I Strive 2 Thrive: Day 115, HIV Positive Hemophiliac on Cover of Men's Health Magazine

Friday, May 16, 2014

Day 115, HIV Positive Hemophiliac on Cover of Men's Health Magazine

I met Vaughn Ripley back at the Hemophilia Federation of America HFA annual conference, but have known him for far longer. We became friends on Facebook, and share stories of living day to day with Hemophilia and co-infection. Vaughn not represents the entire Hemophilia community, but is an advocate for HIV Awareness and a survivor of Hepatitis C having been cured some time ago. His strive for health, mental wellness and overall positive lifestyle has excelled him beyond what was initially predicted.

Vaughn needs our help, so this a call to the entire community to assist us. Vaughn is trying to land the role as cover photo on an upcoming issue of the popular "Men's Health" magazine. The famous publication is seeking the not just a common man, but one who embodies extraordinary talents, overcome insurmountable odds, and lives a notable healthy lifestyle. We have until June 15th to vote, and you can vote once a day for him. VOTE! And vote daily! The direct link is: http://www.mhguysearch.com/entry/37/.

Read Full Article on MyFoxDC.com.

1 comment:

Vaughn RipleyMay 16, 2014 at 12:22 PM
Thanks, Joe! This is a very nice post and encompasses what I'm trying to achieve... AWARENESS! You rock, brother!

-Vaughn
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About Joseph Burke

Joseph Burke is a modern day miracle, public speaker, advocate, life coach, care counselor at his local church, as well as acclaimed broadcaster and musician.

He was diagnosed with HIV at age 2, and is among a handful of the oldest survivors in the nation living with the disease for 40 plus years now. Also co-infected with Hepatitis C, Joseph lived over 30 years with the liver disease after being cured with the new drug Sovaldi in 2014.

Today, his largest hurdle is chronic pain from joint damage with permanent injuries to his right knee, both elbows and both ankles.

Everyday is an uphill battle, but the key to his ongoing perseverance is through his personal faith and tremendous love and support from his wife Alexandra - who happens to be a Registered Nurse.

Joseph may not be an athlete, but his strength is in his encouraging words, spirit and humility. Today, he carries the torch for those who've passed on from the Hemophiliac AIDS crisis of the 1980's, and educates schools, local chapters and groups on HIV, Hepatitis C and Hemophilia awareness.

He's a survivor, a miracle and a leader in the greater Central Florida region and beyond.