World AIDS Day

Today is World AIDS Day, so pin on your red ribbon and support the cause! World AIDS Day was started to raise awareness of the deadly disease and its impact on the entire world. December 1, was chosen in remembrance of the first diagnosed case of AIDS on that date in 1981. World AIDS started in 1988 and has gained attention with its celebrity supporters and themes. This years theme is Stop AIDS: Keep the Promise . This will be the theme until 2010.

I called myself looking up a list of celebrities who have lost their lives to this disease thinking I would see only a few names, maybe 20, so I could list them here. The list is well over a hundred people including Arthur Ashe (Tennis star d. 1993), Emilio Ardolino (filmmaker, Sister Act and Dirty Dancing d. 1993), Michael Jeter (Mr. Noodle on Sesame Street d. 2003), and Makgatho Mandela (son of Nelson Mandela d. 2005). People have to see this list, it shocked me to read some of the names on there.

List Of HIV Positive Celebrities And Those That Have Succumb To AIDS

There are a hosts of events around the world spreading awareness. In Asia, they're rallying and giving away free condoms. In the UK, Bono has his campaign going on with all his famous friends.

Bono's Why Africa Campaign

Bush pledged to "save more lives." A giant pink condom was placed on a tower in Buenos Aires to remind everyone that "you cannot lower your guard." The United Nations is holding commemoration at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City, hosted by Rosie Perez.

AIDS is no joke. I think the emergence of drugs and those silly ass commercials showing happy people with HIV and herpes has tricked everyone. Saving a few extra dollars by leaving the latex at the drug store can lead to "trouble, trouble" (in the words of the great Dolla Bill). Don't just be sticking the teaspoon in the unguarded honey pot, you'll have to worry about more than Winnie the Pooh. Be safe people.