Give A Day to World AIDS

Here’s a shout out to a truly inspirational Canadian woman: Dr. Jane Philpott.

Get to know Dr. Philpott and her Give A Day to World AIDS movement. Dr. Philpott is a family doctor in Ontario who also has a strong interest in global health. Her work in Africa has given her first-hand experience with the ravages of the AIDS pandemic, including its impact on women and children. But she has chosen not to be intimidated by the magnitude of the problem and has confronted it head-on. In 2004, she rallied a bunch of other doctors at the Markham Stouffville Hospital, northwest of Toronto, to donate one day’s salary to the battle against AIDS. Since then, her Give A Day movement has gathered steam, and tomorrow (October 29) marks the launch of the 2008 fundraiser.

If you’re in the Toronto area, join Give A Day and its partner organizations—Dignitas International and the Stephen Lewis Foundation—for a harambee. "Harambee" is the Swahili word for "pulling together." World AIDS Day on December 1 is just 33 days away—and there are 33 million people infected with HIV around the world. In other words, say the organizers, "We’ll have 33 days to inspire 33 million Canadians to be part of the solution to HIV in the world." The launch party will feature Dr. Philpott as well as live music and a few special guests.

If you’re not in Toronto, visit Give A Day’s website and use its calculator to calculate and donate one day’s pay. Or find out how to start a campaign in your workplace, just as Dr. Philpott did with her colleagues back in 2004.

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