Braving snow and cold temperatures, more than 50 people came to rally support for AIDS victims and their families at the 2002 AIDS Walk Sunday afternoon.

Valerie James, senior in textiles and clothing, came with sorority sisters of Sigma Gamma Rho to show support for the cause.

“We try and support as much as we can, especially in Story County,” James said.

The event consisted of two speakers and a walk around Stuart Smith Park, Elwood Drive and South 4th Street.

Both speakers were from the Story County area and volunteer their time to speak to groups to educate others about AIDS and HIV.

“I’ve spoken to everyone from grade school to nursing homes, because I guess it’s true — they are having sex too,” said Kelly Weikum, victim of the disease and speaker for the Living with HIV program.

Janelle Durlin, Living with HIV program coordinator, said currently Weikum and Tim Clark are the only speakers used by the Living with HIV program, which was formerly the Story County AIDS Coalition.

“We need people to spread the word that we care [about AIDS],” said Clark, a speaker and volunteer for the Living with HIV program.

“Just by showing up today you are telling the 67 clients in the area that you care.”

Clark has become increasingly active during the past five years in the fight against AIDS.

He said he speaks at events because it’s worth it if he can spare at least one person from the pain of AIDS.

Weikum said AIDS is a daily struggle.

“It doesn’t just affect you, it affects everyone around you,” he said.

Weikum spoke about how much it costs to have AIDS.

He said he spends $1,600 for three medications that only last a month.

Weikum also shared some personal stories about his son and how his disease has also affected his life.

ISU students and community members participated in the walk.

“I do every volunteer project I can do and I’ve never done an AIDS walk before,” said Jenni Swanson, freshman in pre-med.

All proceeds from the AIDS Walk will go to AIDS and HIV victims and their families to cover expenses such as rent, groceries and transportation.

“We’re really looking forward to doing it again even better next year,” said Nicole Oldenburger, president of the AIDS Walk and sophomore in elementary education.