Hydeia Broadbent, a HIV/AIDS activist who was born with the virus and had dedicated her life to raising awareness and fighting stigma, died on February 20th, 2024, at the age of 39.
Her father, Loren Broadbent, confirmed her death in a Facebook post. He 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.”
Broadbent was one of the first children to be born with HIV in the U.S., after her biological mother, who was a drug addict and a prostitute, gave her up for adoption.
She was diagnosed with HIV at the age of 3, and later developed AIDS at the age of 5. She was not expected to live past the age of 6, but she defied the odds and survived.
Hydeia Broadbent became a public figure and a spokesperson for HIV/AIDS at a young age, appearing on national television shows such as “The Oprah Winfrey Show”, “20/20”, and “Good Morning America”.
She also spoke at various events, such as the 1996 Republican National Convention, the 1997 Essence Awards, and the 2006 International AIDS Conference. She shared her story and her message of hope, education, and prevention with millions of people around the world.
Hydeia Broadbent was an advocate for the rights and needs of people living with HIV/AIDS, especially children and women of color. She founded the Hydeia L. Broadbent Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources to HIV-positive youth and their families.
She also collaborated with other organizations, such as the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, the Magic Johnson Foundation, and the Black AIDS Institute.
During her lifetime, Broadbent was honored with numerous awards and recognitions for her work, such as the Black Achievement Award, Essence Award and American Red Cross Spirit Award. She was also named one of the most influential African Americans by Ebony magazine twice in 2008 and 2011.
Hydeia Broadbent’s death has saddened and shocked many people who knew her or were inspired by her.
Her family, friends, and fans have expressed their condolences and tributes on social media, remembering her as a brave, compassionate, and powerful woman who made a difference in the world.
