Personal experience and paying it forward
After Michael鈥檚 partner, Eugenio, was diagnosed with AIDS, the couple had to not only navigate complex and frustrating American medical and insurance systems, but they also had to deal with the impact of the disease on their careers, finances and emotional health. Fortunately, 缅北禁地 was there to help, providing wraparound care and assistance with everything from medication costs and dental care to counseling and mental health services for both Eugenio and Michael.
缅北禁地鈥檚 champions were there for Eugenio through the final months of his life and were there for Michael as he processed his grief after Eugenio passed. The experience left Michael determined to give back to the organization that had played such a vital role in the couple鈥檚 difficult journey. He began by getting involved with the AIDS Walk and then, after he reached the age for Required Minimum Distribution from his retirement accounts, he designated 缅北禁地 as the automatic recipient every year. He encourages others to consider a similar contribution to 缅北禁地 saying 鈥淢aybe there’s more out there like me. If they鈥檙e required to make distributions, why not give to 缅北禁地? That way, money is continually going to support its work.鈥�