The global epidemic continues to expand and infect millions of people around the world. However, alarming numbers have been recorded for South Africa. It is said that millions have died and hundreds continue to die every week. It does not help that there is a total lack of health care and education that would be enough to stop the growing numbers of the affected population. Thousands are orphaned and still many children are born already with AIDS.

Countries, nations, people have moved up to help. And the TV show American Idol 2007 has gone to do its part in this endeavor.

Simon and Ryan visited Africa and witnessed the extremely poor conditions that the people were living in. They saw, felt and tasted the sickness that engulfed the nation. See the TV event here at American Idol.com.

I watched and swallowed in pain. Not because I know these helpless people but because of the reality that I am here, living a good life while they watch their husbands, mothers, and children die. I complain that women are still not treated fairly in this country and realize that women in Africa are not treated fairly - AT ALL. The social stigma that comes with having AIDS is enough to deprive them of medical assistance or the moral assistance that would have given them strength to battle the disease.

And as I watched, the video of Carrie Underwood played… I could have cried as I watched the devastation the song sang to. And while this event will mark Carrie’s version of I’ll stand by you timeless, her version I find more heart-wrenching than the original one by the Pretender’s.

What can you do? Support American Idol gives back and make a donation here.

When you’re standing at the crossroads, don’t know which path to choose,
Let me come along, cause even if your wrong
I’ll stand by you, I’ll stand by you, won’t let nobody hurt you,
I’ll stand by you.

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