How is Dab Garner healthy?

As a 30 year HIV and AIDS survivor, I stay healthy by pursuing my hopes, dreams and passion in life by being an activist/speaker/long term survivor. 

Through my work doing HIV/AIDS awareness, education and prevention while helping those already infected by HIV; I live every day to the fullest.

I take my HIV and other medications as instructed, exercise six days a week, try to eat a healthy balanced diet and get enough rest. I also abstain from alcohol, drugs and other habits which would compromise my health and immune system.

I am also lucky to have a wonderful support group of family and friends.

While many of my friends in the 80s and 90s were disowned by their families for being gay and HIV positive, my family love me unconditionally and have always been in my corner.

I know how lucky I am to have their support and the support of people around the world because of my work with Dab the AIDS Bear.

The bear and I speak at AIDS Walks, AIDS Rides, conferences, health fair and other events around the world. I enjoy meeting people from many countries and am fortunate to receive so much love and support for thousands every day. We also do our yearly holiday parties for children with HIV and AIDS called Teddy Bear Touchdowns. The love and hugs I receive from the children are the best medicine in the world.

My secret for being healthy is living every day as if it is your last.

I tell those close to me I love them and share my life including my HIV status openly. By doing this, I have had so many people share their story of living with HIV with me. Being a 30 year survivor, I hope I inspire people whether they are newly diagnosed or another long term survivor.

Remember life is not a dress rehearsal and even if you have HIV or another chronic illness, you should not allow your illness to take away your dreams, hope and passion.

For more information about Dab the AIDS Bear, our Teddy Bear Touchdowns or me, check out our site.

Wishing you health, hope and happiness.

Big bear hug,
Dab Garner
Ft. Lauderdale,FL


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