Gabriel moves for change
“HIV doesn’t slow me down... with every setback you face, you learn something new.”
Six days a week, Gabriel runs. Three long, hard workouts and three recovery efforts, often adding up to 100 kilometers. The next week, he begins again. But he doesn’t see it as laborious. Running is the source of his happiness.
“I grew up a gay boy in a conservative Christian home. I attended a church that condemned me and there was no one to talk to. Through running, I was able to simply run away from it all. It was my escape. As an adult, I recognize that running is my therapy. My mediation. I go into a trance when I’m running, and nothing else matters.”
Gabriel moves for change, because running changes lives.
Of course, Gabriel's story is about much more than just running. He recently came out as being HIV positive and has been active in HIV/AIDS advocacy work, sharing his personal journey and battling the stigma of living with HIV.
“HIV doesn’t slow me down,” Gabriel says. And he doesn't want it to slow anyone else down.
Gabriel partnered with the Positive Youth Outreach group at the AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT), helping them train for their first running event. He was at the finish line, cheering on the runners with tears in his eyes.
“The group is all so sweet, and it’s easy to work with them,” he said. “This is why running is so precious! We meet such amazing people.”
“Once you find something you love, you’re happy. You also have the power to inspire others.”