Message from VARCS' Executive Director

Thanks everyone for coming out to support this year's walk! I am sorry I am not there!

I will keep my message brief.

After 25 years of walking, there is still no vaccine and no cure for HIV/AIDS. Since 2005, infections have increased across Canada and are continuing to do so!

Karen Dennis

My message is this; more than 25 years ago the AIDS movement began. Many put their fears aside and endured extreme discrimination, homophobia and stigma to bring attention to this disease that was epidemically killing people. If not for these brave souls, we no doubt would not have the meds, treatment and supports that are available today.... many lost their lives, many lost their family and friends, employment and social circles in those early years, and unfortunately, 25 years later, it still happens. My message, my passion is, and will always be, to not let those who braved and paved the way over the years be forgotten. May their stories never be forgotten and may their efforts not be in vain. So many did not make it to be able to access the meds and supports we have today.

We need to ensure the youth know how courageous and valiant they were at a time of extreme intolerance and cruelty.

We need to continue to walk, not only to create awareness this illness still exists, but also to honour ALL who have gone before us, all who had and have HIV/AIDS or have been touched by the disease.

We still need to dispel the stigma, homophobia and fear that is still associated with HIV/AIDS.

We need to continue to ensure people are educated through prevention efforts and the support of our communities "grass roots" AIDS Service Organizations (ASO's) are still around to provide support and information.

And lastly, we need to encourage people to get tested, with pre and post testing counselling! More than 68,000 Canadians are positive and a third doesn't know it.

Again, I thank all who came out to walk, all who have donated and created teams. Thank you to the amazing volunteers who helped once again this year. A big thanks to the incredible staff and board of VARCS and VIPWAS! And last, but certainly not least, thanks to those who were here in the beginning and are still here today, as well, those who have followed who are HIV+, I thank you for "carrying the torch" and continuing to put faces to this illness. Thank you all! Have a great walk everyone ?

Sincerely
Karen Dennis
Executive Director, Victoria AIDS Resource & Community Service Society