Group Update!

Hello Everyone!

I'm just following up as I said I would about meeting with the other group members. Although last week was very busy, I was able to meet with the group to discuss the progress so far and present some of what I had been working on. Everyone has been busy coding, coding, and re-coding trying to make sure there is nothing that is being looked over or missed within the one-on-one interviews. I was able to present my outline for the power point presentation to present to the participants. It is also confirmed that there will be focus groups next month (November). I plan to, at all costs, join the group on at least one of the focus groups. I realize there is a lot to be done with the presentation and preparing for the focus groups, but I am up for the challenge and the learning experience. One MAJOR theme throughout the meeting was the amount of passion that is within each of the group members working on this research. Even with everything they have to do or work on they find time to put into this research and remain patient/participant focused. Again, any feedback is welcomed!

I also mentioned to the group that I have this blog for women affected with HIV, Cervical Cancer, or both to check out and learn about research being done. The more I learn about HIV and Cervical Cancer, the more I become inspired to make a difference within my community. It is amazing to work with individuals as passionate about this topic and improving patient communication and care, specifically for women.

That was a great end to my week and I look forward to meeting with my mentor to discuss the dates for the focus groups and the rest of the semester. In the meantime, I will be working on my poster that I will present at the end of the semester. Wish me luck!
-Lauren Williams