Fridae

AIDS Unmasked: World AIDS Day Walk 2009:

* 28 November 2009
* 12pm-2pm
* Somerset Youth *Scape Park to Tangs Orchard
* A registration fee of $10 applies

Registration is free before 30 October!

One of the harshest realities for people living with HIV/AIDS, is the lonesome journey ahead.

One of the most terrifying facts about HIV/AIDS for our society is that HIV hides behind a mask. It strikes and spreads silently. People live with AIDS in silence.

Can we change things? Join us in a walk downtown to fight this masked pandemic.

WHY AIDS should be UNMASKED:

A person living with HIV/AIDS is a masked face in the crowd. Approximately 4000 people have been diagnosed with HIV in Singapore. Those who know of their conditions largely choose anonymity. The powerful stigma associated with HIV/AIDS prevents one from disclosing their HIV-positive status to family, friends and co-workers. As there is rarely sympathy for those who fall to AIDS, we are learning not to fall - we assume we are free of risk, or if we know our vulnerability, we resist testing.

Because of fear; support, care and treatment to prolong lives are delayed.

In the meanwhile, HIV/AIDS continues to spread anonymously amidst our population.


THE SIGNIFICANCE OF UNMASKING
at the end of the walk

To cease fear and social judgement towards HIV/AIDS.

To support a society in which you or your loved ones will find it possible to disclose your HIV status easily, without fear of stigma and discrimination.

The cost of living with HIV/AIDS

Monthly Treatment of up to $1500 a month.
Consultations and some 7-8 tests for antibodies and bodily resistance etc.
To cost at least $360 (one-time costs)
Bottled milk for infants born of HIV-positive mothers
(breast milk cannot be used).
Loss of the ability to earn incomes (terminally ill AIDS patients)

Featuring:
Mister Singapore 2009, Miss New Paper 2009 and Mister Tantric 2