We had great faith that with patience, understanding, and education, that my family and I could be helpful in changing their minds and attitudes around.
From Ryan White
I was labeled a troublemaker, my mom an unfit mother, and I was not welcome anywhere.
AIDS can destroy a family if you let it, but luckily for my sister and me, Mom taught us to keep going. Don't give up, be proud of who you are, and never feel sorry for yourself.
Because of the lack of education on AIDS, discrimination, fear, panic, and lies surrounded me.
Rumors of sneezing, kissing, tears, sweat, and saliva spreading AIDS caused people to panic.
My family and I held no hatred for those people because we realized they were victims of their own ignorance.
Entertainers, athletes, and stars started giving me support.
Given six months to live and being the fighter that I am, I set high goals for myself.
This brought on the news media, TV crews, interviews, and numerous public appearances.
Mayor Koch, of New York, was the first public figure to give me support.
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