Dignitas International's Race for Dignity Challenge Raises Over $285,000 for HIV/AIDS in Africa

On Saturday, June 23, thousands of people converged on Toronto's Yonge-Dundas Square for Dignitas International's Race for Dignity Challenge, raising over $285,000 for HIV/AIDS programming in Africa.

The 12-hour spinathon on stationary bikes featured 30 teams comprising over 220 cyclists, as well as 12 hours of live onstage entertainment, including over 20 international and Juno Award-winning musical acts. Special guests throughout the day included MP Peggy Nash, Sarah Barrable-Tishauer of Degrassi: The Next Generation, Toronto City Councillor Kyle Rae, MP Olivia Chow, Ontario Minister of Health George Smitherman, Canadian television personality Mag Ruffman, Race for Dignity Founder and Ironman triathlete Scott Simpson, and Dignitas Co-Founder and Executive Director James Fraser.

"The Race for Dignity Challenge was a huge success - the energy and
enthusiasm of everyone involved was incredibly inspiring," said Fraser. "This
event provided an opportunity for Canadians to have a direct impact on the
lives of people affected by AIDS in Africa. The funds raised will go towards
programs that increase access to essential medical care and life-saving
medications in the Zomba District of Malawi. Access to treatment in Malawi
equals hope - and a future - for the thousands of people living with HIV."

Presented this year by BMO Financial Group, the Race for Dignity
Challenge has established itself as a growing grassroots event with support
from corporate sponsors, private funders, public officials, celebrities,
students, activists, artists, medical professionals and private sector actors.
Dignitas thanks the corporate sponsors, spinners, donors, volunteers and
entertainers who contributed to the event.

Dignitas International is a medical humanitarian organization working
with communities to dramatically increase access to life-saving treatment and
prevention in areas overwhelmed by HIV/AIDS. Founded by a group of
international health and research experts, Dignitas is led by Dr. James
Orbinski, who accepted the 1999 Nobel Peace Prize as International President
of Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF/Doctors Without Borders). Dignitas is saving
lives in Malawi, Africa, with sustainable, community-based HIV/AIDS
programming to be replicated throughout the developing world.

For further information: Kathe Rogers, Communications Coordinator, (416)
260-3100 x 113, or k.rogers@dignitasinternational.org