World AIDS Day 2009

Where will you be Dec. 1, 2009? 

By Ellis Fraser, M.D.

If you are in Chillicothe, Ohio come join the Ross County AIDS Task Force (RCARF) as we observe the 21st World AIDS Day.

The theme for World AIDS Day 2009 is 'Universal Access and Human Rights'. Global leaders have pledged to work towards universal access to HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care, recognizing these as fundamental human rights. Started on 1st December 1988, World AIDS Day is about raising money, increasing awareness, fighting prejudice and improving education. World AIDS Day is important in reminding people that HIV has not gone away, and that there are many things still to be done. 

According to UNAIDS estimates, there are now 33.2 million people living with HIV, including 2.5 million children. During 2007 some 2.5 million people became newly infected with the virus. Around half of all people who become infected with HIV do so before they are 25 and are killed by AIDS before they are 35.

In Chillicothe, members of the RCATF will put on our red ribbons and together with members of One Chillicothe (an organization mostly consisting of younger community members who believe and do “think globally and act locally”) to observe World AIDS Day. RCATF has promoted and conducted an HIV/AIDS awareness program and memorial vigil each year for over 12 years. Although based in a small rural town, the organization is the largest support group and longest lasting organization of its type in southeastern Ohio. The main goal is that of service to HIV positive individuals and their family but also to serve the community as a source for education.

RCATF offers monthly support group meetings for individuals who are HIV+ and interested supporters, and attends local health fairs to provide factual information on HIV+ incidence, treatment and, most importantly, prevention to groups of all ages. Members believe and support the idea of “until there is a cure” RCATF will exist in southeastern Ohio to provide support services to its membership and provide HIV and sexually transmitted infection prevention education and to battle the stigma that is preventing individuals from seeking testing and treatment. 

This year’s program will be held at The Pump House Art Gallery in Chillicothe. The program will consist of an HIV update including updates on the Ryan White Care Act reauthorization and updates on treatment.  The main speaker will also talk about Hepatitis C and HIV co-infection.  There is always time for music, food and fellowship. The program is concluded with a candle light vigil outside at the site of a memorial stone that was dedicated to those souls who have lost their lives. It is a time for memory and reflection and also support for the survivors. 

On December 1, 2009 don’t forget to wear your Red ribbon.