceptability trial in the rectal microbicide field which will have sites in the U.S. (Boston, San Francisco and Pittsburgh) as well as international sites in Lima, Peru; Cape Town, South Africa; and two Thai sites - Bangkok and Chiang Mai. The U.S. sites will begin enrolling later in 2012, and the international sites will start up in early 2013. HIV-negative gay men, other men who have sex with men, and transgender women will be asked to volunteer.

Coming out as a gay man had the biggest influence on Ben's life. It continues to be a process, and still challenges him in every area of life.

Thank you, Ben, for all you do!


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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.
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Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Meet Carol - a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of Carol Odada, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Carol is one of six new bios just posted yesterday, including individuals from Thailand, Kenya and the US.  Each will be featured on the blog, and you can read all of them here right now.



Carol Odada
Nairobi, Kenya

"I stand out strongly as a women's rights champion, and am quite steadfast on the human need for rectal microbicides."

Carol received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Eastern Africa. Since graduating, she has focused on social work, and has helped to develop and implement care and support programs for people living with HIV. She currently works in biomedical HIV prevention research advocacy, and enjoys advocating for women's rights and sexual health rights.

Carol became involved with IRMA when the topic of rectal microbicides was still a relatively new in Kenya. In December of 2011, Carol was one of a number of African leaders who joined IRMA for a two-day strategy meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia that took place in advance of the 16th International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa. The meeting officially launched IRMA's Project ARM - Africa for Rectal Microbicides initiative. IRMA recently released a report from that meeting called "On The Map: Ensuring Africa's Place in Rectal Microbicide Research and Advocacy" recommending a set of priority actions for IRMA and allies to better engage Africans across the continent in rectal microbicide activities. Carol played a very important role in helping define those strategies. Learn more about Project ARM, and read the report, here.

She understands that different prevention strategies need to be developed to provide sexual health to the world's population and that rectal microbicides will provide a new tool for women and men regardless of sexual orientation. Specifically, she educates women, young and old, about anal sex.

Currently, Carol is working on a collaboration between AVAC and ATHENA Network called WHiPT - Women's HIV Prevention Tracking Project.

She will soon be a featured speaker in the satellite session "Rectal Microbicides: Making HIV Prevention Gel" at the International AIDS Conference in Washington, DC with other members of IRMA and allies. The session is taking place in the afternoon on Sunday, July 22, 2012 - more info on this event can be found here.

Carol encourages IRMA to keep pushing forward, and believes that a day will come when all of the group's collective work and efforts are fully appreciated.

HIV has taught her to value every person and every opinion. And her five-year-old daughter gives her a reason to wake up and work hard every day. Because of her daughter's influence, she strives to be a better person and tries to give back to the community as much as she can.

Thank you, Carol, for all that you do!


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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.
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Monday, July 16, 2012

Meet Pedro - A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of Pedro Goicochea, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Pedro is one of six new bios just posted today, including individuals from Kenya,Thailand and the US.  Each will be featured on the blog, and you can read all of them here right now.




Pedro Goicochea
San Francisco, California

"It took us more than 30 years to realize that there is not one unique strategy to prevent HIV acquisition, and that combination prevention is key, and rectal microbicides must be part of the prevention toolbox."

Originally from Lima, Peru, Pedro is in charge of communications and community relations for the iPrEx OLE study, the open-label continuation of the iPrEx trial. iPrEx is the study that showed daily oral use of the ARV drug Truvada among gay men, other men who have sex with men (MSM), and transgender women worked to prevent HIV.

He enjoys his work because of the invaluable opportunities it provides for him to meet interesting people who are working really hard on finding ways to stop this epidemic. He takes pride in the sensitivity his team shows to community members and for highlighting their needs with scientists and stakeholders. Besides iPrEx OLE, Pedro also just finished a couple of other projects related to the feasibility of voluntary circumcision for HIV prevention in gay men and other MSM, and neonatal male circumcision for HIV prevention, in the jungles of Peru.

In his spare time Pedro loves to ride his bike. He enjoys "having destinations that I reach through the effort of pedaling." Pedro's biggest life influence was his mother, but he is also blessed to be surrounded by excellent people that have been an inspiration. In addition, he has lost several friends to HIV and this motivated him to do something about it.

He was introduced to rectal microbicides and IRMA when he met IRMA chair Jim Pickett through IRMA steering committee member and IRMA-ALC co-founder Jerome Galea. He believes that any strategy to help end the epidemic is useful and thinks that rectal microbicides are an important prevention technology because anal sex is the primary mode of HIV transmission among gay men and other MSM, and that women practice anal sex more than is reported or fully understood.

Pedro has played an important role on the soon-to-be-released IRMA video ("The Rectal Revolution is Here: An Introduction to Rectal Microbicide Clinical Trials") being developed in partnership with the Microbicide Trials Network and Population Council. He is part of the team's Video Advisory Committee and has provided invaluable feedback on content and messaging. He also worked closely on the focus groups (especially those conducted in Lima, Peru) which were designed and implemented to test the "rough cut" of the video with different populations to help ensure the proper messages are coming through. He says it has been a very inspirational expereince and he is really looking forward to see the final release. IRMA plans to release the final version of the video in early September, 2012.

Thanks Pedro, for all that you do!


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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.
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Monday, June 25, 2012

Meet Virginia - A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of Virginia Zalazar, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Virginia is one of six new bios just posted a few days ago, including individuals from Kenya, Thailand, the UK, India and the US.  Each will be featured on the blog, and you can read all of them here right now.


Virginia Zalazar
Buenos Aires, Argentina

Virginia is a psychologist and social researcher at Fundación Huésped, an NGO that works in response to HIV/AIDS, both as an infectious disease and as a social challenge. Since 2007, she has been performing research studies focusing on microbicide acceptability with women, gay men, and transgender populations.

Virginia also coordinates workshops for serodiscordant couples, and conducts pre and post-HIV test counseling at a public hospital in Buenos Aires.

In her spare time, Virginia enjoys reading novels and science fiction books, travelling, watching movies, listening to music, and spending time with her family and friends.

Virginia first got involved with IRMA at the 2009 IAS Conference in Cape Town, South Africa. She believes that rectal microbicides are important, as well as vaginal and other biomedical prevention methods, because sexual practices require different and suitable options for each individual separately. Virginia hopes that in the near future, drugstores, healthcare centers or hospitals will carry a variety of products that will promote sexual health and sexual pleasure.

Virginia advises IRMA to continue consolidating collaborative work, strengthening international relationships, engaging additional partners, and identifying existing and future research opportunities for the region.

Currently, Virginia is looking for funding to conduct a study focusing on the public health impact of PrEP, and the accessibility of treatment among transgender sex workers in Northern Provinces of Argentina.

Virginia was introduced to a number of partners connected with IRMA-ALC (IRMA's South American chapter based at Epicentro in Lima, Peru) at the Microbicides 2012 conference in April. Less than a month later, she participated in a two-day strategic meeting led by IRMA-ALC and AVAC in Lima - with colleagues from Peru and Paraguay - to plan for expanded and improved advocacy around rectal microbicides, PrEP, sexual health and other LGBT issues. Click here for photos (on the IRMA ALC Facebook page) from the meeting. She is very excited about the possibilities this growing initiative will bring to the future of rectal microbicides and PrEP in the Latin American region.

Virginia has been influenced by her family, friends, colleagues, patients and activists. Her appreciation extends out to everyone who is passionate about what they do, and working towards a better future.

Thank you, Virginia, for all that you do!

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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.
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Friday, June 22, 2012

Meet Rebekah - A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate

Check out this interesting mini-bio of Rebekah Webb, the latest in IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Rebekah is one of six new bios just posted a few days ago, including individuals from Kenya, Thailand, the US, and Argentina.  Each will be featured on the blog, and you can read all of them here right now.




Rebekah Webb
North Devon, United Kingdom

"Even if we had a vaccine, or a microbicide, or if treatment was universal, I think there would still be a large group of people that would find a rectal microbicide incredibly useful and protective in their circumstances."

Rebekah is an advocate, fundraiser, and a policy researcher on HIV and reproductive health issues. She is currently working closely with AVAC to launch a new project building the capacity of European advocacy for new prevention options called PxROAR (Prevention Options, Outreach, Advocacy and Representation) Europe. PxROAR Europe had their orientation meeting in London in June 2012vand she is very excited about the work that advocates will be doing over the coming year to raise awareness and commitment to European funding and implementation of new HIV Strategies.

Rebekah's considers herself lucky to have worked with some incredible advocates including her mentors Lori Heise and Anna Forbes. However, her biggest influence came from her close friend Greg's personal experience of being diagnosed with HIV in 1996. She remembers helping him put all of his 60 or so pills into a huge pill box according to the right time and day. This inspired her want to work for improved HIV treatment and prevention.

She first got involved with IRMA while she was working at the Global Campaign for Microbicides when IRMA was founded (2005.) She has seen it grow from a handful of people to a massive global phenomenon. She considers rectal microbicides important among new HIV prevention technologies because everyone needs more options to protect themselves against HIV and other STIs. Not everyone can use or negotiate condoms. People like using lubricants and she believes that it would be amazing if they protected you at the same time, similar to the way we use hand gel now.

Rebekah says that IRMA is great at what it does and the listserv is a fantastic resource for anyone working in HIV, as it covers a lot more than just rectal microbicides. She praises the fact that it's a great place where the community can come to debate, challenge, and learn from one another. (Click here if you are interested in joining IRMA's listserv.)

Thanks Rebekah for all that you do!


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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.
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Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Meet Bobby - A Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate from India

Check out this interesting min-bio of Bobby Ramakant, the latest in  IRMA's "Meet a Friendly Rectal Microbicide Advocate" series on the IRMA website here.  Bobby is one of six new bios just posted two days ago, including individuals from Kenya, Thailand, the UK, the US and Argentina.  Each will be featured on the blog, and you can read all of them here right now.



Bobby Ramakant
Lucknow, India

"Rectal microbicide research and advocacy for HIV prevention options for those practicing anal sex is not just about product advocacy but about giving a right to health and a right to choice especially to those receptive partners (women and men) of anal sex who are currently unable to use existing HIV prevention options."

Bobby is an IRMA advocate, a health activist and a brain tumor survivor who graduated in science and communications and then later went on to journalism. He currently works with Citizen News Service. He passionately believes that unless voices and perspectives of affected communities are heard and documented in the main discourses on HIV, the desired change will not come. Bobby believes that true knowledge lies with the people who are dealing with these issues on a daily basis.

His biggest influence has been Dr. Sandeep Pandey who is a noted Gandhian activist. Dr. Sandeep Pandey has always believed in Bobby and encourages him by saying, "that if we truly believe in our deepest convictions and act upon it, resources and means to achieve the goals will follow." Mahatma Gandhi is another inspiration because of the shared desire for a just social order. He also loves listening to Indian and English music and is a big foodie.

Bobby got involved with IRMA in 2006, when Naz Foundation International team members organized an informational meeting about rectal microbicides. Although rectal microbicides were not a novel concept to him, they came up very strongly during INN Meetings (Indian Network of NGOs on HIV/AIDS) held in Tamil Nadu and Utter Pradesh, India. In 2008, as rectal microbicides were growing in stature, Bobby and his team raised this issue in the "Microbicides Experts Group" of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) in junction with the Microbicides Society of India. From here Bobby and his colleagues managed to secure and mandate some resources for basic science research on rectal microbicides in India.

Bobby believes that rectal microbicides are particularly important because, if proven safe and effective for HIV prevention, receptive male and female partners in anal sex will have an HIV prevention option that they can control. He thinks this is predominantly important for those who are unable to negotiate safer sex with condoms or use other currently existing HIV prevention options. If rectal microbicides are developed as a lubricant, that might be quite acceptable because many people who practice anal sex commonly use some kind of lubricant already.

His advice for IRMA is to have in-country members of IRMA who can take leadership to organize and develop country-driven advocacy programs to support IRMA's mission.

Bobby is involved in preparing for the XIX International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2012). He and fellow staffers from CNS will be working with IRMA to amplify rectal microbicide research and advocacy and related issues at AIDS 2012. He encourages all to stay connected and stay tuned.

Thanks Bobby for all that you do!

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*Join IRMA's robust, highly-active. moderated, global listserv addressing rectal microbicide research and advocacy as well as other interesting new HIV prevention technologies by contacting us at rectalmicro@gmail.com. Joining our listserv automatically makes you a member of IRMA - a network of more than 1,100 advocates, scientists, policy makers and funders from all over the world.

*Please look for us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/InternationalRectalMicrobicideAdvocates, and you can follow us on Twitter: @rectalmicro.

*Also, please note that shared news items from other sources posted on this blog do not necessarily mean IRMA has taken any position on the article's content.
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