On Friday December 1, Worlds AIDS Day acknowledged the promise to stop the threat of HIV and AIDS. Special recognition of the world's dedication to fighting this virus is founded upon accountability, education, and prevention. The world is asking everyone to "Stop AIDS. Keep the promise."

Many supporters and AIDS educators wore red ribbons in an effort to spread awareness about the virus. These special red ribbons, along with a variety of educational pamphlets, were available to students at the AIDS awareness table set up in the PV Campus Center lobby.

On December 4 at Penn Valley, Nancy Harrington, a member of the faculty, read the names of over 50 people who have died of AIDS. Some of these names were collected in a special memory box, deposited by anyone on campus who wanted to celebrate the memory of an AIDS victim.

Every year Harrington brings students, faculty and friends together, to participate in the AIDS walk in Kansas City. Each year the number of participants grows. The next walk to raise awareness and money for research is on Saturday, April 28, 2007.

The American Red Cross believes that "Together, we can save lives." They understand that there is a terrible need to provide information that will enable people to protect themselves against HIV. Everyone in the world, children, teenagers, men and women may be at risk for contracting the virus.

If you need any information about HIV, call The Red Cross at 1-800-342-AIDS. For HIV testing sites call 1-800-342-2437 or 1-800-227-8922. Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri has additional information available to the public. The Patty Brous P.P. Clinic can be reached at (816) 756-2277.

If you or anyone you know may be at risk of contracting HIV do not hesitate to get tested. Protect yourself by using condoms during sexual activity and not sharing needles during IV drug use. The number of AIDS victims is growing at an alarming rate. Do not be a statistic! Get tested and teach prevention.

Copyright 2006 Metropolitan Community College