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Join the Fight Against Pediatrics AIDS

Once in a while, we learn of a great cause that we feel inspired to share with our Mom Central readers. Founded by a Mom in 1988, the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation strives to prevent the spread of pediatric HIV infection and ultimately eliminate it through research, advocacy, and treatment programs. This organization has already accomplished a great deal for kids’ health and continues to move forward in their noble mission. They’ve just launched a new project called A Mother’s Fight, and are asking people to join the fight by signing up on the web site.

Foundation Origin
In 1981, Elizabeth Glaser unknowingly contracted HIV through a blood transfusion while giving birth to her daughter, Ariel. She later learned that she had passed the virus to Ariel through breast-feeding and that her son, Jake, had also been infected in the womb. While trying to treat their family, Elizabeth and her husband, Paul, discovered that doctors had little experience with HIV in children and available medication was only approved for adults. The lack of options led to Ariel’s death in 1988 and prompted Elizabeth to take action. She formed a foundation with two close friends to raise money for pediatrics HIV/AIDS research. After several years of national fund raising, Elizabeth lost her own battle with AIDS in 1994 and the foundation continued in her honor.

International Impact
Thanks to the dedication of the EGPAF Foundation and it partners, pediatric AIDS has been virtually eliminated in the US. On an international scale, over 50% of pregnant women with HIV in low/middle income countries receive medication to help prevent the spread of infection to their children. The Foundation provides the necessary medicine to many of these women to prevent transmission to children.

How They Do It
The EGPAF Foundation promotes three ways to help fight the spread of the HIV virus around the world. First, the organization funds scientific research to improve HIV and AIDS prevention and attempt to develop a pediatric vaccine. The Foundation also provides treatment services or “lifesaving programs” for those in need in Africa, India, and throughout the world. Last, they work with policy makers to gain funding and attention from government officials. The Foundation continues to grow and be the voice of pediatric AIDS for children and families around the world.

Get Involved
If you feel moved by the EGPAF cause, volunteer in a variety of ways through their website. Donate, participate in a foundation event, or become a Foundation advocate. Your time will help make progress toward treating and eliminating pediatric HIV and AIDS.

They just launched a new project called A Mother’s Fight, and are asking people to join the fight by signing up on the web site.