*HIV/AIDS activist Hydeia Broadbent has passed away of natural causes at age 39.
Essence reports that Broadbent died in her sleep on February 20th. Her father confirmed the sad news in a Facebook post. An earlier EUR report noted that Hydeia was age six when she captivated millions with her message of hope for those living with HIV/AIDS. She appeared on national talk shows such as “The Oprah Winfrey Show” at age 12, as well as PSA’s for MTV, BET and VH1.
A 2018 EUR report by Billie Jordan Sushine states: “By age 12, Broadbent was the face of the AIDS movement, appearing on national programs like the Oprah Winfrey Show and speaking at the Republican National Convention (1996). Broadbent would go on to win numerous awards and recognitions, and receive the key to her city, Las Vegas.”
As Essence reports, Broadbent previously said her “life’s mission” is “to use my life as a prevention tool for those who are HIV negative to make informed decisions to stay HIV negative, and also for those living with HIV/AIDS to find hope and inspiration not to allow HIV or AIDS to hold them back from living their best life,” she said. “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. I use my testimony as a warning of what you don’t want to go through.”
In a post on X/Twitter, HIV activist Rae-Lewis Thorton wrote, “I’m sad to announce that renowned AIDS Activist Hydeia Broadbent passed away today. Over the years our paths crossed so much we became friends. Rest my sister Rest. Your legacy will live forever.”
I’m sad to announce that renowned AIDS Activist Hydeia Broadbent passed away today. Over the years our paths crossed so much we became friends. Rest my sister Rest. Your legacy will live forever. Good and faithful servant well done ❤️🙏🏽 love you Deia pic.twitter.com/1IWoccZ81J
— Rae Lewis-Thornton (@raelt) February 21, 2024
On Facebook, Hydeia’s father, Loren Broadbent, wrote, “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. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout her life, Hydeia remained determined to spread hope and positivity through education around Hiv/AIDS.”
READ MORE: HIV Activist Hydeia Broadbent Launches 35/30 Tour
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