DEAR IZZIE,

My best friend is going to Thailand to work in an AIDS orphanage. I want to support her, but I’m not really sure how to. I’m afraid she’ll come back HIV+ or have more complex issues emotionally.

She’s asked me to come with her, but I don’t think it’s “for me”. Like many in America, I have been comfortable in the knowledge the crisis is a world away.

In general I am a very giving person, but I balk at this. I am not against in it theory it’s just when it comes to executing it, actually going.

What’s wrong with me?

SIGNED, UNSURE IN FLORIDA

DEAR UNSURE,

It’s possible that you are nervous about this because you don’t know much about it. Maybe you could do some research to alleviate your fears. A wonderful source is TheBody.com for information about HIV/AIDS. For information about how it affects countries abroad, I’d try Avert.org.

Being concerned about someone you care about is perfectly normal. You should discuss your fears with your friend.

Going abroad to help with the AIDS effort isn’t for everyone. You could start by volunteering with your local AIDS organization, or if you’re not exactly ready for that, join a group on Myspace to get your bearings.

Good luck!