Los Angeles Times - Monday February 10, 1992
Tina Daunt; Times Staff Writer

The event brought in the most money of any fund-raiser held for the AIDS Care agency and the county's HIV Case Management Program. The donations will be used this year to expand services for people with acquired immune deficiency syndrome, those who have tested HIV-positive and their families, agency officials said.

Organizers of the walk, which was put together at the last minute, said they were impressed by the turnout and the outpouring of contributions.

"It's unbelievable," said Reese Welsh, executive director of AIDS Care, a nonprofit agency that provides support services to AIDS patients and family members. "We didn't think we'd get such widespread support."

Participants, including Ventura Mayor Greg Carson, set out shortly after 9 a.m. on the four-mile trek along the bike route from the San Buenaventura beach snack bar to Surfer's Point and back.

One man, who only identified himself as Dennis, walked briskly along the ocean path.

He said he plans to do all he can to help with the fight against AIDS before the deadly disease robs him of his health. He said he learned last year that he has the human immunodeficiency virus, which causes AIDS.

"I've realized that life is short and precious," said Dennis, 25, who collected nearly $200 in pledges for the walk. "I used to never want to get old. Now I'm bummed I won't. I want to make the most of it."

Several people said they decided to participate in the event because they knew people who died of AIDS.

"It's therapeutic," said Mark Lager, 35, who recently lost a loved one to the disease. "For me, it's a means of working out my own grief."

One woman said she decided to join the march because she is worried that her children could someday get the virus.

"I have a 13-year-old son and two daughters ages 6 and 3," said Denise Salazar of Ventura. "I'm here because of them. AIDS hits all walks of life, all ages and sexes. I think people need to be more aware of what's going on."

Kathy Powell, pushing a baby stroller that held her 1-year-old son, said she was surprised that so many people showed up. She said she figured that Ventura County residents would show little interest in the AIDS fund-raiser.

She said she was pleased to see so many people.

"Ventura County finally believes AIDS is here," Powell said. Since 1990, the number of people receiving services from AIDS Care has increased from 25 to 100. In Ventura County, 222 AIDS cases have been reported, but many more people are believed to be infected with the AIDS virus. The disease has been increasing among heterosexuals, especially women.

Until Sunday, AIDS Care and the county HIV Case Management Program struggled to drum up sizable donations. About $15,000 was the most raised at previous auctions and other events.

"At times we have felt lonely," said AIDS Care's Welsh told a group of marchers after the walk. "But today, I don't feel lonely anymore."

Dan Ross, who helped organize the event, added: "For the first year of the walk, it's outstanding." Organizers hope to make the AIDS Walk an annual event.

Tom Pistulka, who has AIDS, told participants that without the donations to AIDS Care, many patients would not have enough money for food and clothing.

"You folks are our latest heroes," he said.

CAPTION: Photo: Before beginning their four-mile trek, walkers observe a moment of silence. Several hundred marched in the AIDS Walk. CARLOS CHAVEZ / Los Angeles Times Photo: Bundled-up walkers march the walkway at San Buenaventura State Beach.

920210
LT920203

Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 1992. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1980, 1992. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .