Dear Friends, Country Men and Women,

HIV/AIDS is a global issue, it is no respector of persons and knows no gender nor ethnicity . As we all know, the world's populations especially AFRICA has been decimated by this epidemic yet the social hysteria has eroded our ability to be accounted for each other.

I have personally watched relatives, friends and acquaintances that I loved so much die in a battle field that they did not choose and they were not equipped for. Their painful deaths due to poverty and lack of access to medications is the driving force behind my participation in the Ride FAR 500miles ride. I have a desire and a passion to give hope and quality life to those living with the virus, while the research for a cure goes on.

However, I can't do it alone. There's dire need for solidarity in the face of HIV/AIDS and the greatest battles are fought by armies of ONE.

We all have to strive to break the silence and be vocal for these souls living with swords over their heads. You and I can work together for the cause of prolonging life to these people who are not only devastated by losing their own identity but also terrified by the prospect of an imminent death.

On September 5,2007. I'll be embarking from province town, Massachusetts, together with 24 other riders on a five day-500mile bike ride to raise money for organizations providing services for children and adults living with HIV/AIDS.

Ride FAR has so far raised over $800,000 to HIV/AIDS service organizations in the previous years. This year, we have set our sights on raising another $200,000. My personal goal is set at $8,000 and my ride will not be a success if I don't hit my goal. So, friends, romans and countrymen {and country women}, I need your support to attain this goal. I encourage you to give generously as every dollar has the ability to make a difference, please help me make this dream a reality.

Donating couldn't be any easier. You can either send cash or a check to Ride FAR,BOX 186,BOLTON,MA 01740. Or to my address : LILIAN .A. ODUK,19 Wamsutta Ave, Worcester, MA 01602.

Please check out the Ride FAR website for any questions you might have " www.ridefar.org ."

"I expect to pass through this life but once. If therefore, there be any kindness I can show ,or any good thing I can do for any fellow being, let me do it now.....as I shall not pass this way again."

Yours Sincerely,

Lilian Oduk.

Obong'o Elisha,
Enterprise System Group(ESG)
20555 SH249N
Hewlett-Packard
Houston, Texas 77070
+1 281 514 4906.
elisha.obongo at hp dot kom