Madonna's film; "I Am Because We Are", is an arresting presentation of the impact that HIV/AIDS has had on a small nation in an unfamiliar part of an already devastated continent.

I don't know if she did it to explain to the world what compelled her to adopt a Malawian child in 2006, but I have to think that anyone who sees the film will likely feel compelled to want to do the same. It's an unsettling documentary that was beautifully produced, as one would probably expect, but it's far more unsettling then you would have imagined. It's a story we all know, but one that should be seen none-the-less.

I stand amazed at this extraordinary woman's ability to continue to find relevance in her life and ours, and her ability to continue to inspire us all with her passion and compassion. With so much going on in my life, people often ask me why have I served on the board of amfAR (The Foundation for AIDS Research) now for over 20 years, and have now served as its Chairman for nearly 4, to which I respond:

Virtually every AIDS statistic has grown throughout that period.
A total of 33.2 million people now live with HIV/AIDS.
Every day 6,800 people contract HIV--283 every hour.
In 2007, 2.1 million people died from AIDS.

The only statistic that hasn't grown is the amount of people cured. That remains at zero. That is why amfAR exists, and that is why I do what I do.

Last Thursday night Madonna co-hosted the amfAR event here in Cannes, and with her generous spirit and help from Sharon Stone, we effortlessly separated many celebrated individuals from their disposable incomes, raising over $10 million. Our ability to share Madonna's experience helped make the night that much more meaningful while helping to justify so many of our journeys.