Inspiration Hub

Read about what inspired us to join the diverse PHACS community of medical professionals, community group members, caregivers, participants, research support, and technical support - and what inspires us in our work every day. 

What does it mean to you to be part of PHACS?

“I believe in my heart to be part of this organization is to be a part of History! I also believe that the research and the progress we are doing not only change lives now but what we now will create changes for the Healthcare in the future! Please continue to be a voice for the voiceless, even when our capes get torn has a little is still will continue to shine bright when we're doing our jobs! Keep up the good work all”  - Kimbrae Sanders

"PHACS means for me that the children and young adults for whom I have provided care for most of my professional life will continue to be monitored for potential long-term complications." 

 “It gives me a sense of connectedness to a group of colleagues with a shared mission, working with an inspirational and resilient population I care about so deeply”  - Megan Wilkins

“PHACS showcases how folks from all walks of life can commit to, and work with each other to make really good things happen!” - Murli Purswani

“Understanding HIV and researching prevention of transmission is essential to finally ending this epidemic, saving lives, reducing stigma and restoring pride to PLWHIV” - Karina Casco

“Being part of PHACS means I am a member of a team committed to learning how to improve the health and well-being of those affected by perinatal HIV” Elizabeth McFarland

 “I am watching my second generation of clients live healthy lives. Its wonderful to be evaluating a healthy baby and turn to her mother and say, "I did this evaluation with you when you were a year old." Robin E. McEvoy

“PHACS is a commitment to evidence-based research, diversity & inclusion, & to improving the lives of people impacted by the HIV epidemic.”

“I love working in such a wonderfully collaborative network comprised of people who care for each other and the work they produce” Denise Jacobson

 “Being part of PHACS means working in a meaningful and collaborative environment every single day!” Haleigh Snyder

“It means to be part of a strong, resilient, and passionate community, that is taking steps towards improving the lives of individuals and families impacted by HIV” Denise Lee

“Being part of an amazing community that provides support, help, and encouragement!”

 “For me, working with PHACS means being part of a community where you learn new information or a new perspective from nearly every meeting, where you feel supported personally and professionally, and where you can feel that the work you contribute is meaningful, not only personally but, more importantly, to a larger community” - Renee Smith

“Having cared for and supported people living with HIV since the early 90's, I am grateful that the PHACS network continues to focus on a research agenda that is participant focused and driven by those who work with people living with and affected by HIV on a day-to-day basis. Many of us have seen the face of HIV change over time and know there is still so much work left to do. PHACS team members are steadfast in their desire to examine, explore, and be creative agents for change in our world”  - Emily Barr

What inspires you in your work?

"Everyone always learns something new at every [network] meeeting and becomes empowered one way or another! What inspires me every day is watching the achievements of the patients and CAB members at the clinic after atteding support groups, conferences, and CAB meetings. Knowing that something that was said or discussed could change someone's life for the better is very rewarding!" - CAB Member

"My research colleagues inspire me every day. Their hard work and dedication to PHACS and other research study networks is motivating." - Study Coordinator 

"I am inspired in my work by the dramatic improvement in quality of life that HIV/AIDS patients have experienced in the last few decades of HIV research. To know that research like ours can have a direct impact on the lives of individuals battling HIV is an inspiration to do the highest quality work possible."

What keeps you going on bad days?

"Knowing that our results can improve the health of not only our study subjects, but also others in a similar situation." - Brad Karalius, Research Analyst 

"The workload of juggling different protocols can feel exhausting. It is my co-workers who keep me going on bad days. Study coordinators in my team are professionals who respect each other and are always willing to help out in whatever is needed to meet our research objectives." - Study Coordinator 

"Knowing that I'm not alone and have the support of my team keeps me going." 

"Being a part of PHACS means that I contribute to the advancement of HIV/AIDS research, and the improvement in quality of life for adolescents and young adults living with HIV. It means that I am, in a very small way, making a difference in someone's life, even if they aren't aware of it. It means that tomorrow might be a little bit better for a teenager living with HIV."  

"I get motivation and inspiration working with a great team of people who are devoted to promoting PHACS to people in both the medical field and in the community." 

"It's meaningful for me to be part of a professionally diverse team collaborating towards a common goal."

"I am extremely honored to be a part of the project. Seeing the progress of our studies (main and substudies), patient involvement, and staff dedication is very rewarding." - Monitor and Protocol Specialist 

"Being part of PHACS means I'm part of a huge family! The PHACS CAB is like my immediate family and the PHACS network is definitely the extended family. I always feel happy and acccepted when I come to this meetings because most people, if not everyone, knows my name. I really enjoy getting to know everyone at PHACS and it's even better when we add new 'family members' to the table." - CAB Member