Attending the ANAC 2024 Conference: A Life-Changing Experience

From November 14-16, I had the privilege of attending the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care (ANAC) 2024 conference in Indianapolis. The experience was nothing short of amazing. This was my first experience attending ANAC, and I'm still reeling from the connections I made and the knowledge I gained. I am grateful to Krista and Bridgette for helping me with the registration process by linking me to an ANAC member who helped in getting me registered to be able to attend this year's conference.

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Bridgette, Masonia, and Bose from The Well Project! Photo courtesy of Bridgette Picou.

One of the highlights of the conference was a presentation by Masonia and Bridgette from The Well Project. They showed a powerful short documentary called "Unexpected," which sparked a lively discussion about the challenges faced by women living with HIV, particularly black women and pregnant women. The presentation was so impactful that it received a standing ovation - the only session to do so during the entire conference. It was amazing!!

Afterwards, lots of people were introduced to The Well Project by Masonia and most people I met and introduced myself to as a community advisory board member and a global ambassador of The Well Project responded, "Oh, you are with Bridgette from The Well Project!" and it made me happy to see the awesome work our sister Bridgette has been doing.

I returned home feeling inspired, motivated, and equipped with new knowledge and connections that will enhance my work in HIV care and advocacy.

I also had the opportunity to explore some fascinating poster presentations on HIV treatment advocacy, achievements in PrEP, and other related topics.

The plenary sessions were equally informative, covering a range of subjects that deepened my understanding of HIV care and treatment. We all still have a long way to go when it comes to HIV, because I also attended one session that breaks my heart; it was on the criminalization laws against persons living with HIV in the state of Indiana.

One of the most unexpected delights of the conference was meeting two associate professors from Nigeria who reside in Florida and Alabama, USA. We spent half of the last day of the conference together, exploring the Center for Nursing Scholarship (SIGMA) in Indianapolis. It was wonderful to connect with fellow professionals who share my passion for HIV care and advocacy.

Because I still have a dream of becoming a great nurse someday, I was encouraged by these two wonderful professionals who are nurses and associate professors in their careers. They encouraged me to start and even gave me steps to take. I appreciate you both Mrs. Elisabeth and Mr. Ikenna.

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Bose and Bridgette.

Photo courtesy of Bose Oladayo.

Attending the ANAC 2024 conference was a life-changing experience that I will always treasure. I returned home feeling inspired, motivated, and equipped with new knowledge and connections that will enhance my work in HIV care and advocacy.

If you're a healthcare professional or advocate working in HIV care, I highly recommend attending future ANAC conferences. The experience will enrich your understanding of HIV care, connect you with like-minded professionals, and inspire you to make a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS.