25 Stories of LifeWalk: Dan Gueths

Dan Gueths is celebrating his 20th year of walking, supporting, and helping organize LifeWalk. Not only has he been a co-chair for the event, but he has come back year-after-year as a vital part of the LifeWalk Steering Committee. We know that LifeWalk would not run as smoothly as it does each year without his support and leadership. As a member of the Guys & Dolls LifeWalk Team, Dan gives back to the community in so many ways - through his time, talent, and resources.

LifeWalk sat down with Dan Gueths and asked him why he thought it was so important to be involved with the HIV/AIDS community. Here was his response:

I became involved with LifeWalk when two very good friends at work became sick within months of each other. They both passed very quickly, one within a year and the other within a few years. In 1994, everyone at work was so supportive, and most continue to give in remembrance of those that passed so long ago, even though they no longer see the direct impact. Over the years, I’ve seen a number of friends, national, and local public figures pass from this disease. For 20 years, I’ve watched the community evolve and change. We’ve been so impacted by this disease, but everyone still comes out and moves forward.

When AIDS arrived in the 80’s and early 90’s, it was labeled as “Gay Cancer” – the gay man’s disease. It was first associated with the gay community, and the LGBT community had to come together to raise awareness and money to take care of ourselves, because no one else was. I remember the first articles about AIDS in the Dallas Voice – it spoke about lesbians joining together to support their gay male friends – we were all in it together.

Today, the HIV community is growing and expanding, it is so much bigger than the LGBT community; however, because of our long history, it is still so important that we continue to lead the way in awareness and outreach. We cannot become complacent simply because it is now a manageable disease. Just getting medication is a small part – people today do not see the way it affects your entire life and welfare. It is incredibly important for everyone to be involved and to help nurture ourselves and others. - Dan Gueths

In 2013, Dan Gueths was honored with the 2013 Heart & Hands Award - This award is given to an individual who epitomizes the Heart and Hands of the AIDS Arms and LifeWalk – giving of their time, talent and treasure in immeasurable ways. Thank you, Dan, for all the amazing things you do!