James Michael Tries always dreamed of becoming a pilot. After completing a Professional Pilot’s degree, he joined the Air Force, where he rose to the rank of Captain. He was preparing to continue his studies to become a Major and command his own aircraft when the news came that he had tested positive for HIV. Though he was able to live out his dream for a short while, his 5 ½ year career in the Air Force came to a sad and unexpected end in 1989, when he became too ill to continue working. Jimmy passed away on October 7th, 1991 just 2 months before his 31st birthday.
His mother, Rita Tries, has walked every year since 1992 in his memory. She continues walking year after year because she knows that her son is with her every step of the way, and that through her efforts, others will benefit. For Rita, AIDS Walk Boston is not a somber event, but rather a day of celebration. On Walk day, she carries with her the love and support of her sponsors and family, and the memories of those we have lost.
Rita and her team, Jimmy’s Team, will be attending their 17th Walk this year on Sunday, June 1st! You can visit her team’s fundraising page by clicking here.
3 responses so far ↓
1 debbie // Mar 31, 2008 at 12:50 pm
I walk for those alive to remind all that the fight is not won. I walk for a cure
2 Marcia Coston // Apr 14, 2008 at 7:24 pm
Tomorrow is my mom’s birthday and she would have been 68 years old, but her life was shorten from AIDS in 1994. I try not to get sad, but here I am now crying as I write this because I miss her so much. That’s why I walk and volunteer, it make me feel better. This is the best year so far I have done raising money for the cause, so far I have raised $870.00 and I haven’t even hit my family up for money yet. Please check out my website!!! I got my granddaughter involved 5 years ago (11 years old) and she loves it. I told her that I walk for my mother and she sees me crying and she hugs me and tells me she loves me and that she is proud of me that I am walking for my mother.
3 Emily // Apr 15, 2008 at 7:43 am
I walk in memory of my friend Joel who died at the age of 30. He was an aspiring fashion designer and jewelry maker.
This is my second walk. I miss him everyday.
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