Am I Alone?

[JaviHappy]

Figured my topic would get more responses here. Read the archives and couldn't find anything on this. I know meds are very expensive. I know I won't ever be able able to afford them. I'm in California. I'm not documented. Practically been here my whole life. Is there any chance any of the many programs available would help a person like me? Are these programs only available to legal residents/citizens? I've yet to call any for the fear of having the phone slammed on me.

My health hasn't been the best lately. And 'm guessing its my immune system's way of saying It needs help. I believe I was infected in 2010. I tested positive in one of those anonymous testing places just recently. In 2010 I had a broken condom during insertive sex with a male. I have been bisexual for many years. Haven't had that many partners. I'm 100% sure I can pinpoint my seroconversion to August of 2010. I had a brief flu that included a rash, headaches, terrible sore throat, and general malaise. Broken condom and my brief sickness. Haven't had anything but safe sex ever since.
 
I work odd jobs. There's no way I'd ever be able to afford any meds. Sometimes I feel like I have just to ride it out till I die. I have a son. I want to see him grow up. I want to do what's necessary to take control of my health. I also can't go back to my country of origin. The only family I have is here. My son is here.  My legal situation in this country makes my mental health even worse. Can you guys point me in the right direction? Sorry for the mini essay. Just needed to say it aloud. I have nobody to talk to. No support system whatsoever. Been dealing with this alone.

[Tonny2]

 8)Hi javihappy, welcome, I'm sorry I don't have an answer, but I'm sure someone here will know something that might help you. It 's good that you are practicing safe sex, welcome again. you will be fine. ok

[Jeff G]

Hi Javi . I encourage you to make an appointment at an ASO and ask to see a social worker to discuss your financial situation and the fact that you are lacking the proper documents to get what you need . I'm thinking you can get help with your medications but haven't been able to find out with the quick search I did . A social worker most likely will be able to guide you .

Also ... I'm moving this thread to the Insurance and Benefits forum . Perhaps if you send a pm to JR Gabbard the moderator he can advise you about what your rights are on this matter .

[JaviHappy]

Hi Javi . I encourage you to make an appointment at an ASO and ask to see a social worker to discuss your financial situation and the fact that you are lacking the proper documents to get what you need . I'm thinking you can get help with your medications but haven't been able to find out with the quick search I did . A social worker most likely will be able to guide you .

Also ... I'm moving this thread to the Insurance and Benefits forum . Perhaps if you send a pm to JR Gabbard the moderator he can advise you about what your rights are on this matter .

Thanks. Sorry for putting this topic in the wrong place.

[JaviHappy]

8)Hi javihappy, welcome, I'm sorry I don't have an answer, but I'm sure someone here will know something that might help you. It 's good that you are practicing safe sex, welcome again. you will be fine. ok

Thanks. I only added the safe sex thing because it would mean the only time I had a risky encounter was in 2010. Didn't mean I've only started having safe sex since I found out. I should also say safer sex. Again, thank you for the welcome.

[mitch777]

welcome javi!
while i won't be of much help on your situation, i know you will find the answers to get you past the feeling of being alone.
the support here has meant the world to me.
hang in and don't be shy in asking whatever questions you may have.
m.

[Miss Philicia]

http://www.poz.com/articles/Illegal_Deportation_HIV_2666_21243.shtml

[JaviHappy]

http://www.poz.com/articles/Illegal_Deportation_HIV_2666_21243.shtml

Thank you very much.

[JaviHappy]

welcome javi!
while i won't be of much help on your situation, i know you will find the answers to get you past the feeling of being alone.
the support here has meant the world to me.
hang in and don't be shy in asking whatever questions you may have.
m.

Thanks for the welcome. Definitely won't be shy.

[JaviHappy]

Hello. Can anyone help me with one last question? I have yet to call an ASO. Been doing so much reading. Let's say I am able to get some help from ADAP,  then later try to get a green card, will I be considered a burden? Is ADAP considered a public benefit?  I know I may be getting ahead of myself, but all this is so hard. I'm just trying to gather as Mich information as I can.
Thanks.

[mikejh]

Hi, when you apply for a Green Card you need to do a medical inclusive HIV test.
Here in New York there are a lot of undocumented that get their medications free, I don't think it's ADAP that pay. It's also a organization that calls gay mens health crisis that have lawyer that can help with applications.

[BT65]

Hi,  I work at an ASO and have some undocumented clients.  They  receive their meds at no cost, through ADAP, or through the state high risk insurance, which will be transitioning to ADAP once the new healthcare law goes through. 

I do have a couple clients who became citizens after testing positive.  They both used lawyers in the Chicago area.  We really don't do immigration work at our ASO, other than getting people into care who are not documented, which we have quite a few of.

My client who has ADAP for her Atripla is getting medical care at a local low cost clinic.  In order for her to get ADAP I had to get a letter notarized that stated her address and income, since a person usually has to prove these to get ADAP.  At least in Indiana. By the way, we've had clients who have had a citizen claim them on a tax form, to prove address and income.  All the citizen has had to do is print out a tax form and fill it out; then I copy it and send it in.  Don't know if this is an option where you are, but it could be.  Also, clients have used utility bills to prove residency.

I agree, call an ASO asap.  They will be able to help you if they are worth their weight.