Hello, my name is Michael Henry and I'm a junior biology major at Illinois Wesleyan University. Originally, I'm from a small town of about 1,600 in central Illinois called Teutopolis — home of the Wooden Shoes! I've been active with FACE AIDS since my first year on campus, but my engagement continuously evolves as I learn and witness more about issues regarding HIV/AIDS and global health. I couldn't think of a better organization to bike across the country with than FACE AIDS.
Aside from the opportunity to see the country and challenge myself in a new and exciting way, I get most pumped about the Ride Against AIDS because I think it is an incredible platform to share the lessons I've learned from my externship at an HIV clinic in Nigeria, my work with FACE AIDS, and my experiences volunteering at a clinic for the uninsured in Bloomington-Normal with people across my country. I hope that some of the stories I share will have an impact on the way people view HIV/AIDS and health inequities. This ride will be unlike anything I've ever done before which makes it a little nerve-wracking and at the same time quite exciting. I look forward to sharing the experience with you via the blog, but if you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to e-mail me at mhenry2 [at] iwu.edu.