'There is a Lot of Fear When it Comes to HIV/AIDS'

Bishop Terry Angel Mason Urges Participation on National HIV Testing Day

San Diego, CA - It is estimated that 1.2 million people in the United States are HIV positive. One in five people don’t realize they are infected, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

As part of his dedication to saving lives, full-blown AIDS survivor and speaker Terry Angel Mason is urging individuals to be tested for HIV on June 27, for National HIV Testing Day.

To promote HIV Testing Day, Mason will be the guest speaker for the ‘I Speak Life’ event at Christ Church of San Diego.

The event will take place on Saturday, June 23, 2012, from 10:00 am-12:00 pm at 1355 Fern Street, San Diego, CA. Mason will be discussing what African-American seniors, teens and young adults need to know about HIV/AIDS and how they can protect themselves.

The program will also include: "A Call to Action" by Bishop Ikenna Anyanwu Kokayi, the presiding Prelate of Christ Church Ministries in San Diego. A book signing and lunch will follow the program.

Mason has been raising national awareness of the importance of HIV testing and prevention strategies and has been the guest speaker at numerous events, including The San Diego Urban League, San Diego Neighborhood House Association, The Black Women’s Network Organization, Harold Washington College, and many others.

A Pulitzer-nominated author and HIV/AIDS activist, Mason is available to discuss numerous topics about HIV/AIDS including: how to stay HIV negative, how to live a long and productive life with HIV/AIDS, and how to protect loved ones, and what to do if you test positive for HIV.

According to Mason, “HIV/AIDS is an epidemic that won’t end until we arm ourselves with the right knowledge and smart actions. Knowing your HIV status is key to stopping the spread of this preventable disease. There is a lot of fear when it comes to HIV/AIDS, so people are often afraid to get tested. The reality is that not knowing you are infected could potentially kill you and anyone you are sexually involved with. With today’s advancements in treatments, people infected with HIV can live long, productive lives. Early detection is key to stopping the spread of the virus, so getting tested is crucial.”

A highly sought after guest speaker, Mason has been featured in numerous radio, print and television interviews including San Diego’s Fox Channel 5’s morning show. He is the recipient of numerous awards, and has received commendations from California mayors Jerry Sanders, and John J. Duran for his achievements, in addition to receiving a commendation from the San Diego County Board of Supervisors and San Diego City Council for his global endeavors to prevent HIV/AIDS.

Visit www.TerryAngelMason.com to purchase Mason’s books, read breaking news stories, feature articles, interviews, or obtain more information about the author.