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LAGLC Logo Thomas Rollerson's
AIDS/LifeCycle Homepage

Michael and I are riding to end AIDS

THANK YOU TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS,

WE HAVE EXCEEDED OUR GOAL AND COMPLETED THE RIDE!!

IF YOU STILL WANT TO SUPPORT, PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL ME FIRST RE: NEXT YEARS RIDE!

 

My belated partner, Timm, died of AIDS in 1994 at the age of 36. As did millions of others that we will never forget.
 
It was a horrific disease. I watched my strong and gallant partner of 9 years succumb to a ruthless enemy. Back then, we were ill-equipped to fight the disease, as protease inhibitors were not yet available. Even today, revisiting the inflictions of this illness open painful wounds. And although AIDS physically took Timm, his spirit is still with me each and every day.

But I will never forget the unexpected gifts that came from this painful time—the gift of the profound love we discovered in each other in those final years; the gift of a life’s mission to make dreams come true for thousands of others; the gift of a community who rallied their support. All these gifts live with me today.

Three years after Timm’s death I made my first AIDS Ride in 1997. Blessed with the physical ability to do so, I rode with Timm’s photo taped on my bike and the name of each donor listed on my helmet. I remember my heart feeling rich with pride, empowerment, gratitude, honor, and a fierce commitment to honor those we had lost—and those still in the midst of their battle with AIDS.  I will never forget those who supported my ride, thank you!

Since my first ride I have been blessed beyond anything I could have ever imagined.
My health has been strong, and I’ve been twice blessed in this life with love from my partner, Michael—a man confident enough, kind enough, and giving enough to always allow me to remember and respect my loss.

Now, a decade later and with Michael’s encouragement, we are doing the California AIDS Ride once again. For one week I’ll step away momentarily from my primary hearts focus on end-of-life care with Dream Foundation to make a difference in the AIDS epidemic.

In the USA, 2 million people struggle daily with the physical, financial and emotional challenges of living with HIV and AIDS. Worldwide, over 33 million people have been infected and affected by the AIDS virus including millions of orphaned children. We will not forget.

Its never easy to ask for support, but we know that so many of you want to show your support to our efforts and share our concern towards AIDS. No amount is too small!

THANK YOU !!!!!!!!

Thomas

You are invited to the closing ceremonies at the VA Center in LA on June 7, an incredible experience for those of you that want to welcome the 6000+ riders back from our journey!! We will host a private gathering that evening for our supporters...more to come!

 

 

 

 

 

Dream Team Sends us off with love
Dream Team Sends us off with love
Thomas' Goal: $30,000.00
Current Total: $32,990.00
Make A DonationSupport Thomas:
Make a Donation

Messages of Support for Thomas

Robert and Chris (6/06/08 9:54PM): Hi boys,

We passed by the Ventura Coast and saw the memorial lights tonight. Angelo's boyfriend and their girlfriend are riding too and they showered at our house today. We enjoyed hearing their stories. Congratulations on a great ride!!

Bruce Weinberg (6/06/08 10:17AM): Tom, you are something else! I'm coming up tonight with a friend for the candlelight ceremony and here you are on the homepage as a top fundraiser...amazing!

You're quite the role model--hoping you guys have had a great time, and congrats on another success! One of your minion, Bruce

eileen sweeney (6/04/08 9:12AM): You go, guys! So proud of you! I hope that you have had fun in the midst of the hard work you are doing. Wish I could be with you when you ride in to LA!

YOU ARE MY HEROES!!!!!!!!

katie (6/04/08 1:39AM): I am so proud of you both.

Mary (6/03/08 7:44PM): Hi Tom! I'm thinking of you, wishing you strong tailwinds and no mechanicals. I'll stop by the park when you hit Ventura!

Stephen Fountain (6/03/08 2:19PM): Dear Thomas & Michael, Thinking of you guys...and congrats to you, Thom for raising so much money for such a great cause. Keep on truckin!! Love, Stephen

Jeff Levinson (6/02/08 8:33PM): Thinking of you out there cycling away for the cause. You guys are the greatest and my heart goes out to you. Sending bear hugs and cool breezes and happy energy your way. Lots of Love!!!!!

Teresa (6/02/08 10:14AM): Thomas & Michael

You guys rock.....you are both very inspiring to all those around you. Your commitment and dedication to your cause is awesome and I wish you both a safe and rewarding journey. Love you.......TD

jamie (6/02/08 8:10AM): Hey Tommy and Michael I am emailing you to wish you guys do a good job in the race. Have fun on the ride!we love you

love Jamie Rollerson

jamie (6/02/08 8:08AM): Hey Tommy and Michael I am emailing you to wish you guys do a good job in the race. Have fun on the ride!we love you

love Jamie Rollerson

Tom Livermore (6/01/08 3:37PM): This one is from me, Thom. Scott & I donated to Michael and then I read you are almost #1 in contributions.. HAD to help you out... You da bomb and I am immensely proud and honored to call you a dear friend.....XOXO T

Tim and Tony (5/30/08 6:35PM): We're so very proud of you both and love you both dearly--more so than either of you likely even know. We'll be thinking of you this coming week and will hold Timm in our hearts, too, especially while you ride.

xo...Tim and Tony

Rob Hancock/Bob Swartz (5/30/08 2:24PM): Hey Thomas: We just wanted to take a moment out and say that we are so very much thinking of you. Just when we thought our Florida AIDS ride was bad-ass at 308 miles in three days, you have to go and do yours! You continue to amaze us with your strength and commitment; what a hero you are to so many, many people. Right now, close your eyes and just let that thought soak in. YOU ARE LOVED AND ADMIRED

May you have the best weather and only tailwinds along your journey..we're with you every mile of the way! xoox, Rob and Bob (in Fort Lauderdale)

kerrie kilpatrick-weinberg (5/30/08 9:45AM): Hi Tom, good luck with the ride, just returned from Europe, and about to ride my bike out to Elwood!!!! Kerrie Kilpatrick-Weinberg

Riva (5/29/08 6:16PM): I'm so glad that you are not posting the messages because this gives me a chance to say what has been on my mind since seeing your photos: YaaaaaaaaaWOW!!! What a couple of hot young studs you are! I just love a man in bike shorts!! Man, you guys look sooooooooooo GREAT. You look marvelous, darlings! Have a wonderful time. Love you, Riva

Kerry (5/29/08 4:48PM): I will be thinking of you both with so much love in my heart and pride that you are doing this! A remarkable journey and my hope is that the two of you, together, will be stronger than one and create a beautiful memory that is sure to last a lifetime. My thoughts and prayers will be with you! All my love, Kerry

Clark (5/29/08 9:41AM): I'm proud of you Thomas!

Rick & Neil (5/29/08 9:17AM): Tom & Michael We are proud of your daily actions to stand up and make a difference, and represent & ride for all of us who can't. Oh and don't forget the sun block and the bandaids....Looking foward to our next time together to hear all the adventures... Love Rick & Neil

John Zaffarano & Tom Davila (5/29/08 8:53AM): Hi Guys! Good luck! We have several friends that will be joining you on the Ride, and hope it's a safe and memorable journey.

Love, John and Tom

Nora (5/28/08 7:59PM): I am with you and Michael in spirit applauding your Herculean effort and blowing you kisses all the while. I wish I was on a bicycle persuing the two of you, what an amazing view! I'm certain the sight of you gorgeous and fit men/angels will incite the quickened pedalling of many a LifeCycler! Be safe, have an absolute blast and call when you come home so that we can celebrate and Michael and I can be amazed by and oggle your defined muscle tone.XOXO

ME (5/28/08 10:07AM): Thanks for all the messages of support, it's overwhelming really! It feels odd/embarrasing to post them, so I'm printing them out for us to take with us on the ride.

Beside, I think I should be the one saying how PROUD I AM OF YOU!!! LOOK WHAT WE'VE DONE TOGETHER FOR THOSE LIVING & DYING FROM AIDS. I'm SO PROUD OF YOU!!!

Jen Finnigan & Jonny Silverman (5/28/08 1:01AM): Hey guys!! We wish you all the love and support on your challenging ride. We love you!! xox

Riva (5/27/08 8:01PM): Dear Thomas and Michael: You have many friends and family members that love, honor, and cherish you...and, all of us will be on that ride with you in spirit. I am very grateful for knowing and loving you both. Have a GREAT TIME and make sure you cushie your tushies!! xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo

Susan & Robert Julian (5/27/08 7:52PM): Thom - you are a person who just keeps on giving. We hope this ride blesses you as you have blessed so many others.

Kat Foster (5/27/08 7:49PM): Break a Leg!!! (or maybe that's not appropriate for a long bike ride?) DON'T break a leg, I guess...Thanks for riding for a great cause. Hope you're well. Best Wishes, Kat

Bob Castle (5/27/08 6:58PM): Tom and Michael,

Just wanted to wish you both a safe trip. It's a good thing you are doing and the world needs good things these day. Take care, have fun and many blessings, Bob

Julie (5/27/08 5:54PM): Thanks for all you do to make this world a better place, my friend. You are a wonderful inspiration!

Sandy and Vic Verma (5/27/08 4:04PM): RIDE LIKE THE WIND MY FRIEND. MAKE SURE TO SET YOURSELVES UP FOR A GOOD TUSHY MASSAGE WHEN YOU HIT THE FINISH. THIS IS A WONDERFUL THING YOU AND MICHAEL ARE DOING AND A GREAT WAY TO REMEMBER TIMOTHY. YOU ARE ALWAYS INSPIRING AND WILL JUST ADD THIS TO THE VERY LONG LIST OF THE WONDERFUL THINGS YOU DO FOR PEOPLE ALL OVER. SO GLAD TO KNOW YOU-YOU ARE A TRUE PRINCE!

Debbie and Dan Kass (5/27/08 3:17PM): Tom: Your inspiration continues to inspire us, with all you have on your plate with DF, you continue to give back to this worthy cause. We will be thinking of you and sending our love all the way to the finish line. Our love, Dan, Debbie, Josh, Justin and Jenna Kass

Tina Fanucchi (5/27/08 2:19PM): Thank you Tom and Michael! May your heart and "sole" ride in memory of those who have gone before, and in honory of those living today.. My love and respect to you both. In Loving Memory of Stephen Orrico Fanucchi. Tina Fanucchi & Greg Frontado

Katharine Hennessey (5/27/08 2:14PM): Thomas, I pray that you have a very safe and successful ride.

Dan Berendsen & Kevin Brockman (5/27/08 1:32PM): Good luck! You're going to love it. One of the best things I've ever done.

Paula Van Ness (5/27/08 12:03PM): Michael and Thom: Best wishes for a wonderful ride--may you enjoy the experience on multiple levels. My special wish for you is that you'll make this trip knowing that other people who care deeply about the AIDS crisis are riding along with you in spirit. Godspeed, Paula

Sharon M. Nixon (5/27/08 11:45AM): My dear friends, Thank you for all that you do to make the world a better place! Good luck on the ride and we hope to see you both soon.

much love,

Sharon and Brian

Michele Atkins (5/27/08 10:57AM): Ride a good ride and enjoy it! Know what a difference you are making to so many people.

Michael Nielsen (5/27/08 10:39AM): I'm not surprised by your conviction, generous spirit nor the out pouring of support for you and Michael -- you bring out the best in people. Here's to an amazing ride; Seattle is proud of you!

Lisa Luyties (5/27/08 10:33AM): Have an awesome ride! Thanks for doing this and for all you do to make this world a better place. Peace!!

eileen (5/27/08 10:31AM): Love to you both. I know what an amazing team you are in life, I know you will be an amazing team on this journey as well. What you are doing for others is incalcuable..it is more than the money, as you know. It is standing in solidarity with others and being a message for all who care. Happy trails. I love you both and look forward to hearing your wonderful stories and sharing some Hello Dollies next time I'm in SBA. XOXO Eileen

JOEL & KEVIN (5/27/08 10:29AM): Best of luck on your ride guys. We wish you all the support you need to complete your goal. Many blessings.

Leanne Kamekona & Lydia Villanueva (5/27/08 10:23AM): Tom & Michael, Have a great and memorable ride on this special day. May you have alot of hawaiian "MANA" (power/strenght) to carry both of you through this journey safely.

"A HUI HOU" (Until we meet again)

Leanne & Lydia

Steve Nipper & Lori Zahn (5/27/08 10:23AM): Wishing you both a successful and safe ride... and sorry we can't join you. We are providing the water for the Paradise Pit and will see you there!!!!

Jean Hunn (5/27/08 10:22AM): You have touched so many lives and continue to do so. Bless you! Safe cycling!

cathy addington (5/27/08 10:21AM): Thomas, you make me so proud to know that you are such a fantastic individual, and truly blessed to be your friend. Thank you for all the wonderful things that you do for everyone!!!

Kevin, Debbie & Kaitlin Gerszewski (5/27/08 10:09AM): Thom:

You have made such a positive impact on me and my family, and obviously many others. TAke care.

Peter Christman (5/25/08 5:28PM): Dear Thom & Michael, Your life resume continues to astound and inspire me. I am honored to know two very special men who are angels on this physical planet. My love and support always, Peter

Ana (5/23/08 7:22PM): RIDE RIDE RIDE!!!!

The Girls in Santa Barbara (5/23/08 11:58AM): We are all routing for you here in Santa Barbara. Thanks for the continual example that, "With love, all things are possible." We will be thinking of you and holding down the Fort until you return...can't wait to hear all about it.

Eve & Gideon (5/23/08 7:56AM): You inspire all who surround you each day -- good luck!!

Rod Lathim (5/22/08 8:39AM): Dear Thom and Michael Bravo to you both for your commitment and huge efforts to do this Ride - again! It changed my life forever, thanks to you Thom when I saw you ride through SB in 1997. Now, as Paradise Pit Coordinator, I celebrate both of you, and Timm's memory and can't wait to scoop you on June 6th. Thanks for making a difference in a big way. I am so proud of you both. Ride on!! Love, Rod aka "Scoop"

Monty Collins + Jerry Dark (5/20/08 3:44PM): Tom + Michael, Thank you for representing all of us with your efforts to raise money to continue the battle against HIV/AIDS. Please know that we support you guys with our love and thoughts. Monty + Jerry

Stephen Fountain (5/20/08 8:38AM): Dear Thom & Michael, All the love & support from your family and friends will be with you as you ride along the beautiful landscapes of California, knowing at the end of each day that those tight, sore quads, calves, and glutes all all worth the ride!!! God bless you both with strength & love, Stephen

Luke and Aidan Mullen (5/19/08 2:30PM): Hi Uncle Tommy and Uncle Michael,

Have a cool ride...wish we could ride with you, but Aidan can't ride a bike yet. We so excited that our sleeping bags will be along for the ride. We'll give you a big hug when you get back, and if you're hot, you can jump in the pool when you're done! We love you! Love, Luke and Aidan

Stefani Canin Mullen (5/19/08 2:25PM): You boys put me to shame!!! I wouldn't be able to make it up one single hill, thank goodness for buff guys like you! You both never cease to amaze and inspire us. We so proud of you both, you're always showing others that IT'S POSSIBLE! Your strength and determination will carry you all the way. Don't forget your pocket angels, and our thoughts are prayers are with you all the way!!! Cupcakes for all when it's done! We love you both, and thank you for your example of goodness. Love, Stef, Ted, Luke and Aidan

Scott Reader & Paul Cunliffe (5/19/08 12:15PM): Thanks for doing this guys. For all of us. We'll be thinking about you and sending some good vibes!! :-)

Scott & Paul

Judy and Lori (5/16/08 3:01PM): T and M -

Troy, M.A., Jerry - three of many of our close friends here no more because of this plague. Troy was my lifelong best friend, gone in '95, putting me on a bike for AIDS Ride 2. Sending our love and good wishes to you both. Ride like the wind (or draft like hell)! xo - Judy and Lori

Trish, Quinton, Georgia & Mason (5/16/08 11:32AM): You are an inspiration...It's an honor to support you and Michael in this. Love, T Q G &M

Tad Webster (5/15/08 6:20PM): Tom and Michael - Wow...what an inspiration! Thank you to both of you for continuing with your efforts and raising such important money to fight this cause! Much love and hugs!! -Tad

Jeff Levinson (5/14/08 5:31PM): You continue to inspire and teach by example - through selfless giving and ardent dedication to great causes. Thanks for doing what you do - and for being who you are! LOTS OF LOVE, Jeff

jon, martha, and danny bull (5/12/08 2:56PM): We don't know how, with all that you two do, you have so much time left over to help others! Two riders, two bikes, two web links, and we love you both, so: two donations, and we'll let you sort it out over sore muscles and a beer. Thanks for letting us couch non-riders be a part of this! Best, J, M, & D

Mo McFadden (5/12/08 2:27PM): Dearest Thom and Michael, Always at the forefront...fighting the good fight. Thanks for ridin' and sweatin' for the cause. You guys are the best. Love, Mo

Morten and John (5/12/08 11:49AM): Tom and Michael, Thank you guys for your effort to support. Have a great ride! XO Morten and John

Sabine & John (5/12/08 11:34AM): Congratulations on raising so much $ and awareness! Have a great ride! John and I are also supporting our friend Trevor who is riding his second ride. (John rode, and I volunteerd - Sag 4 - for AidsRide 2... many years ago!) We'll be riding the last miles in with Trevor, and will be looking for you and Michael. Though the crowds are always huge, it's amazing how you always run into your friends!

Alan & Jeff (5/09/08 11:17PM): Thanks for continuing to fight for the cause. We love you guys.

Good luck to both of you!

Luzanne (5/09/08 5:19PM): Good luck, Tom! You're such a wonderful man and I feel so blessed to be a part of your life. Love, Luzanne

Marilyn Cole- Shatz (5/08/08 10:56AM): Dear Thomas, The fun is in the doing and the rewards are ten-fold with the support and admiration of your friends and family. Much love, Marilyn

Kerry Bennett (5/08/08 10:25AM): Good for you Thom! What a wonderful thing you are doing...how long is the ride and from where and to where does it run? Let me know...Love you and would love to donate! All my love, Ker

Brian Landers (5/07/08 3:46PM): I am really proud of both of you. Enjoy, have the time of your life while knowing you are doing a great thing.

Mireille, Peter, Natalie Noone (5/07/08 3:28PM): Dear Tom and Michael,

We are so proud of your tremendous efforts and your absolutely sincere and inspiring commitment to the fight against AIDS. We gladly join and support you in that fight. All our love and best wishes.

The Noones

cynder (5/07/08 2:53PM): Hi Tom, I am in your corner, buddy! Thanks for riding in this important event. Cheers, Cynder

Lee Erwin and Tim Jochen (5/07/08 1:26PM): Good luck Tom! We're proud of you!

Michael (5/07/08 11:24AM): You are a tremendous man and a great partner! I look forward to this adventure with you and making a difference in this world together! xoxome

BOB SWARTZ (5/07/08 9:45AM): I admire your continuing efforts at giving for the good of others. I hope you and Michael have a safe ride and have a comfortable seat! Maybe we'll be able to get together if we get to Californis this summer.

All our best Bob & Rob

missy tatum (5/07/08 9:01AM): you know how much i love and respect you both.. ((huggs)) and keep up the good work xoxo

PHILIP BRENT AND BRUCE MOCCIA (5/07/08 5:59AM): TOM AND MICHAEL...YOU'RE THE BEST ! BRUCE AND I ADMIRE YOUR DEDICATION TO HELPING THOSE WHO DON'T SHARE ALL THE BLESSINGS WHICH SOMETIMES WE TAKE FOR GRANTED.... FONDLY, PHILIP BRENT AND BRUCE MOCCIA

David Mixner (5/07/08 5:51AM): Thanks for doing this from us all.

Pepper Dombroski (5/07/08 1:04AM): Mahalo for asking me to be a part of this ride with you. I value the friendship that I have with you and Michael. Have a great ride! A hui ho! Pepper

Kathy Thurston (5/06/08 11:16PM): Kulia i ka nu'u!!! Strive for the highest!!! Thank you for doing that every day of your life. YOU are an inspiration by the way you choose to live out your life!!! May God continue to bless and watch over you as you continue on life's journey!!!

Aloha a hui hou!!! Much love until we meet again!!!

Kathy

Francine Bergman & John Goldhammer (5/06/08 3:42PM): Thom,

You are an inspiration.......I thank our friend Earl for introducing us. We are grateful to share in a small part of your life......

Love, Francine

Greg Economos (5/06/08 3:15PM): Thomas, all the best for a great ride.

mitch (5/06/08 1:56PM): thom and mike, Go guys! love,mitch

Debbie colpean (5/06/08 1:46PM): What a precious way to remember Tim. I am thinking about you and sending my love.

Debbie

Pamela Thompson (5/06/08 1:09PM): Your words, your actions, who you are always inspires. I admire and adore you.

Chris Miller and Joe Piazza (5/06/08 12:05PM): Hi Tom and Michael,

We are so very happy to support you in this ride. Thanks for putting all the time and effort into training. It's a great ride and a great cause!

Love, Chris and Joe

Rob Pearson (5/06/08 11:49AM): I am honored to support you on the ride. xo Rob

Kirk Pereira (5/06/08 11:41AM): Tom, ray and I gave to Michael in support of both of you. We will be thinking of you with admiration as you take on this icredible journey.

xo, Kirk

Dodd Family (5/06/08 11:30AM): Good luck Tom, hope all is well. Mike, Patty, Dalas and Dominique Dodd

Chandler Lutz (5/06/08 11:24AM): Thom & Michael- Ride for the Dream- Chan

Shelly (5/06/08 11:16AM): Oh how I miss Timmy! I'll donate to you for him! * amount to be determined soon :) ><((((*>

Margarita F. Lande (5/06/08 10:50AM):  Dear Tom....I did not know that you had lost your partner....What a wonderful way to carrry on his spirit...my twin daughters ran in the Dublin Marathon a few years back on behalf of the San Francisco Aids Foundation and I met so many great people....Have a fabulous ride!! Best Wishes, Margarita Lande

Faye Eson (5/06/08 10:01AM): My Dearest Thom and Michael, Thank you for always giving of yourself to help others! Love to you both, Faye :)

Mike Cooper - GlobalDoc, Inc. (5/06/08 9:34AM): Thom, you amaze me with all you do, not only your continued personal involvement at the Dream Foundation but also with the inspiration you provide for others like myself to get off my you know what and contribute in some way. I admire you and all you stand for, Thom. Thank you for including GlobalDoc when opportunities arise for usto give back.

Susan (5/06/08 8:45AM): I love you brother-in-law!!!! Bike a few miles for me!

Thomas' Links

Dream Foundation
Special thanks to my Dream Team, for keeping the fort down while I'm away, for their extreme loving support, and most of all, for making dreams come true for thousands of famalies during their end of life journey!



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