Patricia Shelton: peer educator in NYC

Patricia Shelton is a mother of three and has lived with HIV for 17 years. For the past 10 years, Pat has devoted her time as a peer educator in New York City. She began working at Harlem Dowling with Keith, her late partner of 25 years. "We both became peers--but I'll tell you one thing: do not work with your spouse! I would never do that again," she jokes.

I always wanted to be a teacher, so being a peer gives me this opportunity. I'm teaching, plus I'm reaching out and helping people.

In 2000, Pat served as a peer educator with Body Positive, making educational presentations on HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C throughout the community. Through her work as a peer, Pat has made life-long friends and developed a love for what she does. "I always wanted to be a teacher, so being a peer gives me this opportunity. I'm teaching, plus I'm reaching out and helping people."

Being a peer has opened many doors for Pat. She currently works as a peer educator at Settlement Health in the Harlem area conducting outreach and making presentations on HIV/AIDS topics. She frequently speaks at HIV/AIDS conferences on behalf of peers, something that she takes great pleasure in doing.

Pat recently participated in a documentary, Seen but not Heard, about African American women affected by HIV/AIDS. Pat participated in a PACT training last June. She recalls their unique teaching style and wealth of HIV/AIDS knowledge. "They were so up to date with the latest information. Some people are visual, some people read, and some people want to hear; they use all sights and sounds to train us."