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 In 2003, NOVAM received a new client, Will, in its Healthy Education Alternatives for Teens (HEAT) program, which offers case management to HIV positive youth between the ages of 13-24. Will was seventeen years old and had been born with HIV. His mother, who passed away from the disease, did not have access to the medications for HIV positive pregnant women which are readily available today. When he came to NOVAM, Will did not know much about his disease, how to get help, or where to turn. NOVAM was able to step in and provide Will with the assistance and guidance he needed. For two years, Will participated in the HEAT program, receiving counseling, mentoring, case management, and access to medical care. During this time, Will learned a lot about HIV and living with the disease.
In 2005, NOVAM lost contact with Will when he moved to Texas. While away, Will was not taking care of himself. He was not receiving medical care, he was involved in substance abuse, and he had lost his connections with his family, friends, and support system in Virginia.
In October 2009, NOVAM received a call from Will: he was in a hospital in Northern Virginia and wanted help. He was immediately reenrolled in the HEAT program. In November, Will was released from the hospital. He was homeless, had no family, friends, or social support. NOVAM was ready to step in and help him stabilize his life. Working closely with Will and other community organizations, NOVAM was able to secure Will a place to live, clothing, and food. His health greatly improved.
This past March, Will turned 25 years old, and was no longer eligible to receive services from the HEAT program. After building a relationship with NOVAM, and receiving services for more than seven years, Will aged-out of the program. After all that NOVAM and Will had been through, this was a tough transition on both ends. Not only did NOVAM provide will with support and services throughout his time with the HEAT program, but Will served as a friend of and inspiration for NOVAM. He is continuing his care with the Inova Juniper program.
Will has been described as intelligent, open, strong, a survivor, and an inspiration for other youth. Today, Will is living out many of the goals he accomplished while still with NOVAM, including having a lease on an apartment, maintaining a stable living situation, and writing an autobiography.
Youth in Northern Virginia are at risk for contracting HIV. Through HEAT, HIV positive youth are empowered to take charge of their lives and make healthy and informed decisions. The HEAT program is one of only two programs in Northern Virginia that offers services, such as transportation, intake for medical care, supportive counseling and mentoring, referrals to community services, and mental health support to HIV positive youth. Through participating in the HEAT program, youth exhibited more maturity, better decision-making, and increased knowledge about their health.
If you would like more information on the HEAT program, please contact Magno Caballero, Youth Case Manager for the HEAT program, at 703-533-5505 x23. |
