Get your tissues. But also, get ready to spend the next several minutes with a couple whose hearts are literally spilling over with love.
When Davey Wavey signed on to take part in the 2015 AIDS/Lifecycle as a Gay Travel Guru, he wasn't sure what to expect of who his video would feature. That changed quickly when he met David and Talana Flanagan, a couple whose son died of AIDS just months after being diagnosed in 2013. He had planned to take part on the AIDS/Lifecycle in 2015, so they're riding in his honor.
We chatted with Davey about his experiences on the ride and with the Flanagans. Read about the week he spent in the "love bubble" and watch the Flanagans moving story here.
GayTravel.com: Tell us a little about the family you're featuring in your AIDS/LIfecycle video.
Davey Wavey: I was fortunate to spend time with David and Talana Flanagan. They're a lovely couple from the small town of Clifton, TX. Back in 2013, just a few months after being diagnosed as HIV-positive, their 28 year-old son died from AIDS. His name was Joshua and was supposed to be riding in the 2015 AIDS/LifeCycle, so David and Talana decided to do the ride in his honor.
What struck you most about them?
2013 wasn't long ago. For the Flanagans, the wounds are still fresh. There is still a lot of healing ahead for them. But at the same time, they are incredibly warm and full of love. Despite everything that they've been through, their hearts haven't hardened. In fact, it feels like quite the contrary.
What were you expecting when you signed up to be a part of the AIDS/Lifecycle?
I had no idea what to expect. AIDS/LifeCycle is a huge event, but admittedly, I knew very little - other than that I'd be spending a lot of time on a bike. As it turns out, beyond being a crucial fundraiser for HIV and AIDS-related work, AIDS/LifeCycle is a 545-mile bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Each year, a few thousand riders take part - and it's an extraordinary experience for everyone, gay, straight or otherwise.
As a YouTuber, you've traveled to many incredible places and interviewed fascinating and inspiring people. What was different about this experience?
Well, a lot of things were different. For one, you were on a bike. Biking is not my typical mode of transportation, and it was interesting seeing the world from a new perspective. I was also surprised by how sore my butt was. All those miles really take a toll.
What surprised you most about Lifecycle?
More than anything, I was surprised by the amount of love that you felt at the AIDS/LifeCycle. They call it the "love bubble" and that's exactly what it is. It's an awesome group of supportive, inclusive people that welcome you with open arms. I've never seen anything like it.
What attracted you to the idea of becoming a Gay Travel Guru?
I'm gay. And I love to travel. That's a great start! And sharing my adventures with my audience on YouTube and social media has become one of my passions, so teaming up with GayTravel.com seemed like an obvious fit.
