Local College Brings Awareness on World AIDS Day

Augusta, GA—-This was a walk to remember for Mariah Roland.

Mariah Roland, Student: “The main mission is to make people aware.”

Roland and others throughout the community gathered to take part in Paine College’s world aids day march. Monday night’s events started with a candlelight vigil and a service at the college chapel. It was geared toward college students because of the number of HIV/AIDS cases among young adults.

Dr. Tina Marshall-Bradley, Paine College educator: “One doesn’t have to look a certain way in order to carry the disease, thus the kind of behavior that spreads the disease is so prevalent on college campuses.”

Cadets from the Youth Challenge Academy out of Fort Gordon led the march. Those participating marched around Paine College hitting areas like Laney Walker and Druid Park. As they walked it was a time to reflect on the many lives lost by the virus.

Michael Thomas, Paine College student: “As I was walking I was thinking about all those individuals who are affected by aids and those individuals who may be affected and do not know. Maybe they need to go and get tested so they will know their status. There’s nothing like knowing your status.“

Mariah Roland, student: “The line is stretched back like a long way so I’ve really feeling good. I’m feeling good about myself.”

Dr. Bradley says we’ve come a long way from researching and treating HIV and AIDS but it’s still being called the silent killer.

“It’s the stigma that still prevents people from seeking out from getting tested.”