Soul Revision Blog™: AIDS Walk San Diego 2010 recap

This isn't even all of the walkers

This years AIDS Walk was a HUGE success! We had over 8,000 participants which was an increase from last years walk! It's ALWAYS good to see so many people open their hearts and help someone in need. I have to especially highlight two groups that continue to impress me with their level of community involvement.

My jobs booth that I set-up

SDSU's African Student Union (ASU) and SDSU's National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) showed up at 430am to volunteer to work the event AND walk! This is a group of young adult college students, what a great way to demonstrate leadership!!! THANK YOU for your support!

I would also like to thank two VERY SPECIAL individuals; Ms. Jackie and Chad Nevilles for their gracious donation to my AIDS Walk page. You all have helped save lives, from the bottom of my heart I thank you!

Veronica and her mother are both HIV positive. Veronica has no idea that she is any differen from other children.

Donnie Luehring is the coordinator for this annual event and he had this to say...

"Thanks to your generous and inspiring commitment, AIDS Walk & Run San Diego will once again make a tremendous difference in the lives of thousands of San Diegans living with HIV.

Whether you walked, ran, volunteered or donated yesterday, you should know that your efforts will go a long way in supporting the HIV/AIDS service organizations that are beneficiaries of this year’s fundraising campaign. In partnership with the San Diego HIV Funding Collaborative, the funds raised from the Walk will be combined with donations from other philanthropists and foundations to qualify for matching funds to ensure that we maximize the resources generated from this year’s event.

While we are counting the money raised, please know that AIDS Walk & Run San Diego is still accepting donations through Oct. 15. Most of all, we can’t thank you enough for your time, energy and support as we work together in this fight to end HIV/AID"

Christie's Place team =)

Every year at AIDS Walk we have what's called 'The Path of Remembrance" where family members and friends that have lost a loved one from AIDS can post pictures and information about the one they lost. I decided to seize the moment and capture the information on camera to show you all why I work in HIV services, the importance of AIDS Walk and the face of HIV. HIV has been around for almost 30yrs and people STILL think they are immune to it, invisible even. The truth of the matter is, if you're having sex and/or sharing needles, you're also at risk! HIV knows no bounds! It has reached upper and middle class America, professional athletes, students, nurses, and babies. It has infected the richest of the rich and the poorest of the poor. HIV is Latino, African American, filipino, Asian etc. Be safe, get tested and encourage others to do the same!