By Jennifer Morton, Managing Editor

Last May, I turned 50. The number of COVID-19 cases and deaths were steadily rising, and we didn’t know when a vaccine might be available. It was no time to celebrate—I just hoped I’d make it to 51. I had a small Zoom gathering with some friends and was grateful we could connect virtually with one another.

A year later, we’re still battling the coronavirus, but hope is on the horizon. To date, more than 1 billion doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been administered worldwide, and in the United States, more than 250 million doses have been given. We still have a long way to go, since COVID-19 isn’t over for anybody until it’s over for everybody, but having a vaccine is something to celebrate.

And what better way to celebrate than an action-packed game of bingo hosted by legendary drag queen Linda Simpson?  

Please join me and Esther McGowan, the executive director of Visual AIDS, for a fun-filled evening of laughs, thrills and incredible prizes at our joint birthday celebration, which is also a fundraiser for Visual AIDS. The event takes place Wednesday, May 19, at 8 p.m. ET, and for every $25 donation, you’ll receive one bingo card.

It’s an opportunity to virtually connect with one another to celebrate, laugh and support the important work of Visual AIDS. Founded in 1988, the organization supports the work of HIV-positive artists and uses art as a tool to raise awareness about HIV and AIDS. As a former board member, I’ve seen the powerful impact art can have on individuals and communities. The Visual AIDS Artist+ Registry is the largest database of works by artists with HIV/AIDS and is a unique resource to inspire and educate the public about HIV.

Visual AIDS artist member Curtis “Curtsy” Carman will also be on hand as a spokesmodel to showcase the fabulous prizes Linda has in store for the evening’s winners. Check out her Instagram for past prizes.

We hope you can make it. There’s a “free space” waiting for you. 

Click here to make a donation and to register to play.

Courtesy of Jennifer Morton