"Hopes Alive - There is life beyond HIV/AIDS - Join us to make it a reality"
On November 1, 2009, FXB Suraksha made its first presence in the Airtel Delhi Half Marathon (ADHM) which saw the participation of 70 charities running for their cause that they work for in Delhi and other parts of the country. FXB Suraksha along with Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust participated in the Great Delhi Run in a group of around 32 runners to build awareness, raise funds and friends for the cause of children affected by AIDS and poverty. The group members comprised of children from Delhi project whom we support, partners, friends and members from Ishara Puppet Theatre.
The theme of FXB Suraksha for the Delhi marathon event was "Hopes Alive - There is life beyond HIV/AIDS - Join us to make it a reality". Based on the theme, there were five life size characters with a 7 feet tall red ribbon from Ishara Puppet Theatre Trust to spread the message of adopting safe behavior and educating about different modes of HIV transmission. The characters were – man, woman, child, safe blood bottle, safe injecting needles, condom and two hands. The characters illustrated the story of a family who knows and understand the value of life which is why they adopt all the necessary precautions to keep themselves and their children safe from HIV/AIDS. This knowledge is a prerequisite for a secure and happy childhood for all the children. The hand shaped puppets walked at the Left Hand Side and Right Hand Side of the group, first hand symbolized the support that FXB Suraksha extends to the AIDS affected children and families while the second hand solicited support from the society. FXB Suraksha members also held two big banners with five placards portraying FXB Suraksha name and messages advocating the cause of children affected by AIDS and poverty in the country.
Just before the Great Delhi Run, FXB Suraksha group participated in the Kingfisher ishtyle wale prize for the best sensational group running with a theme. FXB Suraksha with Ishara Puppet theatre received the FIRST prize and won prize money of Rs.30, 000/. After winning the prize, the jubilant FXB Suraksha group joined the huge number of people running the 7kms run, Great Delhi Run. The participants were cheered and encouraged by Bollywood celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan, Rahul Bose, Purab Kohli and sporting celebrities like Vijender Singh who added a dash of colour to the event. Former Australian captain Allan Border and Sydney Olympic 400 meter gold medalist Cathy Freeman were the brand ambassadors of the event. Smt. Sheila Dikshit, Chief Minister of New Delhi and Smt. Kiran Bedi were also present to cheer up the runners.
The life size puppet of a condom and a seven feet ribbon were the hit and attraction in the run. The Red Ribbon is an International symbol of HIV and AIDS awareness. It is worn in remembrance of those who have lost their lives to AIDS and demonstrates respect for those who have been bereaved.
FXB Suraksha group was interviewed and covered live on 4 news channels – CNBC- TV 18, Aaj Tak, Sahara Samay, and Doordarshan. FXB Suraksha also featured in the Sunday edition of Delhi times post event coverage. It was a splendid opportunity to showcase the work of FXB Suraksha to the members of the society and sensitize them on the issues related to children affected by AIDS and poverty. FXB Suraksha also sent pre – event press release which was flashed on most of the online news sites.
The Delhi Half marathon was an enriching experience for the runners to tell the world about the cause that is close to our heart and a medium to get people associated with the cause from all walks of life.
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