This past weekend, Boston University united in the fight against pediatric AIDS (“Dance Marathon raises $52,000 to fight pediatric AIDS,” April 3, p. 1). A unique annual event, Dance Marathon continues to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS and to fundraise for Camp Heartland and Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. This year’s event was more energized and better attended than in any years past. This year’s volunteers proved themselves to be passionate advocates for HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention.
With the increase in length this year we attracted the truly dedicated individuals to participate. All participants should be applauded and thanked for their participation in the event. These fantastic current students, alumni and friends of students gave up a weekend to raise money and raise awareness for the fight against AIDS.
As a result of the $52,000 raised, approximately 10 children affected or infected by HIV/ AIDS will be sent for a week at Camp Heartland where they can just “be kids” and be freed from the stigma of being a child infected or affected by HIV/AIDS. In addition, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) will continue to support research and treatment in sites around the world not supported by government funds to help mothers and children be treated against this lethal disease.
In four short years Boston University Dance Marathon has donated over $200,000 to Camp Heartland and the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. BUDM is Camp Heartland’s largest fundraiser! What a phenomenal accomplishment for an event just in the beginning stages of potential growth.
Each year Dance Marathon will continue to raise incredible sums of money for two worthy beneficiaries. Whether $52,000 or $80,000 is raised, the fact that hundreds of BU students unite to raise money and raise awareness for pediatric AIDS is priceless. I hope each participant is as proud as I am to be a part of such a monumental event on this campus.
Alison Werner SAR ’07 Co-Overall Coordinator Boston University Dance Marathon 2006