We had a planning meeting for Anguilla’s Race against AIDS today. I did not know that this meeting would result in an hour long discussion on HIV/AIDS and that I would walk out of the Optimist Clubhouse with added awareness and knowledge about HIV/AIDS. I thought I knew a lot but as I learn everyday there is always so much more to learn. Like Cancer, more and more families are being touched by HIV/AIDS but it is still less widely discussed and accepted.
World AIDS Day is on December 01, 2011. Anguilla's Race against HIV/AIDS will be held on November 26th, 2011. Race categories include the 1k, 5k, 10k and half marathon. I am encouraging each of you to get involved in the Race or in another activity which will help to bring greater awareness about this epidemic.
I am also encouraging you to take control of your personal life today. Get tested today. Don’t say yes to sex until after you and your partner have gotten tested. Use a condom every time. These are simple steps to help protect yourself and those you love.
Around us though are many people who may be HIV positive. Some we know and some we don’t. We need to continue to develop and encourage an attitude of tolerance, understanding and support for those who are infected and in the open and also for those who are afraid to come out in the open because of fear of being ostracised.
HIV/AIDS thankfully is no longer an automatic death sentence. With the right medication, a healthy lifestyle and plenty of support individuals can live a long and fruitful life.
Nevertheless, you can and should protect yourself from this disease. Abstain, use protection, get tested – simply be responsible. I encourage you to make wise, safe and healthy choices starting today.
Join motivated and passionate members of the community for the Race against AIDS on November 26th, 2011. I will be on the starting line - the girl in the black tights and Race Againt Aids T-shirt :). SET, READY, GO - See you there!
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