“To many, AIDS may seem like a distant, abstract idea. My hopes for this presentation are to awaken people to the immediacy of AIDS and to show the potential of AIDS in their own lives and the lives of their loved ones”

The only daughter of Sicilian immigrants, Antoinette Rose Manno was born into a strict, working class, Catholic home in Chicago. That is where the story begins, and from there, Emily continues to take you through her childhood, her hippie days, her addictions, her self loathing, her passion, her marriages, and life with her beloved family. She uses storytelling, pictures, poetry, sometimes songs, and always humor, to paint the picture of the beautiful, vivacious mama, who, like so many of us, would do anything to give and receive love.

The personal aspect of Heart Marks is complimented by practical information and discussion about AIDS, safe-sex, self esteem, self defense, and question and answer times about any of the topics covered; from terminal illness, to women and healthcare, addiction, to losing a loved one, to doing outreach, and so much more. It is able to be tailored to focus on a specific subject depending on the needs of the group.

This workshop and presentation reaches every person deeply, making a long-term, life-long impact on not only their perceptions of what AIDS are, but also who they are, why they choose what they choose, and what compassion is.