The Telluride Aids Benefit has been a part of my life ever since I can remember. The benefit began as a very small, local fundraiser when I was just 3 years old. All the fashion was created from our town Free Box and pieced together by local volunteers. The initial idea was to raise money for a well-known and loved local but he would not allow the money to go to just him, which is when WestCAP ( a beneficiary) came into play. From there it has simply grown and we now raise money for beneficiaries all over Colorado, some Utah, and even Africa. My mom, Sandy McLaughlin was on the TAB board almost my entire life and of course taught me the importance of this cause. She started the first ever Student Fashion Show which I was a "model" in when I was in 3rd grade. I participated in the show every year through my Senior year of High School and directed the student show my last two years. I have also been a part of the adult show for multiple years, donating hundreds of hours in my life to this cause. While I love the fun of putting together a show that becomes more incredible each year, my passion around this issue is helping those battling this illness gain access to the care they need, breaking down stigmas, and helping others become knowledgable about AIDS. As a peer educator in high school and then as a volunteer for the Portland AIDS Walk in college, it became very clear to me the stigma around AIDS is still very much there. It is not a disease only gay men get, it can affect ALL of us, any gender, any identity, any background. People simply are scared of even talking about the illness and like to hide from the facts. By simply opening the door for the conversation we are able to start small at a local level and create a global change. We are able to help those who need financial assistance with medications stay alive and live long, wonderful lives. We are able to help prevent AIDS and further make steps toward stopping AIDS forever. I hold this cause very close to my heart and I hope you can find it in yourself to help support something I am very passionate about. I personally have friends living with AIDS and I am sure if you ask around, you likely know someone who is too.