Elizabeth Taylor Makes Rare Appearance At HIV/AIDS Benefit

Elizabeth Taylor made a brief appearance at the annual Macy's Passport fundraiser in Santa Monica. The event is an annual fundraiser for amFAR with the specific goal to raise money for HIV/AIDS research, care, prevention and education programs. For the past 27 years, the organization has earned $28 million.

The event could not have occurred on a better date -- researchers are this close to securing a vaccine that could prevent the spread of HIV. According a reporter from the Wall Street Journal, results of a trial indicate the vaccine regimen was safe and reduced by 31% the chance of infection.

Legendary actress Dame Elizabeth Taylor, who has been committed to the cause since the early 1980's and helped establish the Passport event, took to the stage to encourage attendees to give. She also spoke of her beloved friend, Michael Jackson and how she would hope we could all "Heal The World" as his song encouraged.

Her commitment to the organization began at a time when most celebrities wanted no association with the disease. She has testified before congress, starred in PSA's and auctioned off her own clothing and jewelry. Using her legendary status and extensive Hollywood connections, she has made Macy's Passport a premiere annual event.

Taylor makes few public appearances, but this was her second since Michael Jackson's private funeral last month. Sharon Stone also returned to flex her auctioneering prowess. La Toya Jackson made an appearance as well, telling press that she wants to continue the goodwill that her brother Michael provided to organizations like amFar.