When I first heard about this year’s 20th anniversary ride, I was excited to get back on the bike and raise money for those impacted by HIV/AIDS. My plans changed in October of 2022 when I was diagnosed with Colon Cancer and had emergency surgery to remove the tumor. I completed 12 rounds of chemotherapy the first week of May and my body is slowly recovering. My prognosis is good and I was fortunate to have such great support from my doctors, co-workers, family and friends.

Although I am not riding this year, I am still raising money to support those living with HIV/AIDS who do not have the same support system I have. HIV/AIDS is a continuing epidemic in Georgia and it is affecting young Black and Hispanic men at a disproportionate rate. Lack of insurance, lack of transportation to obtain care, stigma – fear of judgment from family, and poverty are all barriers to getting care. They are more worried about where they going to sleep or where they’re going to get their next meal than about getting their next HIV treatment.

Positive Impact Health Center’s mission is to provide care for the HIV community to have a life worth loving. PIHC is part of the safety net that provides support to help the most vulnerable to overcome the barriers.

I believe that every person deserves compassion. I am raising money for the Emory Vaccine Center as too many people are still dying of AIDS and I am raising money to provide hope to those living with HIV through the services provided by Positive Impact Health Centers.