California: AIDS Walk L.A. Unites, Inspires

The 27th annual AIDS Walk Los Angeles, held on Oct. 16, drew a crowd of more than 30,000 participants and raised more than $3 million for AIDS Project Los Angeles and other related service organizations. The walk inspired mixed emotions for Craig Miller, its founder and producer. "The bitter part is that we are 30 years into this epidemic and we still need to have an AIDS Walk," he said. "Back in 1985 we were hopeful that this emergency would run its course faster than it has. But the sweet part is that there are actually more people than ever willing to band together, raise funds, and walk together." Craig Thompson, APLA's executive director, said his organization's key goals are to encourage people to get tested and linked to care if positive, and to help them stick to their treatment regimen. "There is a misconception that everyone responds well and has access to medical care and medical treatments," he said. "That's a simplistic view. We've in no way cured this disease."

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