ALC5 Cyclist Tony Eason: AIDS LifeCycle - A Sneak Preview

A Sneak Preview (continued)- Part IV
Several individuals within the AIDS LifeCycle Community were asked to reflect on and comment about the 575 mile, 7 day journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Here's what they had to say:

Name: Spill Kincaid

Education: San Francisco State University, S.F. CA.
Height: 5' 11"
Weight: 160 lbs.
Age: 28
Birth Place/Origin: Origin: Lexington,Kentucky
Occupation: Author, "Goat in the Tower"
Present Location /Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94131
Favorite Book: "Goat in the Tower"

What do you think is the world's greatest asset?

- A backyard with a row of okra, squash, mustard greens, kale, beets, and a watermelon patch in the shade. . . .

If you could make one wish for humanity what would it be?

- My wish is . . ...that every family would have "cromag" rims, a titanium Nordic Track, and enough gasoline to feed the children.

How has the AIDS/HIV Pandemic affected you?

- It effects me because, it effects my brother man ............ Once upon a time, I was in the loonybin. I was in line to receive my daily medication. And, I was with a fellow patient, my good friend Tim.

Tim was aware of his HIV Status. Tim had AIDS. He was in line to receive the results of his blood test. The test results showed his T-cell count had dropped significantly below normal. At that moment, I witnessed him crumble.

Because of our "suicidal intent," Tim and I were admitted to the loonybin. Tim failed to "off himself" because he really wanted to live. Tim had contracted AIDS years before, but when so few cells were left in his body to allow him to fight, when he faced death without a choice, then .. .I realized how important an answer is needed to cure HIV/Aids.

Name: Tia Barnard

Occupation: Network Engineer - AKA "Geek"
Height: 5' 6"
Weight: 200 lbs.
Age: 32
Present Location /Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94117
Favorite Book: Cat's Eye by Margaret Atwood

What AIDS Charity events have you participated in?

- In 1999 & 2000, I was a cyclist in the "Twin Cities to Chicago" AIDS Ride.
In 2004, I was a crewmember / roadie in the " HOPE Ride" (now called the ACT Ride).
In 2005, I participated as a cyclist in the "Ride for AIDS - Chicago."

As an American Women, why is it important for women to participate in the AIDS LifeCycle Event?

- AIDS is a human disease. It effects all communities. It is important for our friends & family to be cared for and educated. I believe in our society women are given the caretaker role, and we need to be compassionate and responsible with that role. The AIDS LifeCycle event allows me to help speak out, educate and raise money for people with AIDS, who are often looked over or feared by society, where compassion is more appropriate.

Name: Christopher Matthew Altman

Education: Bowdoin College, Maine / College of Soma
Height: 5' 9"
Weight: ? lbs.
Age: 35
Birth Place/Origin: Origin: Boston, Mass.
Occupation: Arborist / Bartender
Present Location /Where do you live? San Francisco, CA 94118
Favorite Book: The Botany of Desire

As a 1st Yr. AIDS Lifecycle cyclist, what would you like to see more of in the cycling community?
- It would be nice to see more respect in the bicycle community for fellow cyclist. For example: When fellow cyclists pass me and they pass too close (without a warning) - it scares me - I feel like their gonna hit me. And, I'm afraid I'm gonna wanna beat them up. It creates "road rage." Passing without giving a warning is rude, it's dangerous, and someone may get hurt.

Who is your greatest hero?
- Harvey Milk.

And what is your greatest fear?
- That my family will somehow find out I have HIV.

TO BE CONTINUED - Check back to see what others of the AIDS LifeCycle Community have to say.

AIDS LIfeCycle Part I

AIDS LIfeCycle Part II

AIDS LIfeCycle Part III