Camp Getaway is a 'Positive Family Camp' for children and families who are either infected or affected by HIV/AIDS in their life. This year was the 12th year that the camp has opened it's hearts and gates to those impacted by this pandemic. To get to experience a camp with both the families and children was a bonding and rewarding experience beyond words. I was a group counselor for the 7-9 year old campers, who we would share in daily camp activities together with. Each counselor was also assigned to a specific family to be with for the week. My family and I would share breakfast and dinner together each day, giving us time to bond and get to know one another better. My family possessed a bond that was utterly amazing. It was such a true pleasure and inspiration to share the week with the McCullom's! I've witnessed such courage and beauty in the youth through both of my camp experiences this summer. However, to listen to the parents share their personal stories was overwhelming and inspiring beyond all words. On numerous occasions, I was moved to tears of empathy and compassion for the bravery and conviction these parents have for themselves, life and their families.  I was fortunate to address the families about my own experiences living with HIV/AIDS, as well as to share my knowledge of the current state of affairs surrounding this disease, including budget cuts, reduced access to medications, services, apathy, complacency etc. The outpouring of support was amazing! I received hand written letters to President Bush from parents sharing their plight to survive and have access to life saving medications and services. I will hand deliver them in Crawford, Texas this week to the press in hopes that people realize how intensely AIDS affects us all and our struggle to survive and live our lives with quality and dignity. My first time volunteering at Camp Getaway is an experience that is etched deep into my heart and soul! I can't thank Mark, Sherry and all the staff and counselors for inviting me into their 'home' and hearts. I would also like to extend a gracious thank you to my Angels, Lora Wilkinson and Della Haugen for guiding me to Camp Getaway this summer. I am sincerely humbled by this most profound experience!

Every minute of every day a child dies of AIDS!