TRAVERSE CITY -- Stop AIDS, Keep the Promise.
The 27th anniversary of World AIDS Day, today, serves to remind people that the AIDS epidemic hasn't gone away and the commitment to fight the disease is as important as ever.
Locally, a ceremony is planned for 7 p.m., this evening, at the Grace Episcopal Church to emphasize the worldwide theme, "Stop AIDS, Keep the Promise."
Organizer Brian Simerson of Munson Medical Center's Thomas Judd Care Center has planned guest speakers, performances by Interlochen Arts Academy students, music, poetry and special readings before a candlelight vigil.
"This is a chance for people to talk to family and friends and break down the stigma that surrounds the HIV/AIDS diagnosis," said Simerson, facilitator of Munson's Thomas Judd Care Center, a treatment case management facility for people with HIV/AIDS.
Simerson will speak on the need for leadership in the community to ensure that government agencies and policy makers continue committing resources to fighting the disease.
Other staff members, including case manager Barbara Robbins, RN, and social worker Jessica Simpson, MSW, will speak on treatment funding and the mental health aspects of dealing with a diagnosis.
"We need to keep this in the public's mind," said Simerson, who encourages wearing a red ribbon, a global symbol of support for HIV-positive people and those living with AIDS.
A free-will offering during the ceremony will benefit the Angel Fund at the Thomas Judd Care Center. This fund helps clients with HIV and their families meet expenses not covered by current funding options.
The event, sponsored by the Thomas Judd Care Center, R2R Outreach Program, Spectrum of Northwestern Michigan College and the Traverse Health Clinic, is not the only local observance of World AIDS Day.
Free HIV testing will be offered from 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Traverse Health Clinic, located at 3147 Logan Valley Road. The clinic uses the HIV Rapid Test with same-day results. For those interested in testing, calling for an appointment is encouraged but not required. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call 935-0668.
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