Charles Sanchez and Kalee Garland at USCHA, September 4

I’ll be posting soon about my experience at USCHA in DC last week, which was overwhelming in all the best ways. A highlight was meeting Kalee Garland in person, who was wearing a dandelion hat.

Charles Sanchez was schmoozing with Gwenn when Kalee approached—it was magic, as Charles, Kalee and I had predicted this greeting one week earlier and this wonderful four-person group hug. 

A truly magical start to our USCHA experience. 

Oh, and Kalee’s fashion choice represented more than just amazing fashion sense: a “dandelion” is someone who was born with HIV.

Also known as Lifetime Survivors.

Ieshia Scott of Dandelions, Inc at USCHA, Sept 4, 2025

That was the first thing I learned at USCHA. Thanks to the initial introduction by way of hat and heart, I attended Ieshia Scott’s (of Dandelions Inc.) session about the unique healthcare needs of those born with HIV. Among them is the dramatic descrepencies some people face when transitioning from pediatric HIV care to adult care. Like, for instance, unapproved or undiscussed med changes.

After the session I chatted with Grazell Howard from the Black AIDS Institute about Hydeia Broadbent’s contributions to HIV/AIDS awareness came up, and how her place in AIDS history must be preserved. For many households, Hydeia’s face was the first they associated with HIV. In my opinion as someone with hemophilia, she is the Ryan White of dandelions. Her heart, bravery and message are timeless, and shouldn’t just fade with the times.

OK, thank you for hanging with me. Did I mention writing is hard? Oh, and are all dandelions born with flawless fashion sense? And speaking of history makers, Kalee is making some this weekend.

She will be participating in and representing dandelions at Fashion Week as part of HIV Unwrapped. Saturday, September 13th. Here’s what GLAAD has to say about the US debut of HIV Unwrapped:

"The renowned fashion, science and activism event HIV Unwrapped is set to have its U.S. debut at New York Fashion Week on Saturday, September 13 at Nexus Club New York.

Presented by +Life, a multi-media brand dedicated to eliminating HIV stigma, the show pairs emerging Parsons School of Design students with leading HIV scientists to create couture inspired by molecular science, resilience, and community. The electrifying, choreographed runway will also spotlight the lived experiences of people living with HIV and those working to end the epidemic.

Following acclaimed editions in Australia, Rwanda, and the UK, the U.S. debut is presented in partnership with GLAAD, ASHM, EqualPride, and CFDA, with design mentorship from Tanner Fletcher."

And, Kalee, you got this! This late bloomer—and so many people with HIV who can’t step out in their own lives for various reasons—will be tipping their hats to you this weekend.

Positively Yours,

Shawn

Get more info about HVI Unwrapped and tickets here!