Princess Stephanie and World AIDS Day

As everyone knows, HSH Princess Stephanie of Monaco has adopted the victims of AIDS as the primary focus of her many charitable efforts. Yesterday was World AIDS Day and Princess Stephanie has been very busy, for many days ahead of time, getting ready for the one day each year when global attention is focused on a problem she cares deeply about. Monday found her at Monaco's Harley Motor Club where, in cooperation with the big hearted bikers, she presented three counterpanes that pay tribute to people who have died from AIDS. For those not into sewing and such things, counterpanes are basically the fabric blocks that make up a patchwork quilt. These will be sent to the Names Project AIDS Memorial quilt in the United States shortly.

Wednesday Princess Stephanie, along with Prince Albert and Princess Charlene, were at the Sporting Club to collect their share of the winnings from the casinos. By special agreement a portion of all money from the slot machines at the Casino Cafe de Paris and Sun Casino Jackpots are donated to Monaco-based charities, including, of course, a percentage going to Fight AIDS Monaco among others. Prince Albert II initiated this policy last year, ensuring that, if gambling is a vice, it can at least be one that benefits those in need.

On Thursday night, Princess Stephanie was at the Hotel Meridien Beach Plaza for the annual charity auction, along with Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene with part of the benefits going to Fight AIDS Monaco. The items for sale included a sketch by famed actor Robert Redford, a large wedding portrait of Prince Albert and Princess Charlene as well as a bust of Princess Stephanie (I would have bid a few large for that) which went for over 100,000 euros (so I would have lost). Princess Stephanie is really tireless when it comes to this issue and she is very passionate about it. She's a real champion.