Do you remember where you were and what you were doing when you first heard of HIV/AIDS? I remember I was in high school at the time. I overheard a conversation about it and didn't think much of it. Then all of a sudden it was everywhere - on the news, in the paper - this epidemic that no one knew much about, but it was killing thousands of people right here in America.

For several years I knew "IT" was out there. "IT" was something that my parents and teachers didn't talk about back then. My ignorance led me to believe that because I wasn't the "stereotypical victim" that I was safe from dying from AIDS.

When I was living in Florida, I had friends that were involved with the local AIDS organization. I volunteered my services with the organization and learned so much more about HIV/AIDS. In learning more I gained a greater compassion for those affected by the disease and an admiration for their courage. Most importantly, I have a great passion to help raise awareness and educate others that we all need to be responsible for our actions. There ARE steps that we can take to avoid infection of HIV. We need to take these steps and we need to educate our children.

Recently I accepted a position with AIDS Community Services of WNY. I am proud that I have the opportunity to help this organization. On May 30th I will be walking the AIDS Walk at Delaware Park. I hope you will join me and several others as we come together to create awareness and raise critical dollars for the thousands in Western New Yorkers that are affected by HIV.

Thank you for visiting my fundraising page!

Donating through this website is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to support my fundraising efforts.

Many thanks for your support -- and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!