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David Kosnitzky
Since 9th grade of high school I have been involved with various HIV/AIDS events such as the GMHC Walk. Back then in 9th grade I didn't truly get what the walk was about. Don't get me wrong, I knew it was to raise money for treatment and services, and to raise awareness that a cure was STILL needed. I didn't get the impact it would have on my life. I walked because I wanted the extra credit grade my teacher was offering. All of the costumes, energy, and emotion during the walk kept me walking for a couple years. Soon after I became emotionally attached to the people, the cause. Ten years now passed and I am still walking. But up until 2008 I still didn't truly get it. That is until I rode Braking the Cycle 2008. Walking 6 miles and riding a bicycle 275 miles, its all relative, it will be easy. Well that's at least what I thought after reading a book on the theory of relativity. I was wrong. The 275 miles took three days, not three hours. I rode through rain, wind, horse manure, and hills. Many of the miles hurt. However I felt strong through many of them. Very similar to what HIV positive peers of mine struggle with. The pain of one day and the happiness of the next. The ride was a symbol of this to me. The struggle they face day to day, not once a year like the ride. Since registering for the ride my friendships have grown stronger with people that are positive. They have become statue role models in my life. If I could only capture their strength day to day I would be a strong force in this world. My friendships too have grown stronger with a group of men that either are HIV positive or have friends and family that may be. During the ride last year I felt a hidden guilt. My riding became selfish. I didn't want my friends to struggle. I wanted them to have my support. I wanted to ride so they would not only have my support but the support of The Center on 13th Street. I can sit here and wonder if I will be able raise as much money as I did last year. I can question my strength. Will I have time to train? I take a step back and remember the love I have for my friends. That alone gives me the strength to continue moving forward. I will move forward and ride each and every year to support my friends and The Center. In turn, I have registered for Braking the Cycle 2009. Boston to NY Boston to The Center Riding with my friends Riding for my friends David Kosnitzky Click here to make a donation in support of David. |