To find HIV testing facilities in your area, go to HIVtest.cdc.gov.
The next generation
Traylor feels her HIV education in high school didn't offer crucial information about testing facilities and local rates of infection -- information you can find on CDC.gov.
"In school we learn(ed) that HIV can lead to AIDS and AIDS can lead to death. ... It's a fear and that's it."
Today, Traylor is raising two healthy children with the help of her mother, and is educating them early about HIV.
The education starts at home, but it isn't always easy. Traylor helped her 9-year-old son with a project on the stigma of HIV, but admitted she was nervous to talk to him about sex.
"I said, 'If mommy had HIV, what would you do?' He said he wouldn't touch me, he wouldn't kiss me, (or) hug me anymore."
It opened the door for Traylor to talk to her son about how HIV is transmitted. Though she didn't tell him her status, she explained to him that HIV and AIDS can't be spread though common contact, like hugs and kisses.
"Then (he) said, "OK, Mom, I'll hug you. And I'll kiss you. I'll still love you the same."
Comments
The views expressed are not those of this company or its affiliated companies. Please note by clicking on "Post" you acknowledge that you have read the Terms of Service and the comment you are posting is in compliance with such terms.