I am delighted to welcome my 19th AIDS Walk, having raised over $38,000 for the cause through the years. I have been dedicated to prevention and awareness of HIV/AIDS since 1981. Serving as AIDS Walk Team Captain for Metropolitan Community College of Kansas City has given me the opportunity to lead students and colleagues in support of locals infected and affected by the virus. Now that I am blissfully retired, I continue to raise money every year, sometimes remotely, sometimes on the ground in KC. After 36 years of AIDS Walks, Kansas City continues to surpass national trends for its rate of suppressing viral loads – 74% locally compared to 35% nationally. I am proud to say this is due to the coordination and dedication of our local champions.