Act V, AIDS Ride Surpasses Fundraising Goal

More than 130 cyclists pedaled toward a cure for AIDS this week. The 300-mile journey wound through south-central Wisconsin. Their grit and determination were driven by memories of loved ones lost to the disease, reported WISC-TV. "Bring on the hills, we eat hills for breakfast,? roused cyclist Fred Conley, trying to inspire cyclists on the last leg of the ride.

According to the state Department of Health and Family Services, the largest number of HIV and AIDS cases is in Milwaukee County. However, the deadly virus affects more than 1,200 people in Dane County.

"I had a cousin die of AIDS about 10 years ago, he was my first cousin and we were really close you know,? said Conley. I have a lot of friends that are positive,? said cyclist Vanessa Van Dusen.

Conley said he was proud to be a part of the Act V, AIDS Ride.

?I figured what better way to continue to ride and raise money to find a cure for this terrible disease,? said Conley.

AIDS experts said there has been an increase in HIV-positive cases in the African-American, American Indian and Latino communities, especially among women.

?Everybody here is just like saying that message that you know there are people out there, you can't give up on humanity,? said VanDusen.

This year the cyclists surpassed their goal and raised more than $280,000, of which 90 percent will go back into the community for education, hopefully educating a new generation and saving lives along the way.

?He had a big heart, he didn't meet no stranger,? said Conley. ?He loved everybody."

More Resources AIDS Network

Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services, HIV and AIDS findings.

(source : news.yahoo.com)