Fight against AIDS - Austria / II. Republic of Austria 2004 - 55 Euro Cent

Aids is the new scourge of humanity. Despite intensive efforts, research has only been able to extend the life expectancy of those infected with HIV or AIDS but can not overcome the disease. The fight against the immune deficiency disease devours enormous amounts every year. People who seek to raise money for research have to deal with the suppression of the problem, those with social exclusion, isolation and discrimination. But AIDS is a disease that can literally affect anyone, not just drug addicts or homosexuals. No region, no social class and no age group are spared. Gery Keszler and Dr. med. Torgom Petrosian founded the Aids Life Association in 1992 to raise funds to fight AIDS. On May 29, 1993, the first LIFE BALL took place in the Vienna City Hall, which Gery Keszler has been organizing every year since then. The net profit of this association, which has become an integral part of social life with the help of numerous sponsors, is shared by Aids Life with aid organizations. Hundreds of journalists, dozens of TV and radio stations and other media report on the major event each year. The international fashion world supports AIDS research at every Life Ball with a spectacular fashion show by top designers such as Missoni, Jean-Paul Gaultier or Paco Rabanne. Famous supermodels perform the creations of the designers on the catwalk together with prominent personalities from home and abroad. The catwalk has the shape of the Aids loop and offers a gigantic feast for the eyes and the senses against the backdrop of the Vienna City Hall to over 4,000 visitors. The Life Ball is one of the largest charity events in the world and in contrast to all other traditional ball events in Vienna a shrill, colorful and extravagant party with a lot of bare skin. Österreichische Post AG supports the good cause in 2004 with 10 cents per special stamp sold ,