A hero is “a person admired for achievements and noble qualities” or “one who shows great courage,” according to Merriam-Webster. While the word can conjure childhood images of a valiant savior atop a mighty steed with sword and shield, the dictionary’s description is the perfect way to describe our Health Heroes of the Year.
Our cover star, Armonté Butler, 29, is to be admired for achievements and noble qualities — he’s truly someone who has shown great courage in the face of adversity. He has dedicated his life and career to making sexual and reproductive health care more accessible to those from marginalized communities, particularly LGBTQ+ youth, BIPOC people, and young people living with HIV.
In addition to reading about Butler and our other Health Heroes of the Year in this issue, you won't want to miss our exclusive interview with Latino singer-songwriter Christian Chavez, in which he opens up about mental health, and learn about the history AIDS/LifeCycle — a famous fundraising event that will take its final ride in 2025 after three decades of raising millions for HIV causes.
I hope reading about these people and organizations inspires you and helps you to remember that true heroes do walk among us, and are in the trenches every day, working and fighting so that we can all live healthier and happier. Scroll down to read the full issue below.
Be well,
Desirée Guerrero, Editor in Chief
