On the island of Karuna* in the virtual world of Second Life, a small group of avatars is sitting on stumps around a crackling campfire.  Like most avatars, they are each exceptionally attractive. Buff bodies, voluptuous curves, and intricate tattoos abound. Clothing is decidedly stylish, and the only hairs out of place are calculated fashion statements. 

What makes these avatars unique, however, is that they part of a small but growing number of people dealing with HIV/AIDS who have come to Second Life to explore and find sources of community and support.  Today's topic is HIV testing and the upcoming "Healing Quest" designed to encourage SL residents to learn their HIV status by getting tested.

This month's quest is entitled "TESTED," and is being held in collaboration with AIDS.gov and its partners as part of the events surrounding HIV Testing day on June 27th.  TESTED will begin at midnight on Thursday, June 4th and continue through midnight on Thursday, June 25th.  Each Thursday a new clue that asks participants to consider some aspect of how life “tests” us all will be posted on both Karuna and Storybook Island.

Those who complete all four parts of the Quest can submit the results to the story competition being held as part of the event.  Winners will be announced and an awards ceremony held in the early part of July.  All participants will have the option of having their stories shared in Karuna's Garden of Experience and the Poetry/Story Garden and Gallery on Storybook.

To get to Karuna please use the SLURL below:
http://slurl.com/secondlife/Karuna/60/106/26

For more information, please contact Jenaia Morane inworld or at Jenaia@karunahiv.com.

*Karuna is a word from Pali, and ancient language of India, and means to ease suffering.