“With great sadness, I must inform you all that our beloved friend, mentor and daughter Hydeia, passed away today,” her father confirmed.
Hydeia Broadbent, HIV Activist, Dies at 39
Hydeia Broadbent, a lifelong AIDS and HIV activist, has tragically passed away at the age of 39, her family announced.
Her father, Loren Broadbent, confirmed her passing in a heartfelt statement on Facebook. Hydeia had been living with AIDS since birth, but that never hindered her determination to spread hope and positivity through education about HIV/AIDS.
Advocacy from an Early Age
Hydeia Broadbent, who was born with HIV in 1984, began her journey as an advocate for raising awareness about the virus during her early years. As a guest on renowned TV shows such as “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and “Good Morning America,” Hydeia captured national attention at the tender age of 11. She also had the opportunity to speak at the 1996 GOP convention in San Diego, California.
From Abandonment to Inspiration
Hydeia Broadbent’s journey began in an act of kindness as she was adopted at birth by her loving and caring parents, who discovered her abandoned at the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada in Las Vegas. Unfortunately, at the age of three, Hydeia was diagnosed with HIV, but she continued to inspire others.
Continuing the Fight
As part of her commitment to education and awareness, Hydeia Broadbent partnered with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation to advocate and bring attention to AIDS prevention and advocacy campaigns like the impactful “God Loves Me” billboard campaign. She tirelessly devoted her time to spreading the message of HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention, promoting abstinence, safe-sex practices, and overall understanding of the virus.
Understanding HIV
HIV, the human immunodeficiency virus, attacks the immune system and, if left untreated, can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are nearly 1.2 million people living with HIV in the United States, and an alarming proportion of approximately 13% are unaware of their infection.
Legacy of Hope
Prior to her untimely passing, Hydeia Broadbent expressed her lasting message of empowerment through her HIV/AIDS awareness platform. She reminded everyone that life should never be seen as over until the final breath, and that we are all responsible for the choices we make. She challenged each and every individual to be accountable for their actions.
Funeral Arrangements
Details regarding Hydeia Broadbent’s funeral arrangements are not known at this time.
About the Author
Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for Highly Respectable News. She can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Twitter: @nataliealund.
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