BEHIV's Massage Therapy Bar Day

Better Existence with HIV ( BEHIV ) Massage Therapy Bar Day to benefit its Massage Therapy program. This annual Bar Day includes activities such as raffle drawings and drink/shot specials. The 2009 Bar Day is Sunday, September 20, from 3:00-6:00 at Big Chicks, Crew, The Glenwood, Ravenswood Pub and Touche, with the wrap-up at Star Gaze from 6:00-8:00, including food and karaoke. 30% of people with HIV suffer from neuropathy. The pain, which can include burning feet, tingling hands and numb toes, is often so bad that sufferers scramble to piece together scant relief from topical creams and pill. Some neuropathy is caused by the virus itself, while other cases are from medication side effects. Massage therapy is a restorative health option for individuals dealing with neuropathy. It helps alleviate neuropathy pain and discomfort, eases mental and emotional stress and depression, boosts immune system function and increases T-cells. Because BEHIV does not charge for its massage services, individuals who lack financial resources are still able to receive the benefits of this program. Despite the benefits of massage therapy for people living with HIV/AIDS, federal funding for massage therapy has been eliminated. However, BEHIV is committed to continue providing this very important service.