There’s still no cure for HIV, so the HIV North Society focuses on prevention and education, and supports individuals affected by HIV/AIDS in our community.
The third and final Scotiaband AIDS Walk for Life is set for this Sunday in Grande Prairie, and all money raised will be going towards local programming.
Executive Director Susan Belcourt-Rothe says that although there aren’t many people affected by HIV/AIDS in Grande Prairie, there’s still lots of work to be done.
“The population is small, but what we really look at is the prevention factor; it’s estimated that every three hours on individual in Canada is infected with HIV, so prevention is really key, because this disease is 100 per cent preventable.”
Belcourt-Rothe says people are living longer than ever thanks to advancements in research and treatment, but the best way to avoid getting infected is to take care around blood and bodily fluids.
“Making sure that you’re protecting yourself. Don’t use needles that other people have used for injection drug users, protect yourself when you’re sexually active by using condoms; it’s just being sensible and really thinking about ways to protect yourself around blood and body fluids.”
The two walks in Fort McMurray and Peace River have raised $12,000Â towards the $25,000Â goal so far.
Anyone interested in supporting the cause can register for the walk at Muskoseepi Park at 9 a.m., or donate online.