Secrets, lies, drugs, healing. Robin shares her story of living with and being resilient to news of a life-threatening illness. Once she found her voice and her power, she chose advocacy. Robin shamelessly stands with persons living with HIV. Her transformative journey began at the tender age of fifteen when she acquired HIV. Upon receiving this devastating news, she spiraled into self-destructive activities as a sex worker and substance abuser. She thought her life was over. After ten years, she finally made the decision to attend a drug recovery program.
In the process of becoming sober, she learned new coping skills and strategies to deal with life. With a brand-new lease on life, Ms. Barkins regained her confidence and cultivated a healthy self-esteem.
In 2010, Ms. Barkins chose to go public with her story because she knew that her journey could have an impact on other people’s lives.
She is a Peer Re-Entry Community Health Worker at St. John’s Well Child and Family Center. Ms. Barkins manages the cases of individuals who are coming out of jail or prison and prepares them to reenter society. She follows the Whole-Person Care Model to prioritize her client’s health and mental and social well being. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at [ Ссылка ]
