HypnoticDC

I moved to the DC area at the very end of September 2008. My first weekend in the area was AIDS walk weekend.  I was excited that I was going to get to be involved in an event that I have participated in so many times back in Minnesota. I got signed up on a team and made an online donation. However, as excited as I was, nothing could prepare me for the impact of seeing the crowds of people that showed up to walk. It was an amazing and inspiring sight.

As we all walked along the route, I noticed the great diversity of the people that were participating. It was overwhelming at times to see the signs and t-shirts that were in memory of a lost loved one. Those lost loved ones were just as diverse as the crowd. HIV/AIDS has no preferences. The fight against it is everyone’s fight.

I also noticed a few of the men and women infected with HIV who were there. I would not have known or suspected had it not been for the statement on their shirts or signs. The one I remember simply said, “HIV positive”. They were walking, like I was, in support of finding a cure and for raising funds to help provide medical care for those who are in need. If asked, I’m sure their accounts of the walk would be much more personal.

The fight against HIV/AIDS should be very personal for everyone. And, there is no better time than the present to stand up and walk! AIDS Walk Washington is just a few weeks away. I look forward to marking my one year anniversary in DC with my second AIDS Walk DC. Hopefully, you have either joined a team or have made a donation. If not, you still have time to join a team, make your own team or just donate. Truly, one of the most gratifying things we can do is to spend time in the service of others. Why not have fun and help others at the same time? I hope to see you on the walk!

AIDS Walk Washington is Saturday, October 3^rd, 2009

Pennsylvania Avenue and 13th Street, NW

For more info, registration or to donate: http://www.aidswalkwashington.org

Originally posted on The Washington Blade September 14, 2009