“One person in Canada is infected with HIV/AIDS approximately every 2 hours.” In fact, it is estimated that 4000 Albertans are affected by HIV and AIDS. AIDS Calgary and HIV Edmonton would like these statistics to be on your mind as you walk and support The 2009 Scotiabank Walk for Life on September 20th.
Floyd Visser of the SHARP Foundation could not be more excited for this event. Although it is hosted by AIDS Calgary, “they have kindly allowed the funds that are pledged to the SHARP team walkers to go directly to The SHARP Foundation for its care programs.” These programs are consistent with the Foundation’s approach to wholisitic support to improve the health and quality of life for its residents. Currently, it cares for up to 18 residents in three facilities including The Beswick House, Scott House, and Project 2011, and others through outreach care. However there are still many individuals that are being referred to the SHARP Foundation that, for lack of funds, cannot be supported by the organization. This is why the Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life is so important. “The need is urgent!”
Visser is proud of his walking teams that are made up of supporters, residents, former residents, funders, volunteers, and Board members. Naturally they welcome more pledges and additional walkers. Visit their website to find out how to support their team, or choose the SHARP Foundation as your pledge recipient on the Walk for Life Pledge Form centerfold in this month’s magazine.
HIV Edmonton is just as excited. For the second year in a row, AIDS Calgary has challenged HIV Edmonton to what they call the Alberta Throwdown. “The agency that raises the most money for The 2009 Scotiabank Walk for Life will be declared tops in Alberta.” The loser will be subject to an embarrassing task as chosen by the winner. All in good fun, this is more reason to come out and support your city of choice.
HIV Edmonton “has been providing support, community education, advocacy, prevention and harm reduction education to the Edmonton community for twenty-one years.” Similarly AIDS Calgary “promote(s) the healthy choices people can make to reduce their risk of getting or spreading HIV/AIDS. (They) provide information and resources on practicing safer sex, wearing condoms and avoiding behaviors or situations that could put you at risk since 1983.”
There are two ways that you can participate at the walk in your city. You can either register as a team or as an individual; the goal for teams is to raise $2000 and individuals to raise $250. All of the proceeds go to help those programs in your chosen city. Simply register at either the AIDS Calgary website or the HIV Edmonton website.
The walk begins at Eau Claire Centre in Calgary, and Churchill Square in Edmonton. Even if you are not walking, you can still come down to these locations to cheer on the walkers. If you are walking, make sure you dress the part and bring your enthusiasm with you! Prizes include: Top Early Bird, Top Walker, Top Child, Top Youth, Top Corporate Team, Top Non-Corporate Team, and Top Dog. Make sure to stay after the event to enjoy food, fun, and entertainment.
The Scotiabank AIDS Walk for Life is a time honoured tradition that spans many years and is celebrated across the country. Come out and support AIDS Calgary, HIV Edmonton, and the SHARP Foundation.

For more information, check out the Walk for Life Pledge Form centerfold in this magazine.