This event is important to me because the money raised goes to help people living with HIV/AIDS. People who need food, wellness care, peer support or just to be in a place that is welcoming and safe for them.
My advocacy to support HIV/AIDS started when I was in my 20s, a very close friend of mine was diagnosed with HIV/AIDs and Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML), a life threatening disease that affects immunocompromised individuals.
It’s organizations like PWA and government programs that provided him with the support he needed. Volunteering with organizations such as ACAS and ACT allowed me to not only educate myself but also show my friend that he matters.
So,
I am doing this ride to spread awareness, compassion and community.
I am doing this ride to combat stigma and misinformation surrounding HIV/AIDS.
I am doing this ride to support and encourage resiliency in the people we love.