As a teenager growing up in the 1970s Queen was such an integral part of my teenage memories, I always loved their music and even now when I hear one of their tunes it always brings back fond memories of those carefree days. When I learned earlier this year a movie being released called Bohemian Rhapsody it was a given I had to see it opening weekend!  In short, the movie changed me. I left the theatre not only having a deeper appreciation for Queen's music but for Freddie Mercury's battle with AIDS. The movie inspired me to watch as many documentaries and read as many books and literature I could get my hands on about Freddie's life and his battle with AIDS. Despite how some people may feel (how he lived his life contributed to why he got the disease) the indisputable fact is that a brilliant musical genius was taken from this world far too soon.  Only years later now that I am older I have recently started to learn about the many facets of Freddie's life and talents. He was so much more than the front man of one of the most iconic rock bands of our generation. He was a gifted musician and artist in every aspect possible that transcended far beyond the rock and roll world. Two facts I never knew until recently is he designed the intricate artwork for the Queen logo (earning his degree as a graphic artist before he became a famous musician) and in 1988 he collaborated with opera legend Montserrat Caballe on the studio album Barcelona  He was a cat lover (owning 10 cats who were named Tom, Jerry, Tiffany, Dorothy, Delilah, Goliath, Lily, Miko, Oscar, and Romeo) and a very generous, passionate and brave human being. Even while he was dying he never complained about his illness to anyone and he continued to record music right up until a few months before his death. His love and passion for his art kept him going and gave him a reason for living even while he was dying. His generosity and thoughtfulness for the people closest to him continued until his final days. He chose not to tell the world he was dying from AIDS until 1 day before his death because he didn't want to be pitied.

The Mercury Phoenix Trust was founded in 1992 by fellow band mates Brian May, Roger Taylor and manager Jim Beach in memory of Freddie Mercury who died in 1991 from AIDS, to honour his life, memory and to help put an end to the disease that took his life. 

The charity has been raising money to fund grassroots HIV/AIDS globally. Since its inception the MPT has raised over 15 million dollars and funded over 700 projects in the global battle against HIV/AIDS. The foundation continues to fund desperately needed HIV/AIDS initiatives globally by using Freddie's memory, his charisma and drive to eradicate the disease.

November 24th commemorates the 27th anniversary of Freddie's death and December 1st is World AIDS day. This year I have committed myself to raising $1000 between November 24th and December 1st to help in the fight against AIDS and put an end to this disease which has claimed far too many lives. Please help me reach my goal by making a donation to my page.

Thank you kindly for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

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GOOD THOUGHTS! GOOD WORDS! GOOD DEEDS!