Frank Martinez

What is your name and where are you from?

My name is Frank Martinez and I am from Los Angeles California

When did you join the ACTG? 

I got involved in 2007.

Why did you get involved with the ACTG, and what are some of the things you’ve done as a member?

I’m an advocate for HIV and TB research. My specialty is HIV, because I’ve been positive for 22 years. 

Describe your community.

I live in a low-income community.

What are the most important treatment issues to your community?

Adherence is a big issue. It can be a challenge for people to take their medications, especially our homeless community who doesn’t always have a place to keep their medications.

How do you want your work in the ACTG to be remembered?

I would love to be remembered for doing what I love: being an activist, reaching out to people who are living with HIV and trying to give them a more positive mental attitude

What are your future hopes for the ACTG and HIV research?

To end the HIV virus!