The girl who schooled the world on HIV/AIDS

I will never forget watching that video for the first time.

It was one of the most powerful things I've ever seen.

Watch it here:

"It’s impossible to measure just how many people’s lives were moved and lifted for the better by Hydeia" – Oprah Winfrey

Who was Hydeia Broadbent?

Hydeia Broadbent was adopted as a young child, after being abandoned by her biological mother, who suffered from drug addiction, in Nevada.

At 3 years old, her family discovered that she had been HIV-positive since birth.

She then developed acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) – which is caused by untreated HIV.

Doctors told her adoptive parents she wouldn’t make it past the age of 5.

She went on to become one of the leading voices in HIV advocacy worldwide.

On 20th February 2024 — a year ago today — Hydeia passed away, aged 39.

In 30 years, what has changed?

In the mid-1990s, HIV/AIDS was still seen as a death sentence, stigma and misinformation were everywhere, lifesaving treatment was out of reach for most, and activists like Hydeia were fighting desperately to change the narrative.

But how are things now?

• HIV is no longer a death sentence | With treatment, people live full, healthy lives
• U=U | Meds make people undetectable, which makes the virus untransmittable
• More awareness, but still misinformation | Too many still don't know the basics
• Stigma is still widespread | This causes more harm than the virus itself

Why is there still so much stigma?

HIV stigma persists due to misinformation, outdated beliefs, and systemic inequality.

This is especially prevalent in low-awareness communities, religious spaces, healthcare, workplaces, and dating.

Despite U=U proving HIV is untransmittable with treatment, fear, criminalisation, and lack of education keep HIV stigma alive.

Science has moved forward, but society hasn’t fully caught up.

What can we learn from Hydeia?

Hydeia taught us that silence fuels stigma, but education saves lives.

She spoke openly about HIV/AIDS when few dared.

She proved that even one voice can change perceptions.

Her story outlines the importance of knowing your HIV status. (If you don't know yours: get tested)

Her legacy reminds us that awareness, compassion, and advocacy are still needed.

"I can do anything I put my mind to" – Hydeia Broadbent

Above all, Hydeia taught us that it is possible to overcome fear and struggle and shine a light on the world.

If Hydeia can overcome what she went through, at such a young age – so can you.

Written by Hamish Noah – an HIV Advocate and Addiction Recovery Coach from London, UK.

This article also appears in Hamish's LinkedIn newsletter it's that simple – which features tips, insights and inspiration on HIV, addiction and being human.