World AIDS Day

CASK85

I just wanted to make a little PSA regarding World AIDS day, which is observed every December 1st (today).

Although the AIDS crisis has fallen from public discussion in the US because we've been fortunate to have access to good treatments, there are still more than 30 million people worldwide living with HIV/AIDS, and more than 25 million have died since the epidemic began in the 80's. 

I think it is important to recognize these facts, even if you do nothing else today. Often times there are talks/seminars today in many places, and the President will make an oration, if you want to observe the day in these ways.

Below are a few links if you're interested in learning more or finding a place to donate if you feel like you want to (not that I'm asking you to). 

wikipedia

official World AIDS Day website

Center for Disease control website

World AIDS campaign website

PaigeMcC

Thank you for pointing this out. I think it's an important day of recognition.

Elle1036

Has anyone else read "My Pet Virus" or seen Shawn Decker speak before?

I heart him.

Blue & White

I haven't read "My Pet Virus" but I might add it to my list.  I really think this is a huge issue even though it gets swept under the rug so often in the US today.

Thanks for bringing this to our attention

heyimbren

Thanks for posting this reminder Chiano. It definitely needs to be dealt with more than it is. So heartbreaking.

A friend of mine actually has a sister and BIL who just (literally just- last week I think) moved to Malawi for 6 months on a missions trip to work with AIDS there. Pretty incredible.

CASK85

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_world-aids-day?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:b22c0aee-196b-4dad-94b3-4b0d1796e09bPost:f367dcc6-e35c-4aa4-8e23-9022e1bb8cf7">Re: World AIDS Day</a>:
[QUOTE]Thanks for posting this reminder Chiano. It definitely needs to be dealt with more than it is. So heartbreaking. <strong>A friend of mine actually has a sister and BIL who just (literally just- last week I think) moved to Malawi for 6 months on a missions trip to work with AIDS there. Pretty incredible.</strong>
Posted by heyimbren[/QUOTE]
Wow, that is awesome. I wish them luck! What an incredible commitment. <div>
</div><div>Elle, I haven't read that book. Have you (or anyone) seen/read "and the band played on"? It chronicles the early years of the AIDS epidemic, and it really heartbreaking and inspiring. <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0106273/" rel="nofollow">http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0106273/</a></div>

bsidebella

Thank you for posting this. As a former member of my college's GSA, we always took time out to remember for World AIDS Day. We tied red ribbons around trees, we held candlelit vigils and we were even lucky enough one year to have a display of the AIDS quilts.

In 2006, I was part of a team that brought Broadway actor Anthony Rapp (Rent) to our school to give a lecture about AIDS awareness and the little things we can do to help. Unfortunately, also in 2006 I lost a college friend to an AIDS related illness.

I know I'll be wearing my red ribbon on my jacket today!

CASK85

Bside - I'm so sorry for your loss. And thank you for your work spreading AIDS awareness. I've got my pin on today too. 

bourgehm

Thanks for posting this!  Good reminder to pray for this during the day today (and every day).

bsidebella

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/special-topic-wedding-boards_not-engaged-yet_world-aids-day?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Special%20Topic%20Wedding%20BoardsForum:136Discussion:b22c0aee-196b-4dad-94b3-4b0d1796e09bPost:06b8aa20-12b7-46ee-839e-947367459e58">Re: World AIDS Day</a>:
[QUOTE]Bside - I'm so sorry for your loss. And thank you for your work spreading AIDS awareness. I've got my pin on today too. 
Posted by cschiano[/QUOTE]

Thanks =) He was a good guy, it's hard to believe he's been gone 4 years. But he was very sick at the end, so it was almost a relief when we (the GSA) heard he'd passed. I wear my ribbon every year for him and everyone else who is effected.

bsidebella

Also, cs, if you don't mind, I'd like to add another charity to your list for those who'd like to donate if they want to.

http://www.broadwaycares.org/

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS an amazing organization who do so much for not only those in the entertainment community who are affected, but to anyone else in need. They provide medical care and housing for those with HIV/AIDS who cannot or can no longer afford it, as well as promote and increase understanding and support.

CFar13

I work at Starbucks and for World AIDS day today, 5 cents will be donated for every beverage purchased. So if you want to do something for World AIDS day, head to your local Starbucks!