On the 30th of November 2019, Ellie, Robin and Mary will be lacing up those running shoes and running the RED RUN. Hosted by Postive East, the RED RUN is a fun charity 10km run which not only raises funds to strengthen the UK’s response to HIV, but also raises awareness of HIV within the community.

Ever since 2008, the RED RUN has raised over £300,000 to help strengthen and support the UK’s HIV services. The 2019 RED RUN takes place against the backdrop of a huge shift in HIV in the UK. We have seen a dramatic fall in new HIV diagnosis, particularly amongst gay men in London. London has already exceeded the UNAIDS 90:90:90 target. Undetectable=Untransmittable is an evidence-based statement. This is amazing as a person living with a HIV diagnosed early and getting treatment, is likely to live just as long as someone of a similar age and background.

With this said, there are still challenges to be faced. Not everyone, and not all communities are benefitting from being able to access these services. 103,000 people are currently living with HIV in the UK (50,000 in London). HIV stigma is still a reality and there are still too many people undiagnosed and diagnosed late. Funding cuts to the HIV sector are still all too common despite the fact that HIV support services change lives.

Anything you can donate will not only help give everyone the chance to be able to access the services they deserve, but also it’ll make us run faster!

Ellie, Mary and Robin xxx