Courtney Brame finds the positive in HERPES.

Why talk about herpes in a show about aging? Because it’s so common! You DEFINITELY know someone with a cold sore, if that someone isn't you. According to the WHO “An estimated 3.7 billion people under age 50 (67%) globally have herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection, the main cause of oral  herpes.”  Then, what does this mean for those of us already in our 50s and beyond, those understanding their Agelust through expanding their experience, maybe divorce, or dating? The question is how can we even reframe herpes as a gift, one not offered or asked for, but rather one that helps to bring one closer to one's body, to their nervous system.  With this 'gift', Courtney Brame has taken it and turned it into a positive impact on the world.  Courtney W. Brame is a sexual and mental health advocate for people struggling with their positive herpes status. Diagnosed with the virus himself in 2013, he stumbled through the stigma from all sides, including communication with health care providers, potential sexual partners, family, friends, and most importantly — his relationship with himself. This was brought to light in 2017 when Courtney began researching herpes groups, only to find others struggling with their diagnosis to the point of expressing suicide ideation. This led to the weekly interviews on his podcast, Something Positive for Positive People, which is now a 501c3 nonprofit organization that offers donation-based mentorship, and community, along with free support resources for people navigating all aspects of herpes stigma.  To work with Courtney Brame check out Something Positive for Positive People and support the work of SPFPP Mark your calendar for May 23, 2024, for the virtual SPFPP Conference.  Please like follow, share, and leave a review on all of the podcast platforms.  You can also follow me on IG @agelust.co or check out www.agelust.co Check out  Terri Warren’s Updated Herpes Handbook  https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/herpes-simplex-virus www.cdc.gov/std/herpes/stdfact-herpes-detailed.htm A LITTLE MORE INFO: Herpes has been around for millions of years, humans gave it to the Neanderthals along with stomach ulcers. Moderna is working on a vaccine and you can be part of their trial. Think of that next time you hear "Tale as old as time" from Beauty & the Beast. Moderna Vaccine for HSV trial .