Name Scott Simpson Role Triathlete | Education York University | |
Scott Simpson is a Canadian medal-winning triathlete from Toronto, Ontario, Canada. In September 2006, Simpson became the first HIV+ athlete to ever compete in the Triathlon Age Group World Championships Triathlon Canada.
Simpson attended York University after growing up on a beef farm in southern Ontario. At the age of 33, Scott was diagnosed with HIV infection – but it was not until four years later that he started on life-extending antiretroviral (ARV) medication. The positive effect of the ARVs on Simpson’s health was dramatic. With his newfound vigor, he soon became immersed in one of the most difficult of athletic challenges – triathlon. But with this increased quality of life came the desire to help increase access to ARVs for millions of other HIV+ people around the world. This led to Simpson's involvement with the medical humanitarian nongovernmental organization Dignitas International and the development of the awareness and fundraising campaign Race for Dignity.
Simpson often speaks publicly about living with HIV/AIDS. He has appeared on national and local television and has given numerous interviews on radio and in print.