Story 9

Carlos, 35

Miami, FL

I was first introduced to PrEP online in 2006, before it became mainstream. My Dr. at the time didn’t know what I was talking about and really wasn’t supportive in finding out, so I had to find alternative means. Fast forward to 2017, after discussing it with other guys on Grindr and hook up buddies, I found out it was accessible for FREE with almost no obstacle. What I thought would have been super unaffordable, something like $2k a month or almost $100 with insurance became (1) super affordable and (2) there’s programs to keep me on it and tested regularly. With the help of Care Resource, I was able to get PrEP (Truvada, Descovy Apretude) and stay on it regularly. Side effects were light to none. Care Resource was always there to guide me along the way.

Before HIV testing became so prevalent, it was always so difficult to find a place that had FREE HIV testing available. Not being super out with my family doctor and keeping my sexual health current became like acrobat in a jungle gym. It was always hard to get tested “regularly” and finding a free clinic that didn’t ask too much information. Discretely popping from clinics and jumping in and out of mobile test vans was the best for the times. Now getting HIV tested regularly is easy while taking PrEP with my family Dr. At times, I swing by Out of the Closet or AFH, or online to make sure I can tested as needed.