How old were you at the start of the AIDS epidemic?
I was 12 years old.
How did you first learn about HIV?
In high school, 10th grade, we addressed it (once it was in the news) in our speech and debate class! It became a topic in the extemporaneous category.
Where were you when you first learned about the AIDS epidemic?
In class, in high school.
What does the 25th year of riding to end AIDS mean to you personally?
It means the world. I’ve committed myself to riding until we find a cure or we end AIDS…so this 25th year is important to me.
What effect has the AIDS epidemic had on you or someone you know?
It touched many of my friends, and the stigma was awful. Some didn’t make it, but others are thriving thanks to advanced meds. But it needs to end.
Have you personally experienced stigma related to HIV/AIDS?
YES! From friends and family alike who don’t understand the facts.
What would the end of the AIDS epidemic mean to you?
It would mean our collective efforts — on the Ride and outside of it — were successful. It would be a reason to be joyful and to rejoice!