I only got to learn about the HIV and AIDS epidemics in my early twenties. Like many others who were never taught queer history, I felt ashamed of not knowing the full extent of its impact on my community. I was enraged about the discriminatory politics that allowed it to spread at pace. But I was also moved, empowered, and inspired by the ways in which LGBTQ+ people around the world came together to support each other, challenge stigma, and ultimately fight for survival.  It is to honour the nearly 85 million lives lost to this disease, fight stigma and promote accurate and up-to-date understanding of HIV, that I will be taking part in this year's Red Run and running 10K on 25 November to mark World AIDS Day. 

I am very new to running, but this is where you come in! The more donations we can raise, the worse I'll feel about stopping mid-way and giving up. Yes, I am asking you to guilt-trip me into running 10K, but for a great cause!  

All donations will be towards Switchboard. Since their founding in 1974, Switchboard have guided members of the community through police raids, the HIV/AIDS crisis, Section 28 and more. They are one of the UK’s longest-running, volunteer-led charities serving the LGBTQIA+ communities, offering calm words when they are needed most.

Switchboard provides a safe space and a listening ear to our community at a time when it is particularly needed. Help me help Switchboard and make a small contribution to supporting my community.

And if you want to learn more about the epidemic - the documentary "How to Survive a Plage" is a personal favourite.