The AIDS Memorial Quilt display and screenings of The Last One: Unfolding the AIDS Memorial Quilt, being presented in November at the Greensboro History Museum, are community education events to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and to encourage the public to join in with the 2017 Red Ribbon Run & AIDS Walk. Known as Winter Walk for AIDS for the first 25 years, the Ron Johnson Red Ribbon Run & AIDS Walk is the Piedmont Triad’s signature HIV/AIDS awareness and fundraising event. Much has changed since the dawn of the AIDS epidemic, when there were no medications to combat the deadly virus and doctors could only provide counsel and solace. Winter Walk for AIDS in Greensboro began as a vigil to commemorate those whose lives had been claimed by the deadly disease.

The Red Ribbon Run & AIDS Walk continues to honor lives lost to HIV/AIDS, but also celebrates the tremendous progress in the treatment, care and prevention for people affected by the disease. Triad Health Project Board Member and physician at the Cone Health Regional Center for Infectious Disease, Dr. Kees Van Dam reflects that, “Today, patients who are diagnosed with HIV, even those with AIDS, can take complete control of this deadly virus with medication and proper care to restore their immune systems and their lives. We even dare to dream of ending the epidemic through treatment as prevention and pre-exposure prophylaxis strategies.” The Red Ribbon Run & AIDS Walk draws hundreds of participants from across Guilford County, North Carolina and surrounding areas to walk, run and give in support of the vital, life-sustaining care, education, support, and prevention services that Triad Health Project provides each year to people in the community affected by HIV/AIDS.

Named for Triad Health Project founder, longtime supporter, and the single largest walk fundraiser in the walk’s history, Ron Johnson, this year’s Red Ribbon Run & AIDS Walk on November 18, kicks off at 2:30pm at LoFi Park and Joymongers Brewing Company, 576 N Eugene Street in downtown Greensboro, North Carolina. Opening ceremonies will include performances by the Triad Pride Men’s and Women’s Choruses and Grimsley High School Blue Steel Drumline. All are invited to stay after the walk/run to enjoy fabulous dining options around Greensboro’s LoFi Park and for an informal after party at Joymongers.