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Dab Garner

As one of the first gay men in the United States to be infected with HIV and now quickly hitting 50, I definitely have an opinion about AARP. I approached AARP in Washington, DC after seeing a commercial for Divided We Fail which is a political issue campaign addressing affordable, quality health care and financial security for all Americans. As a long term survivor of HIV and AIDS, I saw the opportunity to represent people with HIV and AIDS and the GLBT communities while working with a powerful national organization. I let them know upfront that I was a long time HIV/AIDS activist and a gay man. They welcomed me on board with welcome arms and I have always been treated with respect by those in the organizations. While I have been working with AARP/Divided We Fail, I have been given the opportunity to speak to hundreds of thousands of people sharing my story about being a gay man with full blown AIDS. This opportunity has also given me the chance to meet many government elected officials and make other great contacts. AARP/DWF posted a commercial featuring me which was on television and now on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKkkggq5bB4 talking about our platform at Divided We Fail. Through my discussion with upper management about gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered issues not to mention those of my HIV/AIDS community; they also realize the size and various needs of our communities. They truly believe the word "everyone" when advocating for quality, affordable health care and financial security. So check out AARP and Divided We Fail. A great way to secure a better future for all Americans. Wishing you health, hope and happiness. big bear hug, Dab Garner Dab the AIDS Bear Project

October 14, 2008