Art For Life Auction Benefits AIDS Resource Center

The AIDS Resource Center Ohio’s new Medical Center & Pharmacy won’t just be about medication, it will help patients cope with their diagnosis.

Dr. Michael Para said that HIV infections are rising in central Ohio in part because patients delay treatment.

“They’re so shaken by this, they just don’t want to deal with it,” Para said.

The New Medical Center & Pharmacy in the Short North will be about taking care of those who are coping with HIV and AIDS. It is slated to open Sept. 24.

Jamie Rutan said that support is the key. She’s one face of HIV in Columbus.

Rutan said that the news came as a shock but she learned that education and support has allowed her to live her life.

“As long as you take care of yourself, it’s not a death sentence,” Rutan said.

Para said that the message is something he wants to share with future patients.

“When you open the doors, the message isn’t just going to be get treated here. It’s going to be come in and get tested,” Para said.

Risk reduction is another part of the center’s goal.

Artist Rick Orewiler has helped the center open thanks in part to his art, which will be auctioned as part of the Art For Life fundraiser on Sept. 22.

“This is a painting I did of Wells Street in Chicago,” Orewiler said. “It’s great to know what this building is being used for a great cause.”

Orewiler’s work will be part of an auction to benefit the new center.

Tickets for Art For Life are still available and can be purchased by clicking here.

Watch 10TV News and refresh 10TV.com for more information.