It's that time of year where Rafael and I proudly raise money for National AIDS Memorial through our participation in San Francisco AIDS Walk 2019! We have set a goal of raising $3,000!

The National AIDS Memorial holds a special place in our hearts and holds many wonderful memories for us, which is why we are participating in San Francisco AIDS Walk for the fourth straight year. We're hoping we can count on your generosity to help us reach our goal by making a donation now.

As most of you know, I'm recovering from chemo and radiation treatment for anal cancer. I'm slowly on the mend and Rafael and I are working to rebuild our lives together after this traumatic experience. One of the things that is most important to us it to support our community, and especially our favorite national organization that calls San Francisco home — National AIDS Memorial. We're not letting cancer get in the way of raising this money again this year. if you want to learn more about my cancer experience you can see my posts on CaringBridge at caringbridge.org/visit/fireinthehole.

The National AIDS Memorial is a 10-acre national memorial located in Golden Gate Park, dedicated to all lives touched by AIDS. The National AIDS Memorial is committed to providing, in perpetuity, a place of remembrance so that the lives of people who died from AIDS — and those who fought for justice, provided care, and made discoveries — are not forgotten, and the story of the AIDS movement is known by future generations. It is the only organization of its kind in the HIV/AIDS community. Learn more here.

The National AIDS Memorial receives no government funding, so San Francisco AIDS Walk provides some the financial support necessary to continue serving our community and nation. Your gift can help ensure it lives on in perpetuity.

We thank you for your support, because we know that together we can accomplish great things.

P Tyrone Smith-Cunha and Rafael Cunha-Smith