One of the great New Year’s Day traditions is the Rose Parade in Pasadena. It’s quite a spectacle, with beautiful floats and marching bands. I have great memories of seeing the parade in person as a child, having grown up in Southern California.
Over the years, organizations such as the American Lung Association, the American Cancer Society, and American Heart Association have had floats in the parade, many of them winning awards for their beauty and message. But this year, for the first time, a float raising awareness of the AIDS epidemic was a part of the Tournament of Roses Parade. Sponsored by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, the float paid tribute to the late Dame Elizabeth Taylor, for her efforts to educate the public about HIV/AIDS. It seemed especially appropriate in that it was just thirty years ago that the AIDS virus was first identified.
And really, more than ever, education about AIDS is sorely needed. People have become lax about it, and infections are on the rise once again. And unfortunately, funding for education, prevention, and treatment has seen a significant decrease.
This is why I have committed for a second year, to participate in the NorCal AIDS Cycle, a 330 mile, four day bike ride to raise funds for local agencies engaged in the fight against AIDS. I have made a goal of raising $5,000 this year, and though I have gotten off to a good start, I have a long way to go before the ride happens in May.
Won’t you join the team and show your support?? Click the link below to be taken to my fundraising page to make a donation. And remember, no contribution is too small, and every little bit helps!
Click here to donate to NorCal AIDS Cycle 2012!
