By Karen Rempel
Dozens of Pride Parade spectators stopped by for a photo op at the Research Foundation to Cure Aids (RFTCA) display on Seventh Avenue, near the 9/11 Memorial Tiles display. All genders and no-genders were welcomed to wear the crown and carry the torch for the cure to AIDS.
RFTCA President and Founder Kambiz Shekdar believes that when it comes to AIDS, too many stay silent, and now is the time to talk about the cure. RFTCA is using the latest stem cell research to build on the remarkable event that occurred 10 years ago, in which a man was cured of the virus using stem cells. With his background as a cellular biologist, Shekdar is convinced that cell therapy technology holds great promise in curing AIDS. RFTCA is working to build on the stem cell breakthrough, conducting research and development for a universal cure.
For more information about this roadmap to a universal cure, or to make a donation, visit RFTCA.org. Instagram @rftcureaids
Photo credits: Dusty Berke, Ismael Ramirez, Karen Rempel, Kambiz Shekdar, Deborah Strafella
