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Mike Fox's gripping journey from childhood trauma to HIV diagnosis to nonprofit leader offers a testament to the transformative power of purpose. Diagnosed with HIV in 1994 when it was still considered a death sentence, Mike initially spiraled deeper into substance abuse—a path that led to multiple prison sentences and nearly cost him everything. His story reveals how trauma, addiction, and infectious disease can intertwine in devastating ways.

The conversation takes us through Mike's evolution from hiding his diagnosis to becoming a powerful advocate who proudly declares, "I'm grateful to be HIV positive." This startling statement makes sense as he explains how his condition led to his life's purpose—helping others overcome the same fears and misinformation that once controlled him.

Most compelling is Mike's explanation of the revolutionary "U=U" (Undetectable equals Untransmittable) campaign. This scientifically proven concept has transformed HIV from a feared death sentence to a manageable condition. Today, with proper medication, people living with HIV can maintain normal lifespans and cannot sexually transmit the virus when their viral load is undetectable.

The Fox Project Foundation now works throughout Oklahoma's treatment centers, providing education and testing services for HIV, Hepatitis C, and syphilis. Mike's approach has proven remarkably effective—while standard testing events might reach 20-40% of treatment center residents, his personal testimony typically inspires 60-80% participation rates. By meeting people where they are—physically in treatment centers and emotionally through shared lived experience—he's breaking down barriers that have kept many from accessing life-saving care.

Listen to discover how a man who once planned his suicide upon diagnosis now saves lives daily, turning his darkest moment into his greatest strength. Mike's vision of connecting every treatment center with regular infectious disease testing represents a crucial step toward ending these epidemics once and for all.

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From Rock Bottom to Rock Solid.

We all have them...every single day, we wake up, we have the chance to make new choices.

We have the power to make our own daily, "Breakfast of Choices"

Resources and ways to connect:

Facebook: Jo Summers
Instagram: @Summersjol
Facebook Support: Chance For Change Women’s circle

Website: Breakfastofchoices.com

Urbanedencmty.com (Oklahoma Addiction and Recovery Resources) Treatment, Sober Living, Meetings. Shout out to the founder, of this phenomenal website... Kristy Da Rosa!

National suicide prevention and crisis, hotline number 988

National domestic violence hotline:
800–799–7233

National hotline for substance abuse, and addiction:
844–289–0879

National mental health hotline:
866–903–3787

National child health and child abuse hotline:
800–422-4453 (1.800.4.A.CHILD)

CoDa.org
12. Step recovery program for codependency.

National Gambling Hotline 800-522-4700