Hydeia Broadbent, who, at an early age, became a leading voice in the fight against the global HIV/AIDS epidemic, has passed away at the age of 39.
via: BET
Her passing was confirmed by her father, Loren Broadbent, in a post on Facebook.
"With great sadness, I must inform you all that our beloved friend, mentor, and daughter Hydeia, passed away today after living with Aids since birth," his post read. "Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her life, Hydeia remained determined to spread hope and positivity through education around Hiv/AIDS.
Broadbent was abandoned at the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas and, as an infant, was adopted by Loren and Patricia Broadbent. At three years old, she was diagnosed as HIV-positive with advancement to AIDS.
Launching her career as an AIDS activist at six years old, she told her story on numerous national television programs, including “A Conversation with Magic Johnson” on Nickelodeon, "Oprah,” “20/20,” and “Good Morning America.”She also appeared in New York Times, People, Teen People, Essence, Ebony and Sister 2 Sister.
In 1996, she was a speaker at the Republican National Convention, she stated "I am the future, and I have AIDS."
In 2002, her family published a book entitled "You Get Past The Tears," she appeared with her family on “Extreme Home Makeover” in 2004.
Until her passing, she was an international motivational speaker and committed AIDS activist, which was her life's mission.
Since 2014, Broadbent represented the Magic Johnson Foundation as well as other AIDS activist organizations in order “to educate people about HIV/AIDS, raise awareness, and fight discrimination against those living with HIV/AIDS.”
Until her passing, she was an international motivational speaker and committed AIDS activist which was her life's mission.
“People think because I was born with HIV my story does not apply to them. Well, this same disease I am living with is the same disease you can get if you are aware and informed,” Broadbent said. “I use my testimony as a warning of what you don’t want to go through.”
We extend our prayers and deepest condolences to the family and friends of Hydeia Broadbent.
Comments