Hello friends and family...hope you are staying safe and healthy during this unprecedented time! This summer would be the 18th year of the Wisconsin AIDS Ride and my 21st ride. With the current situation, there are many unknowns regarding the ride. At this time, we are coming up with a plan for a virtual ride of some sort. Participants will be able to log miles on their own to raise money. For me that works out really well since I'm currently recovering from rotator cuff surgery and will be logging most of my miles on a recumbant bike at the gym. In the end, funds still need to be raised for the clients affected by HIV/AIDS. The case managers are still working with clients, delivering food from the pantry and prescriptions from the pharmacy. As it is vital to keep the clients healthy and out of health care facilities, the services must continue in a very different way at this time. Your donations are needed now more than ever! Please donate if you are able at this time. Stay safe...I appreciate you! love and peace, Kristin

A few updates at the agency:

The name Vivent is derived from the Latin word, "live" and verb, "prevent" and reflects the spirit and values of the organization. "Our new name is a celebration of our most sacred beliefs—that no one should be defined by the health challenges they face and everyone deserves the highest quality of care and the chance to live long, healthy lives," said Michael J. Gifford, President and Chief Executive Officer of Vivent Health. "Our new, stronger brand and mission reflect our relentless efforts to help people affected by HIV thrive."

The Vivent Health patient-centered model of care is helping more than 95 percent of their patients achieve an undetectable viral load. Being undetectable is the most important clinical outcome related to the treatment of HIV, as people with an undetectable viral load are not only managing their HIV as well as possible, they are also unable to transmit HIV to someone else.

An important aspect of health care at Vivent Health is ensuring people at risk for HIV have access to PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), a lifesaving pill that when taken daily is over 90 percent effective in preventing HIV. Unfortunately, fewer than 8 percent of people at risk for HIV have access to or can afford the medicine. Continues Gifford, "As the need for PrEP increases and HIV continues to be a leading example of a health disparity, Vivent Health will be as committed as ever to expanding lifesaving programs to individuals with the greatest need and working toward our ultimate goal of a world without AIDS."

As you can see, this organization continues to provide the best services and remains the number one service organization in the nation for people living with HIV/AIDS!

I am a member of the organizing committee again for the ride this year. This is an amazing community of caring individuals that will continue this fight no matter how the circumstances play out this year. I am honored to say that last year I was the top fundraiser once again with over $11,000 raised!! This is only because of supporters like you!

I know that many of you may currently have financial limitations, but I would be grateful for any help that you can provide. Fundraising will continue through the summer as well. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your ongoing support and love and sincerely hope that you are safe in all of this craziness!

Peace and love always, Kristin and Team Orange