AIDS Activist Sails from Africa to NYC

The New York Daily News recently ran a story on AIDS awareness activist Victor Mooney, who is making his third attempt at what the average person would deem impossible.

In honor of his two brothers; one who lost his fight, and one still living with the disease, Mooney plans to sail 5,000 miles from the Cape Verde Islands back to New York City. Mooney will make the trip on a 17-foot boat set to be christened Never Give Up; fitting words for the New York native to rest on during his voyage, as well as for the cause of finding a cure.

Mooney’s efforts are not all as lofty as crossing the Atlantic Ocean. He’s planning a pre-row visit to six African countries to advocate for HIV testing and prevention. Taking it a step further, he’s launched a twitter campaign to rally support. By tweeting “World AIDS Day rowboat” to @goreechallenge, your twitter handle will be added to Never Give Up.

In a time filled with mindless publicity stunts and meaningless Twitter hash tags, this one seems worthwhile. For more information on Victor Mooney, visit www.goreechallenge.com.