text:
Fame and HIV: History's Biggest HIV-Positive Celebrities
November 17, 2015
This article was provided by TheBody.com.
Comment by: Ralphie (Philadelphia ) Mon., Jul. 4, 2016 at 12:07 pm UTC
The celebrities in this article having HIV/AIDS is common knowledge. No news here. I wasted a click... Yawnnnn
Comment by: Lisa Tue., Apr. 26, 2016 at 10:50 am UTC
People are so wrong. About. HIV I know someone why got it via blood trasnfussion in 1981 and 'till this day she still. Alive and well sell cause of the meds cocktail. They have today 🎈
Comment by: Sharon M. (Norfolk VA) Thu., Apr. 21, 2016 at 2:13 pm UTC
NO mention of my favorite celebrity who died of AIDS-perhaps AIDS-related complications, Rudolf Nureyev, who, in my humble opinion, was the greatest male ballet dancer of 20th c. Died in 1993, I think, and though he never acknowledged he had the disease, it is rather common knowledge. (?)
Comment by: Sheila G (Plymouth, MA) Sat., Apr. 16, 2016 at 2:14 pm UTC
You did not include Amanda Blake (Gunsmoke) who got the disease from her husband.
Comment by: william mc mullan (belfastUK) Fri., Feb. 12, 2016 at 6:29 am UTC
i am hiv positive,and i miss all the stars above
Comment by: Peace Brutha Jerome (Boston, MA) Mon., May. 4, 2015 at 11:39 pm UTC
Terrible what's going on here. Yes, I am the famous Rapper, and yes, I am a humanitarian, so I will donate to the cause.
You cannot have unprotected sex, that is a fact, ok? So get with the program, I'm not asking you, I'm telling you! Peace out
Comment by: Hazel (Nelspruit mpumalanga) Tue., Mar. 31, 2015 at 6:34 am UTC
Where is ds sickness come from eish is a pity
Comment by: Sophy (Bloemfontein SA) Tue., Feb. 10, 2015 at 3:56 pm UTC
Ppl shud take care of themselves goin forward it dnt mean if thy got da virus its the end its not curable yes but definatley treatable so as Celebrities thy can also influence positivity on their status after all thy are humanz too
Comment by: Sozie Danielz (Los angelos, ca) Wed., Jan. 21, 2015 at 7:27 pm UTC
Thankz this helped me with my annotating.
Comment by: asha (Jamaica) Sat., Jan. 3, 2015 at 6:36 pm UTC
Wow magic Johnson
Comment by: Fabio (Los Angeles, CA) Sun., Dec. 28, 2014 at 9:57 pm UTC
Don't forget the Heavy Weight Boxer Tommy Morrison who was in Rocky IV. He was in denial when he found out his diagnosis, and essentialy gave up living.
Comment by: Kirk (LA, CA) Sun., Dec. 28, 2014 at 4:53 pm UTC
Handful of knows with a batch of unknowns....
Comment by: Dan Humphrey (College Station, TX) Fri., Dec. 26, 2014 at 10:09 pm UTC
One of the greatest art film directors of the late 70s, 80s, and early 90s died of HIV related illnesses in 1994. He was the equal of these people, in my opinion, and he was forthright about his HIV status almost from the moment he received his test results.
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Comment by: kelvin (negerian) Fri., Dec. 19, 2014 at 3:54 pm UTC
Comment by: Jeremy (Pittsburgh, PA) Wed., Dec. 17, 2014 at 10:57 am UTC
I was always surprised that Magic Johnson was treated as a hero. He was a married man who slept around and betrayed his family. Getting AIDs while doing this does not make one a hero.
Comment by: Sharon Caudell (louisville,ky) Sun., Dec. 14, 2014 at 11:43 am UTC
Do the RIGHT THING PEOPLE!!!!!
Comment by: ewy (needles) Fri., Dec. 12, 2014 at 1:08 pm UTC
Comment by: invisibleman1515 (Florida) Fri., Dec. 12, 2014 at 11:50 am UTC
Had no idea Asimov's death was AIDs related
Comment by: Debbie Williams (Mayodan NC) Tue., Dec. 9, 2014 at 8:22 am UTC
Amanda Blake (Miss Kitty on Gunsmoke) also died from AIDS related causes. It was reported she was infected after having a blood transfusion. Just thought she should be included here too.
Comment by: maribel (San antonio ) Mon., Dec. 8, 2014 at 9:50 pm UTC
Comment by: beyondliberal (Ojai CA) Sun., Nov. 30, 2014 at 6:37 pm UTC
What about Amanda Blake? She was one of the first female celebrities to die from AIDS.
Comment by: Michael (Hamilton,NY) Thu., Nov. 27, 2014 at 12:25 am UTC
You would have had a longer story had you printed about Fame and the Stars That Have Herpes.
Comment by: Sionnach (Fair Hill, MD) Wed., Nov. 26, 2014 at 2:30 pm UTC
You do Elizabeth Glaser's memory a huge dis-service by failing to mention that her HIV was NOT contracted via sexual activity, but via a contaminated blood transfusion. I'm also puzzled that you fail to mention that her "celebrity status" consisted of being married to the actor Paul Michael Glaser, and that both he and their son Jake remain active in HIV prevention and education.
Comment by: Allison (Dallas, tx) Wed., Nov. 26, 2014 at 10:14 am UTC
WhaT about Annie Lennox ? She's Been completely open about her diagnosis, wears the tshirt and never hides from it. Probably been more globally out about it in public than so many, even getting married a few years ago. Hardly a televised concert goes on where she's not showing off. Very open.
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Comment by: Veronica Moore (New York , NY) Wed., Nov. 19, 2014 at 7:24 pm UTC
You forgot to add Ryan White.
Comment by: Oliver downs (essex) Fri., Mar. 28, 2014 at 12:52 pm UTC
i think this website is so good
Comment by: Ann (17 helen ct.cahokia ill.) Sat., Jan. 18, 2014 at 3:51 pm UTC
All these ppl. Are missed dearly.
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Comment by: mike (baltimore) Sat., Jan. 11, 2014 at 3:44 pm UTC
No mention of former heavyweight champ and co star of Rocky IV Tommy Morrison?
Comment by: Jeff (Milwaukee) Fri., Dec. 20, 2013 at 11:37 am UTC
Actors Michael Jeter, Jm J.Bullock, Ray Sharkey, and Playboy Playmate Rebekka Armstrong.
Comment by: rhonda (ky) Mon., Dec. 16, 2013 at 11:55 pm UTC
Comment by: Vince Andrews (Atlanta) Sat., Nov. 30, 2013 at 1:22 am UTC
Somewhat famous was Tommy Morrison of Rocky 5. He announced in 1996 that he was HIV positive and was soon banned from professional boxing.
Comment by: terry (new orleans, la) Sat., Nov. 16, 2013 at 3:44 pm UTC
i'd like to add the actor brad davis to the list. he was pretty well-known before his death, most notable for the film "midnight express". wonderfully talented actor, gone way too soon.
Comment by: MDA (canada America) Fri., Apr. 19, 2013 at 7:23 am UTC
Losing Freddie Mercury is the greatest loss the world ever had
RIP freddie
You will always be remembered in our hearts.:-|
Comment by: blackwind (san antonio) Mon., Mar. 25, 2013 at 5:30 pm UTC
the celebrities who died by aids are listed alphabetically and include the famous aids victimsâ hometowns and biographical info about them when available. The list you're viewing is made up of many different items, like Al Parker and Liberace. These notable aids deaths include modern and long-gone famous men and women, from politicians to religious leaders to writers. Everyone on this list has has aids as a cause of death somewhere in their public records, even if it was just one contributing factor for their death.
Comment by: Emily (jersey city, nj) Mon., Feb. 25, 2013 at 6:32 pm UTC
thx for having great information and i hpoe you find some type of cure
Comment by: Funmi Gaji (Lagos, Nigeria) Wed., Feb. 20, 2013 at 1:48 am UTC
Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.. Died of pneumonia arising from AIDS complication.
Comment by: Kenneth paul (Kampala) Thu., Jan. 10, 2013 at 9:04 am UTC
Comment by: rose (portland,or) Sat., Dec. 22, 2012 at 1:13 pm UTC
my daughter pass away on 12/07/2012 from aids, she was only 34 and she died from natural causes and she was diagnosed at the age of 18. she refused to believe she had hiv
Comment by: Anonymous Wed., Aug. 22, 2012 at 4:37 pm UTC
Asimov got from blood tranfusion
Comment by: David (Fairfax, VA) Sun., Jul. 29, 2012 at 3:01 pm UTC
How come no new celebrities have contracted the HIV virus since the time Magic came out?
Comment by: mary j. (kingston ny) Fri., Jul. 6, 2012 at 7:02 pm UTC
I don't understand why the has to know stars business it is not important in our life to know that.
Comment by: Gary (Houston, TX) Tue., Jan. 10, 2012 at 5:26 pm UTC
What about Rudolf Nureyev?
Comment by: Alice (Baltimore, MD) Mon., Jan. 9, 2012 at 3:33 pm UTC
Howard Ashman who wrote "Little Shop of Horrors" and many songs for Disney. What a talent, gone from Aids. So so sad.
Comment by: D Man (Chicago) Sun., Jan. 8, 2012 at 8:20 pm UTC
It is unfortunate that most of the pictures shown of HIV celebrities are dead. This inadvertently confirms the hostility and discrimination still running rampid about HIV and people living with HIV.
Comment by: Judy Perry (San Diego, CA) Sun., Jan. 1, 2012 at 1:28 am UTC
Chuck Panozzo, bassist and original member of the rock band Styx.
Comment by: Rockhound (Conway, Arkansas) Sat., Dec. 31, 2011 at 4:52 pm UTC
It is sad to see so many talented people brought down by this illness. Not everyone who is HIV positive is gay,it can be transmitted through contaminated blood or body fluids. Perhaps one day they will find a cure. Don't be afraid to interact with someone just because they are HIV positive, now more than ever they will need all the support of family and friends that they can get.
Comment by: jane doe (san diego) Sat., Dec. 31, 2011 at 12:06 pm UTC
Actor Jason Gould,son of Barbra Strisand and Elliot Gould has been HIV+ for some time now
according to news?
Comment by: Taylor S. (Brooklyn, NY) Fri., Dec. 30, 2011 at 12:55 pm UTC
AIDS is a terminal illness. There is no cure people. It makes me angry to hear some in the media refer to it as a chronic illness. Even with meds, a parent can not be the patient and best parent they can be. Today, people should be frightened enough to understand that our behavior can determine whether or not we get HIV/AIDS.
Other than by incest and/or rape which should warrant the perp life in prison in solitary confinement without treatment (mo meds) as penalty, today in Western countries there simply is no reason to become infected. Let common sense override sexual urges. Let's become mentally and physically fit societies for next generations.
Comment by: Henry (Los Angeles) Fri., Dec. 30, 2011 at 5:45 am UTC
Magic Johnson's situation is an example of money being a major point in his battle. Millions of people in the world could have been saved had they had the ecomonic access that Johnson has had. Also, Johnson's timing meaning had his contraction and theraphy occured 3-5 years earlier-he would have died long ago. Timing is everything-along with BIG BUCKS.
But, I do commend him for stepping up to his getting the disease. I am sure someone in family or advisors pointed to revealing his situation.
Comment by: Armydicked (San Francisco, CA) Fri., Dec. 30, 2011 at 4:31 am UTC
There is no Cure for AIDS. The best that the cocktails can do in 2011 is build up your T-Counts so that opportunistic infections won't cause your body to crash. What gets my blood boiling is that people are labouring under the false assumption that since AIDs is manageable, you don't have to worry about it and we can pretend its 1976 in the Castro. BIG WRONG!!!
You are only being told PART of the truth by big Pharma. YES, the modern cocktails will raise your T-Cell counts and YES you only have to now take one pill a day.
What they DONT TELL YOU is that the cocktails will do a number on your other organs and that as many as 20% of POS pill poppers will die of other problems within 3-5 years (blown liver, Pancreus, kidneys, etc.).
We had a Gay Lawyer and a Down Low Brotha at work who religiously took their meds and died within two years of diagnosis. AIDS didn't kill them; the side effects did.
Me? No condom, No dental dam---no dance. I've had women complain that having sex with me is about as romantic as a trip to the gyno. Or that they're on the pill and they 'ARE NOT DIRTY' or trying to entrap me. So what---I can stuff other holes out there; I don't need to be stuffing HER HOLE!!!
Comment by: Vee W. (Atlanta, Ga) Thu., Dec. 29, 2011 at 3:33 pm UTC
Mondo Guerra from Project Runway is also living with AIDS and is a public spokesperson about the disease.
Comment by: Mike (Central FL) Thu., Dec. 29, 2011 at 12:49 pm UTC
Why is it that one of the earliest, most famous victims of aids is NEvER mentioned or discussed.
Western star actor JOHN WAYNE died of symptoms generally described as AIDS but his cause of death was always described as "some form of cancer" not always the same. carposi's sarcoma looked most likely, a form of cancer almost exclusively associatd with AIDS.
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Comment by: GAKnight (Atlanta, GA) Thu., Dec. 29, 2011 at 12:09 pm UTC
What a marvelous article. I have several friends who are thankfully still living with AIDs.
Comment by: Rajni Gagnon (San Francisco, CA) Thu., Dec. 29, 2011 at 1:46 am UTC
Fela Anikulapa Kuti, Musician, Political Activist, Icon, from Nigeria, Died of AIDS in 1997.
Comment by: hb (south florida) Wed., Dec. 28, 2011 at 10:19 am UTC
Can't die of something you don't have. Never believed he was HIV positive and still don't!!
Comment by: Mama Mia (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) Wed., Dec. 28, 2011 at 8:49 am UTC
Did Elizabeth Taylor have the virus?
Comment by: angel c. (valdosta, GA) Wed., Dec. 28, 2011 at 3:47 am UTC
AIDS have taken sooo many people that i love away from me. i think its sad that people still dont get how preventale AIDS IS. 90 people got the swine flu and we all started wearing mask. millions die from AIDS and no one wants to wear a condom. SAD R. I P. MY AUNT ROXY who died in 1993 at the age of 36. she found out she was positive in august of 93 and was so vain by not wanting to be stigmatized by family and friends she died October 17,1993. we didn't know she was positive until two days before she died by my mom reading her chart. her only sister now its 3 other family members that have it. and all i think about is that she could still be here if she got treatment.
Comment by: jo turner (south carolina) Tue., Dec. 27, 2011 at 11:20 pm UTC
there is a man I can't recall his name but he died from aids a few years back. I am going to find out the name of the show, I think maybe picket fences.
Comment by: Betty J. (Pearl Ms.) Tue., Dec. 27, 2011 at 4:35 pm UTC
May God continue to strenghten each and everyone in health and in knowledge. Thank you all for raising awareness to the young as well as the older generation. Happy Holidays to You and Your Families...
Comment by: Dan (San Jose, CA) Tue., Dec. 27, 2011 at 4:20 pm UTC
Tommy Gunn comes to mind as a pseudo-celebrity with HIV. He was a boxer and played a lead role in Rocky VI, but later claimed that he is cured.
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Comment by: sharon (rockford, il) Tue., Dec. 27, 2011 at 1:43 pm UTC
I've heard of most of these. I know most think of this as a "gay" disease, but some of the people mentioned here contracted it other ways...Arthur Ash, for example, I understand was through a blood transfusion.
Comment by: Ivan (Seattle) Tue., Dec. 27, 2011 at 5:48 am UTC
You forgot about Fashion designer Willie Smith (whose label Williwear was like a rocket in the mid-1980's). Additionally, i always wonder if AIDS was the real killer of Luther Vandross. As was stated in the case of Alvin Ailey, the black community is especially unforgiving of its gay men, and Luther must have known this. But it was also well-known that he was gay.
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Comment by: Marlene L. (North Fort Myers, FL) Mon., Dec. 26, 2011 at 8:35 pm UTC
I am disappointed to not see Ryan White included on this list. He may not have been famous prior to his diagnosis but his courage in the face of overwhelming opposition made him a great young man, and very famous.
Comment by: Just Me (Los Angeles,CA) Sun., Dec. 25, 2011 at 9:23 am UTC
Been living with HIV for four yrs
I still have yet to tell my family
and friends..
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Comment by: Marlene (North Fort Myers, FL) Mon., Dec. 26, 2011 at 8:36 pm UTC
I am sorry that you are unable to share this with those who are close to you. You need their support. Peace and good health to you.
Comment by: ur nuts (davenport, iowa) Fri., Dec. 30, 2011 at 12:26 pm UTC
Dude seriously, there is no excuse to hide and be a coward. You have to let people know. Some people will support you, some won't. You got this through the will of god and you can't run from the will of god. Accept it, talk about it, deal with it. Make a difference by helping others, don't hide.
Comment by: Jay B. Born (Atlanta) Fri., Dec. 23, 2011 at 10:14 am UTC
Media hype sex and sexuality, but they fail to effectively cover the down side of sex: STDs that can ruin a person's life. Also, no one wants to talk about the alarming increase in sex-related cancers due to risky sexual practices (anal and oral sex). This is for women as well as men. Many women are urged by their male partners to have anal sex when they should carefully re-think this.
Comment by: Anthony (Atlanta, GA ) Fri., Dec. 23, 2011 at 12:37 am UTC
You forgot about Howard Ellsworth Rollins, Jr. (October 17, 1950 December 8, 1996) an American television, film, and stage actor. He is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Coalhouse Walker, Jr. in the film Ragtime, and as Virgil Tibbs on the NBC/CBS television series In the Heat of the Night.
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Comment by: Diane (Atlanta, GA) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 6:54 pm UTC
Howard Ashman died of AIDS in 1991. He was a brilliant lyricist, known best for "The Little Mermaid", "Beauty and the Beast" and "Little Shop of Horrors", as well as other songs penned for "Aladdin". I always tear up when I read the dedication at the end of "Beauty and the Beast": "To our friend Howard, who gave a mermaid her voice and a beast his soul."
Comment by: Ronald F. (Lansing, MI) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 1:44 pm UTC
Magic, don't give up hope, I'm ruting for you as well as a lot of your homees. I believe that this desease can be defeated, and that it's just a matter of time before it happens. I really don't know that much about AID'S, but I do know a little about the human body. Drink a lot of alkaline water and also take your vitamins to help boost your immune system. Keep yourself strong, and above all keep a prayer in your heart at all times. I'll be researching as much as possible, and though I'm not a doctor; I will continue to study herbs and remedies that combat certain bodily reactions. If I should come up with anything, I will try to get in touch with you to let you know that I'm seriously concerned for your well being. I can still remember you as a homee, and the person who took the Los Angles Lakers to the championship in his rookee year while playing a substitute position as Center. You're a true champion, so keep your head up; and let's see if you can continue to be the champion that you were chosen to be.
In all sincerity
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Comment by: Annie W. (Camden, New Jersey) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 1:32 pm UTC
Please add the life and career of Gil Scott Heron. He continued to provide and share his incredible music and knowledge with the world even during his illness. He should also be honored for living his life for many years with HIV/AIDS.
Comment by: david (san diego, california) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 7:41 am UTC
bill goldsworthy was the only professional ice hockey player to have been diagnosed with hiv and later died from AIDS complications.. "goldy" played 11 seasons with the minnesota north stars and the new york rangers in the national hockey league.. (nhl)
related.. http://twoforflinchingfiveforfighting.blogspot.com/2011/12/aids-and-nhl.html
~ cheers..
Comment by: Wali W. (Jonesboro GA ) Wed., Dec. 21, 2011 at 10:42 pm UTC
I always pray for Magic J. He is my hero!!
Peace and blessings!!!!!!
Comment by: Jim G. (Santa Fe, NM) Wed., Dec. 21, 2011 at 6:46 pm UTC
Ole news. Why don't you post some of the recent hiv diagnosed celebrities. Th one who are still alive. Glad you got Magic in there but, Freddie Mercury , Arthur Ashe, they are all dead sadly. but now many are virtually cured thry new meds and will be around for a long time. This piece doesn't reflect the present. Like Magic Jonson. He hasn't had ONE BAD DAY as a result of his diagnosis. Just ask his former Laker coach.
Comment by: Larry H (Long Beach, CA) Wed., Dec. 21, 2011 at 5:54 pm UTC
The HIV test also reads positive to Hepatitis C infections and other conditions. Was Magic Johnson ever tested or treated for Hepatitis C?
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Comment by: Darby D. (Little Rock,Arkansas) Wed., Dec. 21, 2011 at 4:31 pm UTC
Does anyone realize HIV/AIDS has no cure,it gets worse as it takes over the body?
Comment by: ladytrust (albany ny) Wed., Dec. 21, 2011 at 12:41 pm UTC
i think my mom died of aids in the mid 80s. although she was never diagnosed, she had all the symtoms. for about 10 years before her death, she received about 45 blood transfusions to treat her leukemia. this was a time when blood was not tested before transfusing it to the patient.
Comment by: Daphne s. (Maryland) Wed., Dec. 21, 2011 at 12:01 pm UTC
One should always have faith in God ,keep his laws take God seriously. Now men knows it is not only women that could fall into these type of things one has to be careful i am divorced but i refuse to date because i am so afraid i want a commitment not a one night stand that would bring me problems in the future i have children to think about. mat the Lord have mercy on them
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Comment by: Deborah W. (Washington, DC) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 10:00 am UTC
While one night stands increase your chances of getting HIV/AIDS, committed relationships do not exempt you from getting the disease. There are married people who have gotten the disease from their spouses. Committed relationships, yes, but get to know the person really well (how well can you really know someone) before sleeping with them. Also the both of you should go together to get tested.
Comment by: big O (new york, NY) Wed., Dec. 21, 2011 at 11:53 am UTC
ryan white should be mentioned
Comment by: Cathy (San Diego) Wed., Dec. 21, 2011 at 12:21 am UTC
Irving Allen Lee, who was on the soap opera Edge of Night, and was a favorite of mine, also died of AIDS-related complications. Larry Kramer, playwright and activist, is HIV positive.
I hadn't heard about Michael Nader, and haven't seen anything except denials from what I've been able to pull up. I'm wondering if people are confusing him with his uncle, who inherited Rock Hudson's estate. George Nader didn't die of AIDS, but was Christian Miller's partner, and died in 2002.
My ex-husband has AIDS; he never told me, I found out from someone, and later he told our son, and then a court mediator. I wish he wasn't. I wish he had told me, so I could get tested. I'm fine, I'm negative, but I was scared for a bit, not knowing. I've dated guys since who didn't want to wear a condom. I don't understand that at all; in this day and age, men and women need to protect themselves. It's not right to not tell someone something that could affect them for the rest of their lives, or not use protection.
Comment by: Leo Autodidact (Lancaster, PA) Tue., Dec. 20, 2011 at 10:10 pm UTC
What the blurb is NOT mentioning is that "Ike" got tainted blood during Heart Surgery and that his DOCTORS wanted it kept quiet to preserve THEIR reputations. Janet only admitted the truth AFTER they had left practice.
I personally know several Hundred Virgin Science Fiction Fans who would have GLADLY donated blood for him so he could have been writing for YEARS more, but "the System" of modern medicine wouldn't allow for such a thing.
Comment by: g momz (compton,ca.) Tue., Dec. 20, 2011 at 4:47 pm UTC
ervin johnson has been positive for 15 years no matter who you are are how much money you have you will go to your grave with it dont fool your self take care of your self and always take some kind of medication to help your t cells and viral load it well prolong your life.
Comment by: tracy (wilmington ca.) Tue., Dec. 20, 2011 at 4:00 pm UTC
you are right some of the names you shared truely shock me.....god blessed these people.
Comment by: Beverly Henry (Lake Balboa, Ca.) Tue., Dec. 20, 2011 at 2:10 pm UTC
I am African-American...age 62 yrs. young, tested positive for HIV April 1994...from the first day of learning about my status I was open mainly due to shock...today I know it is a blessing regardless to how someone else may view me. I am a motivational speaker, HIV educator & tester...Keep in mind that "silence = death"...
Comment by: Marcus (Houston ) Tue., Dec. 20, 2011 at 1:39 pm UTC
I think that its a Brave thing for anyone living withHIV but I dont think that we should only celebrate the celebrity that gain's the courage to inform the public about their status there are many of us that have that courage . As a man tat has lived with HIV for the last 9 years and had to gain that courage in my own time to share that with loveones and friends.I applaud anyone with the courage and feel you should onexpose that portion of your life if you want !
Comment by: sharon (07111) Tue., Dec. 20, 2011 at 10:17 am UTC
god bless them all
Comment by: Hayley (youngstown, ohio) Tue., Dec. 20, 2011 at 8:06 am UTC
i thought magic johnson got cured or somethin but u have to pay a lot to get it.
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Comment by: Anonymous Mon., Dec. 19, 2011 at 7:55 pm UTC
until the rich,got sick know one any careed, But they forgot all or God children,we only want to cured the rich. If everyone could get the medicine.Some would live longer.Give all same chance at life
Comment by: Current HIV/ AIDS Peer Educator (Somewhere in NC) Mon., Dec. 19, 2011 at 3:02 pm UTC
This slideshow educated me even more about the virus. Thanks for putting this on the internet. Yes, HIV and the AIDS virus is REAL! Wake up America!
Comment by: Kurt B (L.A., CA) Mon., Dec. 19, 2011 at 1:22 pm UTC
Magic Does Not Have Full Blown AIDS. Magic has the HIV virus which can be carefully managed and the carrier remains generally healthy and live basically a normal life. HIV can also regress into AIDS in which the illness becomes terminal. It is a case by case situation when one catches the virus.
Rock Hudson had AIDS. Magic Johnson has the HIV virus. He has managed to take care of himself ever since, and the virus has NOT downgraded into AIDS
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Comment by: Anonymous Wed., Jun. 10, 2015 at 3:36 pm UTC
Perfectly right. I'm one with a job preparing medications for HIV/AIDS. NO CURE WHATSOEVER. Its toxicities one could only tolerate if contracted healthy young & FULLY taking care of oneself will have a bit of a chance to buy some time. Another is being irresponsible to "forget" to take medications regularly religiously. They compromise their doses that I have to do distress call overtime repeatedly for their missed medications. Their lives depend on Patient Compliance. Yes very expensive but very dangerous to prepare too. Can't win either.!
Comment by: Nia E. (Shreveport, LA ) Sun., Dec. 18, 2011 at 6:35 pm UTC
Interesting info: But, how could they leave out disco queen, "Sylvester" quite a few other celebrities too, but I understand they could only do so many.
Comment by: Anonymous Sun., Dec. 18, 2011 at 10:56 am UTC
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Comment by: Nikki F (Austin, TX) Tue., Dec. 20, 2011 at 7:29 pm UTC
As someone who works at a HIV clinic, people can live very healthy lives with the virus... I have met many people who have had the virus for 20+ years. It is all about understanding the virus and chosing to take care of themselves.
Comment by: BioHzrd420 (Chapel Hill, NC) Wed., Dec. 21, 2011 at 10:45 am UTC
The disease is being kept in remission by an expensive cocktail of anti-retroviral drugs. By taking care of yourself and getting the proper medication, you can be infected but still have a decent life. But as for CURE "i.e. the disease is gone and will never come back"--no there is none. If he stopped taking medication today, his HIV would surely progress to AIDS.
Comment by: Steven F. (Warren Mich) Fri., Dec. 16, 2011 at 7:32 am UTC
Hiv has no boundaries , today we look to God for answers!
Comment by: everyday person (Paris,TN) Thu., Dec. 15, 2011 at 5:35 pm UTC
What about Ryan White, he always is the first one to stick out to me?
Comment by: sonia (modesto) Thu., Dec. 15, 2011 at 12:17 pm UTC
It saddenes me to know that so many celebrities chose to hide their HIV status,some gay and some not,if perhaps these celebrities would tell the truth to the youth of today and announce that it was more than not due to their life style, that led them to this devasting and potential deadly disease that can and should be preventable. We can educate the youth all we want to, but until the real reason of contacting HIV, is told all the education in the world will amount to nothing. The leading cause of HIV is life style,change your life style and lax behavior and their is no need to worried of HIV infection.
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Comment by: tammy (NY NY) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 12:20 am UTC
"change your life style and lax behavior and their is no need to worried of HIV infection".How naive! A person can live a very cautious life and still get aids. It can be brought home by their partner, blood is carefully screened but can still be tainted.There are several ways to get infected and it can happen to someone who is not a junkie or have lax behavior.
Comment by: Melissa (Staten Island, NY ) Thu., Dec. 15, 2011 at 1:04 am UTC
There are no more secrets I would hope. In the late 80's I was visiting my Grandma @Cabrini Hosp,*now defunct* in NYC..I kept wondering what all these beautiful "young" men were doing here so desperately ill..I found out soon enough. I can see their hollow eyes as I would say hello and ask if they needed anything. In the 90's a doctor who was the head of the HIV/AIDS unit @ Cabrini wrote a book chronicaling their suffering, it was incredible. What we didn't know back then could fill 10,000 books..what we deny today could fill too many books to count..AIDS is alive and well..stay protected..love one another
Comment by: Ade (Boston) Wed., Dec. 14, 2011 at 4:33 pm UTC
Fela, one of the greatest musicians and activist to ever live also died of AIDS in 1997. His late brother who was the health minister of Nigeria at the time against popular opinion decided to go public with his Fela's HIV status marking the very first time anyone would publicly acknowledge such.
Comment by: angel (Chicago, IL) Wed., Dec. 14, 2011 at 3:35 am UTC
Comment by: Pat (The Jersey Shore) Tue., Dec. 13, 2011 at 11:11 pm UTC
You fail to mention the celebs on this list who contracted aids through a blood transfusion. Not all is equal in this list-- you mention "gay" men, but not blood recepients. The people here like Glaser and Ashe who died of HIV infected blood, spearheaded the movement to FINALLY test the blood in this country. They did this country a service too. All that died of AIDS were not gay.
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Comment by: Samantha (Brooklyn, NY) Wed., Dec. 14, 2011 at 1:39 pm UTC
Thanks for this, because with those two I was left wondering how they were infected. I remember while reading it, saying to myself, "wow well it seems like everyone on this list got infected by being gay, and being gay has nothing to do with HIV/AIDS." You're right, they made sure to let everyone know about those who were gay, making it seem like that's how they got this disease.
Comment by: Dom (Los Angeles, CA) Tue., Dec. 13, 2011 at 8:44 pm UTC
Magic never had HIV to begin with, but he has kept up the ruse in order to gain attention that it has generated. He's done good work and people love him for it, but he doesn't have it. Some people know that. Most don't.
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Comment by: David (Killeen, TX) Mon., Dec. 19, 2011 at 1:08 pm UTC
Do you mean to say he never had AIDS? One may have HIV and never have AIDS. I believe that is the case with Magic Johnson: He's been on medications his multi-million dollar income can afford for so long that his T-cell count has remained low enough to keep him from being diagnosed with full-blown AIDS; which has kept him 'miraculously' healthy for over 20 years.
Comment by: D. Williams (Wash., D. C.) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 10:09 am UTC
Dom, please get educated about the disease, you could save a life, mainly your own.
David, my daughter has had HIV for over 17 years and has been on medication for 12 years and she is not a multi-millionaire. People with HIV have easy access to medications in this day and time!
Comment by: Darryl (Vancouver, WA) Mon., Dec. 12, 2011 at 10:53 pm UTC
How about the most notable of all, Gaëtan Dugas. You guys really missed the mark on that one.
Comment by: George Hilbert (Poughkeepsie) Mon., Dec. 12, 2011 at 8:59 pm UTC
Arthur Ashe contracted HIV through a blood transfusion.
Comment by: Anonymous Sun., Dec. 11, 2011 at 5:34 pm UTC
Ryan White
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Comment by: Mike (Louisiana) Thu., Dec. 8, 2011 at 11:02 pm UTC
You would be surprise at the number of people that dont want to know if they are infected or not. It is scarry. The first time that I was tested, I had no idea. Its more information out there now than what I had when I was tested the first time. I was nervous about what the result might be. The test scared me because of the risk that I had been taking and just never thought about it. I cannot count the different women that I had unprotected sex with. Then they said that you can get it from parents. I had no idea what my parents had or might have been doing. I will never forget that one day at a butt festival, they had free HIV testing. It made me look at butts a lot different. I now turn down many sexual opportunity. I dont take the risk that I use to. Protecting yourself is a must. Everything that look good is not good.
Comment by: Taadow (Atlanta, GA) Thu., Dec. 8, 2011 at 10:26 pm UTC
one of the first real crusaders Ryan White??????
Comment by: sledka (Hartford, CT) Thu., Dec. 8, 2011 at 8:12 am UTC
Willi Smith, up and coming fashion designerof Afro-American descent, succumbed to this disease in the late 80s or early 90s. Loved his jeans...
Comment by: Anne Cooper (Lockhart Texas) Thu., Dec. 8, 2011 at 4:51 am UTC
I wish that the medical researchers would find the the cure for this horrible virus. The world has lost so many well needed persons and we continue to lose. I am afraid that we will lose another generation of wonderful minds that could have contributed so much to improving our worlds future. Medical researchers please work faster.
Comment by: jackie baines (DALLAS,GA.) Thu., Dec. 8, 2011 at 3:22 am UTC
Comment by: Renee (FL) Wed., Dec. 7, 2011 at 10:54 pm UTC
The guy who starred in Ragtime
Comment by: Shelley (Oklahoma) Wed., Dec. 7, 2011 at 9:32 pm UTC
I wish the fear and stigma would go away along with this disease. So sad, really.
Comment by: clarence jibbs (Los Angeles) Wed., Dec. 7, 2011 at 2:27 am UTC
So, does this mean that Magic's wife Cookie, has been at risk all this time from her husband's serious sex disease?
Comment by: dirk diggler (home) Wed., Dec. 7, 2011 at 12:18 am UTC
Surprised there is no mention of Tommy Morrison!!
Comment by: Liza Parsons (Michigan) Tue., Dec. 6, 2011 at 11:16 pm UTC
what, and no mention of Hydeia Broadbent? Shame on you she has been an AIDS activist since her toddler years, and was the first case reported in Las Vegas. I'd say she has done quite a bit to help eliminate the stigma of living with HIV/AIDS. who is Keith Haring?
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Comment by: star (Atlanta,GA) Tue., Dec. 6, 2011 at 9:31 pm UTC
Im glad the public came forward with the infomation about the celebrities being HIV postive because everybody looks at celebrities like they all that.In reality they at risk just anybody else,Everybody do your self a favor and get your spouse tested before having unprotected sex..LOVE YOUR SELF FIRST.
Comment by: Berryman (Loma Linda, CA) Tue., Dec. 6, 2011 at 7:47 am UTC
Ian Charlton, lead Actor in "Chariots of Fire" 1981, had it revealed after his death that he was gay. The film won the Academy "Oscar" award for the best Picture of the year. Ian played Eric Liddell, a runner in the early 20s Olympic games for Scotland (England). He portrayed an ardent Christian who gained world attention for keeping to his Christian beliefs by not running on Sunday "Sabbath". Lord Lindsey made sacrifice for Ian to run "the Miracle". Liddell committed to going to China as a Missionary, however, he believed that; "God made me for a purpose, for China, but, he also made me fast... and when I run I feel His pleasure.... to not run would be to hold him in contempt" . Ian having the understanding that he was "Gay" or homosexual, did not dilute his convincing passion in playing the role as a devoted Christian; who just happend to be made by God to be a fast runner. His father, in the film, told him that he would Honor God by running in "Gods name", but to not compromise. To Compromise as his father said was the "language of the devil". "Run in Gods name". Ian Charlton actually studied the Bible very carefully before acting his part and wrote the speech that he gave to the labor crowd just after he won a race. He came off so refreshing in delivering his lines that he won world attention after the film. In 1990 He died of AIDS related illness. He asked it be revealed after his death that he was Gay so as to bring attention to the problem and help others in the medical community find cures. He did over 30 films and numerous Shakespeare plays. He was Britons first public figure to come out with the announcement of being stricken with HIV/AIDS. Many foundations, honors and stage/acting schools were named in his honor. It was quite a surprise to the evangelical world to see such a man of serious Christian beliefs openly admit to this HIV/AIDS affliction. It caused many christian critics to reevaluate their spiritual judgment of those afflicted with HIV/AIDS.
Comment by: MadCharles (San Diego, Ca.) Mon., Dec. 5, 2011 at 1:37 pm UTC
Did he really have HIV or was it just another made up story all these years ?
Comment by: George S. (Queens County, New York) Mon., Dec. 5, 2011 at 12:32 pm UTC
AIDS/HIV is a terrible disease that our Government should be fighting full-force instead of placing our soldiers in harm's way, overseas. We should Quarantine AFRICA as this is where this deadly disease began. We should fight it at it's source. Castro has the right idea. All those infected are placed in a compound by themselves and not allowed to co-mingle with those on the outside. After establishing credibility those inside are allowed outside to see family and friends with the promise they will not have sex with those on the outside - if they do then they will not be allowed out again. Those infected receive all their meds at no cost to them. If they violate these rules then punishments occur, they loose rights in the compound.
Is there anything wrong with this approach ???
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Comment by: J (New York, NY) Tue., Dec. 6, 2011 at 9:24 am UTC
Are you out of your mind? You are a moron- an imbecile lacking any moral or ethical compass.
Comment by: Andy (Cleveland) Sun., Dec. 11, 2011 at 12:56 pm UTC
Seriously, you're recommending concentration camps for people with HIV? Jesus christ, stop trolling an AIDS website and go someplace more appropriate, like stormfront.org. Thebody, why do you provide these people with a forum for their idiocy?
Comment by: moe (columbia, mo) Mon., Dec. 12, 2011 at 11:47 am UTC
you have it all wrong. People who think like you should be in a compound!! Your comment is so wrong on so many levels and there are so many things I want to say but you're not worth my time.
Comment by: lilly w. (florida) Mon., Dec. 5, 2011 at 5:28 am UTC
some people think magic Johnson doesn't really ho you think.ave it. They say it's a ploy to publicize Aids. What do you think?
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Comment by: Matt (Northridge, CA) Thu., Dec. 8, 2011 at 3:47 pm UTC
I dont think magic would end his basketball carrier for a stunt like that. He was cut down in his prime by AIDS. If not he couldve played for many more years. I dont think he would give up basketball to spread a lie that he has aids to publicize aids.
Comment by: mona (santa clara) Mon., Dec. 5, 2011 at 3:32 am UTC
I don't think Magic ever was HIV? He was a spokeman. He is the only person I know, that has suppose-ly been infected for 20 years who is larger today than he was when he made the announcement 20 years ago. I have several friends that were HIV, at the same time of his acknowledgement, that is long gone. Also, a while back, it was stated, there was not a trace of the virus in his system, come on! EVERY fool knows, HIV is like your DNA, it's here 2 stay. There is no cure as of yet.
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Comment by: Christina (los angeles, ca) Sat., Dec. 17, 2011 at 4:08 pm UTC
That is not entirely true. first, there has been one person who has been experimentally "cured" of the hiv virus, meaning that there is no trace. incidentally, he was also cured of leukemia at the same time. second, there are some people who seem "immune" or "resistant" to the effects of hiv and aids. it is actually a genetic deficiency that causes their resistance, funny enough. also, there is no trace of AIDS, which is -not- the same as HIV. aids is a result of hiv, but not everybody who is hiv positive has aids. also, with the antiretroviral drugs, average life expectancy for someone who can afford the treatment is about twenty years. most people die due to a immune-deficient related illness, such as pneumonia. so, if the person was healthy to begin with and takes measures to avoid things that weaken their immune system, there isn't a reason why they wouldn't be able to live as long as magic johnson. two other people mentioned on the list have been alive with hiv for nearly as long as magic johnson (one of them being glaser's son.)
Comment by: Nikki (Austin, TX ) Tue., Dec. 20, 2011 at 7:41 pm UTC
I personally know plenty of people who have lived with the virus for as many as 30+ years with the virus and they are as healthy as you and me. The virus can be in the system as "undetectable" and as the genotype of the virus changes it could affect your health or not, but people with the virus are monitored very closely by their doctors at every visit...
Comment by: Candace W. (Columbus, GA) Sun., Dec. 4, 2011 at 6:30 pm UTC
Matthias Herbert deserves recognition for his contribution to AIDS awareness. He has single-handedly infected several women in Columbus, GA with not only AIDS, but chlamydia, syphillis, and countless other Std's. He continues to spread diseases in Columbus, GA to several unexpected women. If you ever run into Matthias Herbert, please be sure to thank him for being a nasty, inconsiderate AIDS transporter. Matthias Herbert, an AIDS expert, carrier, and all around nasty person. Eww!
Comment by: Antonio (Chicago) Sun., Dec. 4, 2011 at 4:42 am UTC
I grew up watching this show in 1994, when i graduated high school. I was so impressed with his spirit and courage. Back then I was so scared of AIDS, but it was lack of education. Just watching him on "The Real World" he taught me more at that time. Thanks to him I waited to have sex, when I was mentally and emotionally ready. I don't sleep around just for kicks. I want to fall in love and make love to my future wife.
Thank you Pedro for your inspiring words and your courage you will never be forgotten.
You will be in my prayers
Comment by: Blair (Atlanta) Sat., Dec. 3, 2011 at 11:55 am UTC
Even know not a celebrity he was a champion in americas heart because of aids !! RYAN WHITE
Comment by: BoGaRd (Little Rock, AR) Fri., Dec. 2, 2011 at 5:29 pm UTC
Yesterday was National Aids Day and I had the opportunity to participate and read names of those who have passed due to AIDS. The statistics are really scared amongst the African American community in the state of Arkansas. Statistics show, as of December 31, 2010, there were 5,178 people living with HIV in the state of Arkansas. In 2010, there were 275 new cases of HIV infection reported to Arkansas Department of Health. Forty-three percent of these cases were in the African American population noteworthy because African Americans make up only 16 percent of the total Arkansas population.
We need to learn the numbers and know or status. I know, do you?
Comment by: LaShaun (Washington DC) Fri., Dec. 2, 2011 at 8:32 am UTC
You most certainly cannot leave out Hydeai Broadbent a major activist of my time at 27 years old who is healthy and living educating everyone about the facts of this disease and raising awareness. Havingbeen born with this disease and appearing on Oprah at the age of 6 she continues to educate and speak on this disease. Sucha beautiful young woman
Comment by: Samoyed (Wash DC) Fri., Dec. 2, 2011 at 2:18 am UTC
Let's stick to the facts. HIV is spread by several means. Number one is unprotected anal sex with multiple partners which is common in some members of the gay population. Number two is needle sharing by IV drug abusers. Number three is heterosexual sex. What is the message here? Always use protection and cut the number of contacts you have. According to a TV editorial by gay actor/director Harvey Firstein, many in the gay community SEEK to become infected to belong to the club. Needless to say he blasted that mindset. Currently 50% of HIV+ gay men don't use protection and who knows how many heteros don't. Don't be stupid or impulsive. This disease can be avoided by being smart.
Comment by: JohnD (Los Angeles, CA) Thu., Dec. 1, 2011 at 3:53 pm UTC
Dance music legend Patrick Cowley. And 80's dance music artists Brian Soares (Secret Ties) and David Diebold (Diebold & Company). Also (correct me if I'm wrong) Sharon Redd - R&B/Dance Diva and former Harlette (backup singer for Bette Midler).
Comment by: mrbob (florida) Thu., Dec. 1, 2011 at 3:37 pm UTC
Tim Richmond, 1980s NASCAR star. Died in 1989 after being diagnosed in 1986.
Comment by: anon (us) Thu., Dec. 1, 2011 at 2:08 pm UTC
I'm sure by now, after all these years, the disease affects gays and straights equally, or darn close to it. Why then is the first thought when someone gets it is that they must be gay? A distant second is that they are suspected drug users.
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Comment by: BigMike (USA) Fri., Dec. 2, 2011 at 7:35 am UTC
Your comment show ignornace of the facts. Even today, the leading cause of HIV infection is unprotected gay sex.
Comment by: Bronwyn (Nyack, NY) Wed., Dec. 7, 2011 at 3:35 pm UTC
Actually BigMike, today, the leading cause of HIV infection is unprotected sex. Period. Gay and straight. (I tried to attach the link that states this but then my comment wouldn't post. But you can look it up yourself online - the statistics are there, and not hard to find.)
Comment by: Jeff (USA) Wed., Dec. 14, 2011 at 11:57 pm UTC
Sorry Bronwyn,it would seem BigMike is right, at least according to the studies I was able to find. In 2009, 74% of all men infected with HIV/AIDS were infected by male to male sexual contact. In 2008, "73% of persons living with a diagnosis of HIV infection were male adults or adolescents."...so there you go.
Comment by: Jim Nabors (Tennessee) Thu., Dec. 1, 2011 at 8:33 am UTC
Dan Hartman (former Edgar Winter Group member, Instant Replay, I Can Dream About You fame)
Comment by: Michael (West Hollywood) Wed., Nov. 30, 2011 at 5:56 pm UTC
Aileen Getty who became a face and voice in the AIDS community and for the AIDS community. She was also another reason Elizabeth Taylor worked so hard on raising money and awareness.
Comment by: Victoria (Baton Rouge, LA) Tue., Nov. 29, 2011 at 9:00 am UTC
Get tested! The social stigma is a thing of the past..the illness affects people of all colors, males and females, heterosexuals and homosexuals. I know because I have lost three heterosexual family members to AIDS and have one currently living with it.
Comment by: ladydi (ny) Mon., Nov. 28, 2011 at 11:50 am UTC
the lady who played Kitty on gunsmoke died of aids also
Comment by: Toni Schroer (Mansfield, Oh) Sun., Nov. 27, 2011 at 5:57 pm UTC
My comment is on my not so famous brother in law who will be called Lil Boy S. he was diagnosed at the age of 19 with HIV they traced it back to a blood transfussion he got at age 2 from. Lil Boy S. was a hemophiliac (meaning his blood didn't clot right and it was deadly)he died at the age of 21. Like these famous people he has people who love and miss him. Why just pay respects to the famous, when everyone who dies for whatever reason has someone that missses and loves them dearly. Love you little bro.
Comment by: Ej (Columbus, Ohio) Sun., Nov. 27, 2011 at 9:58 am UTC
Max Robinson also died from AIDs and passed it on to several females in Chicago.
Comment by: jasmin o. (DC) Sat., Nov. 26, 2011 at 10:39 pm UTC
Perry Ellis.
Comment by: thumperzluv (Detroit, Michigan) Fri., Nov. 25, 2011 at 6:15 pm UTC
Amanda Blake. Gunsmoke's 'Miss Kitty'
Comment by: J (Philly, PA) Fri., Nov. 25, 2011 at 1:21 pm UTC
Being a member of the gay community I knew about most of these. I would have to say the one that shocked me the most was Robert Reed. OMG!! What an interesting fact to share in conversation. I'm almost sure there are quite a few people who still don't know about neither the gay aspect of his life or the HIV status.
Comment by: Rece (Tennesse) Thu., Nov. 24, 2011 at 11:45 am UTC
Is Ru Paul HIV positive?
Comment by: EDRISA MUWANGA (UGANDA) Wed., Nov. 23, 2011 at 10:24 am UTC
In Uganda we celebrities who have gone public and i think they should be recognized here. We Philly Lutaaya (died in 1989 but was an International Artiste), Rtd. Major Rubaramira Ruranga (still living but went public 20years ago), and Canon Gideon Byamugisha (a renowned church leader still living and broke the silence 20years ago). Those people have been great activists in AIDS awareness in Uganda and world at large. Please recognize them and their great work.
Comment by: mary ansel (farmington hills mi) Mon., Nov. 21, 2011 at 2:02 pm UTC
Didn't Miss Kitty of Gunsmoke also succumb to AIDS?
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Comment by: M. Douglas (Baltimore, Md) Mon., Nov. 21, 2011 at 3:38 am UTC
What about the billionaire with the newspaper that died from AIDS
Comment by: LaFaith (Maryland, MD) Sun., Nov. 20, 2011 at 4:04 pm UTC
GOD BLESS Everyone that is living and fighting with HIV. We must continue to help Save their Lives.
Comment by: Michael (Rock Hill, SC) Fri., Nov. 18, 2011 at 6:10 pm UTC
How sad that only two of these people are still living.
Comment by: Roz1 (New York City) Thu., Nov. 17, 2011 at 3:42 pm UTC
It was good of these people to identify themselves and to let the public know that no one is exempt from acquiring this illness. Not all behavior was reckless, sometimes people let down their guard too soon after entering a relationship. After a few liaisons, they tend to stop using protection (it should never stop). It is really necessary to first take tests (STD) together at a clinical (there are free ones) and get a proper diagnosis before indulging in any kind of sexual practices.
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Comment by: Anonymous Thu., Nov. 17, 2011 at 10:07 am UTC
How about Johnnie Wad, famous porn actor?
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Comment by: Truth (Seattle) Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 7:57 pm UTC
Just for the record. When HIV/AIDS first made headline news nobody knew what to do or think. Doctors were giving drugs out to the infected that ended lives faster than to have not taken anything at all. AZT was lethal when to much was given and when used alone. The New cocktail has been tweeked by trial and error. Men, woman and children have paved the way in the early years for this much needed new perscriptions.
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Comment by: Scott (Seattle) Sat., Nov. 26, 2011 at 3:16 pm UTC
Today the current drugs are still toxic to some.More needs to be done to monitor the individual and not just give HIV meds in standard doses.Also, another broken promise by drug companies was to study how herbs could be integraded with drug treatment.As soon as new drugs appeared to work-drug companies just proclaimed taking their meds was superior and only way to treat.
I still belive HIV is a co-factor of AIDS not THE virus.THIS IS MY OPINION!As a person with AIDS I am sure I would be gone now if I hadn't been proactive and used alternatives to the drugs at times.Dr.Bob would argue with me a few times on this site about my alternative choices.Well,I'm still here and I could still die tomorrow and people would be told it was my choice to take alternatives that caused my death.So what happened to Dr. Bob?He insisted we could only trust drugs or we were in denial of our HIV treatment.We need to look at the whole picture of treating HIV not just taking the drugs without questions about quality of life.
Comment by: Todd in DC (Washington, DC) Wed., Nov. 30, 2011 at 4:32 pm UTC
You're kidding right? After 30 years of HIV/AIDS research and that still isn't enough to convince you that HIV causes AIDS? Wow.
I take Complera. Keeps my HIV undetectable, and has no ill effects (in me).
My Tcells are around 750. The only herbs I consume are in food.
Maybe you need to ask yourself why you are willing to ignore science and embrace a few testimonials.
Comment by: Truth (Seattle) Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 7:45 pm UTC
I may be wrong but I think Elizabeth Taylors Daughter. Elizabeth Taylor did so much for awareness. God Bless her. RIP
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Comment by: GLAD I AM EDUCATED (NYC) Mon., Nov. 14, 2011 at 8:37 pm UTC
I find it so sad and disgusting how ignorant, stupid, homophobic, racist, and uneducated the majority of your comments are. It does not matter how one gets HIV. So, you will treat Ryan White with respect because he was a child, and Elizabeth Glaser and her children with respect because they transmitted the disease in a way that is acceptable to YOU? Where a gay man or promiscuous person deserves it? I work in a large hospital with a large HIV population and the majority of the transmissions are due to IV drug abuse then passing it on to their partners then on to the child. Your ignorant comment about health care workers treating HIV and AIDS patients differently is true, we treat our patients with respect and we DO NOT JUDGE, we treat them like humans because we know there are ignorant and stupid people out there who wont treat them with respect and dignity, just like you would want to be treated. If the stigma of HIV and AIDS were lessened, more people would get tested and get help, but with comments like these on this board, no wonder people keep it a secret.
Educate yourself or you have no use in this society.
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Comment by: Common Sense (NYC NOT) Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 4:15 pm UTC
It's a known fact, accidents happen. You are stupid to expect sympathy from any rational person when an idiot, who is above the age of reason, blows their brains out while playing Russian Roulette. Get used to it, you are responsible for your own actions.
Comment by: Base Logic (NOT NYC) Sat., Nov. 26, 2011 at 1:43 pm UTC
1) YOU, "Common Sense," are stupid to call sex "Russian Roulette." By that standard everyone should remain abstinent and procreation should immediately cease.
2) Use a colon after "fact"
Comment by: crysltfire (missouri) Sun., Nov. 27, 2011 at 10:36 am UTC
Yes aids is a sad fact of today. BUT ADULT gays having sex WITHOUT some kind of protection are playing Russian Roulette!! BOTH SHOULD BE TESTED WITH THE RESULTS BEFORE UNPROTECTED SEX....DUH DUH DUH!! Also true for those shooting themselves up with drugs and dirty needles. ALL playing Russian Roulette. Many think that their not the ones that will get it untill it happens to them. CHILDREN I definitely feel sorry for the most. THEY did not get to make this decision. That decision was made for them by irresponsible parents!!!!!!!! DON'T start giving me the bleeding heart B S when everyone is VERY aware of AIDS in this day and age and should know better than to have unprotected sex BEFORE testing!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Comment by: omegawife1 (Dallas, TX) Tue., Nov. 29, 2011 at 10:29 am UTC
That is so sad Crysltfire, that you would think that way. ALL people having sex, heterosexual or homosexual should be using protection. Are you? It is wrong for you to make these comments and GOD is watching. You act as if those who choose to be with the same sex are doomed. Hell we are all doomed if we are not careful. There are just as many heterosexuals sticken with HIV/AIDS as there are homosexuals. How do I know this? Because I am a Registered Nurse, working on the frontline of all illnesses. Do your research before you speak and stop being so dam ignorant.
Comment by: anon (us) Thu., Dec. 1, 2011 at 2:21 pm UTC
I don't think gay or promiscous people deserve it. I don't agree with the lifestyle, but to say that would be most harsh and unChristian. But every action has a consequence, good or bad. Every single one. Sometimes it's in the form of positive or negative energies, and sometimes it's more physical, like pregnancy or disease. Sometimes it's harmless, and benign, like a bit of gas from too much pizza, and sometimes it's more serious. But it's true, and while this particular topic is a slippery slope that can lead easily down the road to homosexual hatred, the cold hard fact of the matter is that it is something we are going to have to face up to and address one way or the other if we EVER want to get this awful disease under control. Putting your health/life in the hands of a small, thin, easily torn piece of rubber just won't work. It's insane. Our whole society is insane and we've got to STOP this madness or we will kill ourselves off.
Comment by: Terri (Los Angeles, CA) Mon., Nov. 14, 2011 at 6:45 pm UTC
Beautiful and committed actor, Brad Davis, who actually died from assisted suicide while he was on his death bed from AIDS related illnesses. His wife went on to write a very powerful book about their experiences, "After Midnight".
Comment by: ctcsme Mon., Nov. 14, 2011 at 3:23 am UTC
Magic himself said he was cured.
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Comment by: tonto g. (oxnard, ca) Sun., Nov. 13, 2011 at 5:30 pm UTC
Boxing has really dropped out of the popular consciousness over the last 20 years or so. No one has yet mentioned Tommy Morrison.
Comment by: missy (Indiana) Sat., Nov. 12, 2011 at 8:04 pm UTC
The man who played Nellie Olson's husband also died of AIDS
Comment by: Mike L. (Phoenix) Sat., Nov. 12, 2011 at 12:55 am UTC
Now if we can just keep Johnson from wasting millions of investors dollars in opening up useless theatres such as the one he opened up in Watts that failed miserably. Hey, i you open a Baskin Robins in a war zone, its still a war zone although you do have frutti tutti.
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Comment by: Renee (Los Angeles) Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 3:44 am UTC
Magic didn't open a theatre in Watts. Where'd you get that WRONG information? If it wasn't your dollars, why are you concerned with what he does? You're an idiot.
Comment by: Bronwyn (Nyack, NY) Wed., Dec. 7, 2011 at 3:48 pm UTC
Magic never opened up a theater chain in Watts - it was in Crenshaw. Actually, I believe the only Magic Johnson theater chains that are still open are in Maryland and one in Harlem (and Harlem may be a little tough but it's hardly a war zone, goodness).
But I'm still trying to figure out what his movie theater chain has to do with the current topic of conversation? Magic has donated so much money to various charities, especially AIDS research. Why does it matter if his theater chain failed...???
Comment by: Marty (Connecticut, USA) Fri., Nov. 11, 2011 at 8:52 am UTC
Im sure those that stay up on AIDS developments know this but they cured the first person of this terrible disease recently. An HIV patient had a bone marrow and stem cell treatment from one of the 1% of Caucasians that are immune to the disease. The patient has now been free of HIV for two years I think. I didnt want anyone to miss this story. They are calling it a "functional cure" as given the difficulty and risks its not an easy one.
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Comment by: J Andrew Beal (NC) Thu., Nov. 24, 2011 at 2:00 am UTC
Yes, the 'Berlin patient' I believe. Last I heard the University of California system was working to replicate that success. So far, patient X has remained HIV-free. Amazing. Thanks for bringing this up.
Comment by: moe (columbia, mo) Mon., Dec. 12, 2011 at 12:03 pm UTC
I read an article about this man and it gave me hope for the millions suffering from the disease. Sadly not a lot of people know about this. If one can be cured millions can as well. I believe there has been a cure for a while. But the pharmasudical companies make too much money on the current drugs they sell to put the cure out. And sadly our country is all about money so I believe the government allows the cure to be swept under the carpet.
Comment by: rivkah (brooklyn, ny) Thu., Nov. 10, 2011 at 10:34 am UTC
Ofra Haza was an incredible singer from Israel. She contracted HIV from her husband, who hid it from her. The whole country was in tears. Ofra Haza was one of Mick Jagger's favorite foreign talents.
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Comment by: Dee (Dallas, TX) Wed., Nov. 9, 2011 at 2:05 pm UTC
Back in the 80's I lived a very unprotected Life style. I prayed for well over 20 year that I did become HIV Positive because I chose to have Sex with an openly Bi-Sexual Man... I never shared my story with anyone for fear it would get out... I be judged by others... Now 23 years later I tell everyone I meet about being safe... My Daughter, Nieces, Nephews and others how I lived in fear!!!
Comment by: JG (Ft. Worth, TX) Mon., Nov. 7, 2011 at 4:43 pm UTC
It's my understanding Arthur Ashe contracted his
HIV/AIDS from an unclean blood transfusion before testing was commonplace. If this information is correct, it seems only fair that it be mentioned in his data.
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Comment by: Martha (Tennessee) Wed., Nov. 9, 2011 at 1:39 pm UTC
It doesn't matter how it was contracted, that's not what the article is about.
Comment by: Owen (Louisville, KY) Fri., Nov. 11, 2011 at 9:59 pm UTC
Yes, it does matter, Martha. Everyone else in this list contracted the disease from dangerous behavior.
Arthur was just unfortunate, caught up in an accepted medical procedure. I think that makes it different...
Comment by: sue (south bend, in) Tue., Nov. 15, 2011 at 11:48 am UTC
I agree with JG. Arthur Ashe was a victim. It was not the result of his behavior. I thought the same thing when I read it.
Comment by: Renee (Los Angeles) Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 3:55 am UTC
Yes, it does matter. Although the end result is usually the same. Risky behavior vs through a blood transfusion? Yes, it makes a difference.
Comment by: JS (Indiana) Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 10:04 am UTC
Ryan White contracted HIV this way. He was not on the list, but maybe that is because his fame was derived from having this disease and not something describing an already famous individual. Still wish he made the list. By the way, I don't think/know if Isaac Asimov was being dangerous with his behavior, but please correct me if I am wrong.
Comment by: Richard (San Leandro, CA) Sat., Nov. 26, 2011 at 12:17 am UTC
Asimov contracted the AIDs virus from a blood transfusion during heart bypass surgery. Arthur Ashe also contracted the AIDs virus from surgery.
Comment by: NG (Virginia Beach) Tue., Dec. 6, 2011 at 12:48 am UTC
The same with Elizabeth Glaser. (Her husband was Paul Michael Glaser who starred in "Starsky and Hutch".) She contracted HIV from a blood transfusion.
Comment by: T (FL) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 10:39 pm UTC
Yes, I think it IS important to mention those that received it through transfusions as opposed to risky behavior....
They are not famous, but there are 3 brothers in FL that all contracted HIV through blood products before they started testing it. They had hemophilia. Not sure 20+ years later, if they are still alive.
Comment by: Douglas W. (Naples, FL) Sun., Nov. 6, 2011 at 1:09 pm UTC
I remember some years ago reading that somebody, either Johnson or some spokesman, said that his viral load had diminished to the point where it could not be detected. That is pretty close to saying he was virus-free, so it's understandable people thought that. The question now is, what is his medical situation, and what kind of treatment is he receiving? Is it the "HIV cocktail" that everyone gets for HIV now? Or something else?
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Comment by: Positive in Tx (Ft. Worth) Tue., Nov. 8, 2011 at 3:34 pm UTC
If someone is properly taking their meds then yes their viral load usually drops to "undetectable" but the viras is still in their body. There is not one single "HIV cocktail" that "everyone" gets. There is a large veriety of single and mulitable pill cocktails that are given depending on many different factors. Some people react badly to some of the meds while sometimes the virus is restant to some of the meds, every situation is different. I myself take Atripla with is a single pill made up of three different meds and have been at the "undetectable" level for about three years now. While being at the "undetictable" level does lower your risk of passing on HIV to someone else, it does not completly prevent it and all safe sex precautions should always be taken. And yes I am straight and married and my wife knows of my status. I got HIV by "sleeping around" and not having "safe sex" before I got married.
Comment by: DSAMMIS (Titusville,Fl) Sun., Nov. 6, 2011 at 11:57 am UTC
Nobody ever dies of AIDS. They all died of opportunistic diseases that overwhelmed their immune system. Geneally caused by other factors, nutrition, fatigue, drug abuse. HIV is a little understood virus which may be associated with fighting the effects of AIDS
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Comment by: Positive in Tx (Ft. Worth) Tue., Nov. 8, 2011 at 3:45 pm UTC
Actually you get the HIV virus first and when your white blood cell count, or CD4 as it is also called, falls to below a certain level you progress to what is refered to as AIDS, NOT the other way around.
HIV-Human Immunodefecency Virus
AIDS-Aquired Immune Defeceny Symtoms
Comment by: 2201 East (Arizona) Sun., Nov. 6, 2011 at 1:59 am UTC
I find the family waiting ten years to announce that Isaac Asimov died of AIDS related complications particularly offensive. This is a case where Sci/Fi readers all over the world could have been connected to HIV/Aids in a way none would have expected. Think of the influence toward what could have been done about this horrible disease which was lost. Shame on the family.
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Comment by: Martha (Tennesee) Wed., Nov. 9, 2011 at 1:42 pm UTC
Its really no ones business but the person and those involved with them. If a person chooses to reveal it and raise awareness then okay but to say shame on the family...shame on you if the infected person didnt disclose it why should they be left with that burdon.
Comment by: BeeBee (Texas) Sat., Nov. 26, 2011 at 10:59 am UTC
Asimov's family withheld the information in order to protect the doctors involved from any reprisals. Once all of the doctors involved had passed away, Janet (his wife) and Asimov's children allowed the story out. I think this was a great act of kindness on the family's part.
Comment by: Susan (Opp, AL) Sun., Nov. 6, 2011 at 12:29 am UTC
One of the scariest personalities who succumbed to aids was that porn star, John something.
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Comment by: DA07 (Florida) Mon., Nov. 7, 2011 at 2:01 pm UTC
That was John Holmes....and ya, scary, but people are still dumb enough to make those movies....
Comment by: ted409 (flagstaff,arizona) Sat., Nov. 5, 2011 at 2:39 pm UTC
well hes lived ten years so he must be doing something right
i guess him and gene simmons got the same brag on the woman count genes lucky ( IF WHAT HE SAYS IS TRUE OF SCREWING HUNDREDS OF WOMEN) that he isnt in the same boat as magic
Comment by: Lisa Marie (timbuktuu, ) Sat., Nov. 5, 2011 at 10:29 am UTC
The only celebrity mentioned as gay was Rock Hudson. And it is public knowledge that Magic Johnson was sexually promiscuous. It would be helpful to know if the other celebrities were gay or sexually promiscuous.
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Comment by: da07 (Florida) Mon., Nov. 7, 2011 at 2:06 pm UTC
Freddie Mercury...Greg Louganis....Liberace....Robert Reed....Anthony Perkins were all gay, not sure about a couple of those guys because I don't know who they were...never heard of them. And I'm not sure about Arthur Ashe, thought He was married to a woman (?)
Comment by: Anonymous (New York, NY) Wed., Nov. 9, 2011 at 2:39 pm UTC
Actually, Freddie Mercury was bisexual.
Comment by: Everett (Colby, KS) Sat., Nov. 12, 2011 at 6:53 pm UTC
Arthur Ashe contracted his through a blood transfusion. Issasc Asimov I don't know
Comment by: nagash1 (Tennessee) Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 9:55 am UTC
Rock Hudson was also married and gay.Common thing to do back then to cover your tracks.
Comment by: JS (Indiana) Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 10:09 am UTC
All on the list are not heterosexual except Arthur Ashe, Isaac Asimov, and Magic Johnson (I think). Heterosexual men can get AIDS from women. Just because Magic was having some issues with his faithfulness to his wife doesn't mean it was with a man (I could be wrong about his situation, but that is my recollection).
Comment by: record str8ner (Vermont) Wed., Nov. 30, 2011 at 2:55 pm UTC
Why would it "be helpful" to you to know this, Lisa ... so you can check your old date books? File under prurient interest.
Comment by: Anonymous Tue., Dec. 27, 2011 at 5:58 am UTC
Pedro Zamora was very much gay; that was a central part of the original Real World-San Francisco storyline. In fact, his homosexuality, and Puck's insensitivity to the disease and gay people, caused much strain in the house. There have been runors that Magic and Easy-E were "on the down-low". Many so-called gangbangers have been known to be on the DL, using their hypermasculine personas as a cover for their homosexuality. In a case like Magic's, some people say that male athletes get so much heterosexual stilulation that it ultimately ceases to stilulate/satisfy them. And we know about the famous Hollywood mansion parties and the bedrooms there. Some of y'all would be absolutely shocked at what goes on...everything from orgies to homosexual activity by celebs you would never think...
Comment by: Linda K. (Natick MA) Sat., Nov. 5, 2011 at 8:59 am UTC
When I was a nurse, I was active in providing in-formation to the public, especially those with a mental illness. I was convinced that early detection was critical to prolong a good quality of life. I also hold a belief that secrecy is corroding--of relationships, politics, and one's own mental and physical health. (Often, the secrets we keep from ourselves do the most harm.)
Scanning your list above convinces me I have been correct. It would appear that those who "came out" did better, longer.
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Comment by: JUAN (GREENVILLE, SC) Fri., Nov. 4, 2011 at 1:50 pm UTC
i just think God for the person who have the nerve to acknowledge the fact that they do have HIV and are welling to help educate others on this disease that could effect anyone, THANKS TO ALL OF YOU for caring enough for others.
Comment by: esparks3 (washington dc) Fri., Nov. 4, 2011 at 12:58 pm UTC
I thought Arthur Ashe received AIDs through a faulty blood transfusion. A real tragedy.
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Comment by: Doubt Ful (Los Angeles, CA) Thu., Nov. 3, 2011 at 3:32 pm UTC
I still think Magic Johnson is cured of HIV/AIDS
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Comment by: Positive in Tx (Ft. Worth) Tue., Nov. 8, 2011 at 3:53 pm UTC
Well you are wrong. There is only one known and documented case of a person being cured. It was a German man who was also suffering from a rare? form of cancer. His treatment was very radicul cosisting of radiation to kill his blood cells and transfution from someone proven to have a natural resistans to HIV. It was a last ditch effort to safe his life and could just as easily killed him. It was so radicul that it is not practicul to try on anyone else but could lead to a cure in the future. And yes some people have a natural resistans to HIV.
Comment by: Harv G. (Las Vegas) Thu., Nov. 3, 2011 at 2:15 am UTC
What about Tom Fogerty from CCR? He contracted it from a blood transfusion during one of his back surgeries.
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Comment by: lisa1967 (NC) Wed., Nov. 30, 2011 at 8:58 pm UTC
I was reading this w/ my 12 yo son, and HE told me about Tom Fogarty dying of AIDS!! I swear, that kids knows more about music and musicians than I've forgtotten! I wonder if George Micheal has HIV?? I was watching his Bio and knowing his 1st love died from it, he'd be more careful. But from what I've read, he's refused to even be tested for the past 3 yrs. He also looks sickly and his voice, which was strong, has gotten weaker. I'd hate that for him, or anybody-NOBODY deserves HIV!!
Comment by: fridayschild (orlando fl) Wed., Nov. 2, 2011 at 2:43 pm UTC
I think these mini-articles should indicate how the person contracted the disease, just as a way of educating people in how it can happen. Some due to irresponsible sexual behavior, some due to blood transfusions when having surgery. No harm in keeping people as fully informed as possible.
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Comment by: KIRK (CHINO, CA) Tue., Nov. 1, 2011 at 12:26 pm UTC
What about the dancer actor "Leroy" from Fame?
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Comment by: rick (texas) Mon., Oct. 31, 2011 at 8:28 pm UTC
weather you want to believe it or not every male on this list was either gay or bi-sexual. Yes, that includes Aurthur Ashe and Magic Johnson.
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Comment by: Celia (Arkansas) Sat., Nov. 12, 2011 at 12:37 pm UTC
It's virtually impossible for a woman to pass the virus. Think about it, how would her fluids get in that tiny hole? It's safe to say that if a man contracts the disease more than likely its from another man. Aurthur Ashe got it from a blood transfusion...
Comment by: Lee (St Louis, MO) Tue., Nov. 15, 2011 at 11:11 pm UTC
As a health care provider, I can tell you that you are wrong. While it is more common for a man to transmit the disease to a woman, it is also possible for a woman to transmit the disease to a man. You don't have to be gay or bisexual to contract the disease through sexual intercourse!
Comment by: A (Virginia) Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 8:22 am UTC
Virtually impossible for a woman to pass the virus? HIV is a bloodborne pathogen and can be passed as any other bloodborne pathogen can be. As for the comment about gay or bisexual men: The fact is that homosexual men are more likely to contract HIV because they typically have anal intercourse more often than women. The lining of the rectum is thinner than, say, the lining of the vagina, allowing for pathogens to move more easily into the blood stream. It's just as easy for a woman to contract the virus this way, but anal intercourse isn't as prevalent. As to passing the virus, the size of 'the hole' really doesn't matter. Fluid is fluid, and an orifice is an orifice.
Comment by: C.B. Olmstead (Louisville, KY) Mon., Oct. 31, 2011 at 5:42 pm UTC
Although I am HIV negative and heterosexual (not saying only homosexuals test positive for HIV), I am proud that I am able to donate my blood to help someone, including those with HIV, continue to live life to the fullest. That is only my small part in the fight. The real recognition goes to those trailblazers who cast public scorn aside and made public their struggles in the hope of educating and helping someone else. I am proud of them!
Comment by: Peter (Tampa) Mon., Oct. 31, 2011 at 2:05 am UTC
What about Baltimora, who sang Tarzan Boy? What about Ricky Wilson of the new wave group "The B-52's? What about Jim J. Bullock from Too Close for Comfort?
Comment by: j michel (oakland callifornia) Sun., Oct. 30, 2011 at 10:38 am UTC
Its a suprise to me that people are not aware that there is no cure for HIV. Even more reason not to sleep around and have unprotected sex
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Comment by: tucker (grand rapids, mi) Sat., Oct. 29, 2011 at 8:25 am UTC
Sylvester- a 1980s singer died from AIDS he was openly gay & an activist
Comment by: Ashley (Ohio) Fri., Oct. 28, 2011 at 12:10 am UTC
Robert "Bobby" DeBarge, best known as the lead singer of the 1970s group Switch
Comment by: Allison (Milwaukee, WI) Thu., Oct. 27, 2011 at 4:59 pm UTC
You want true sadness, read the book And the Band Played On. There are many prominent people and everyday people who have and had HIV. Just because you have not heard of them does not make their struggle less. We who do not have HIV can sit here and judge all we want but no one deserves to have this disease. The only reason how someone contracted it is important is to demonstrate some of the ways it can be contracted, not to pass judgement. Yes, I think that Magic was wrong to cheat but he did not deserve to get HIV. People's sexual habits are also not a reason to think they deserve to have HIV. Each of the 10 people listed lived or are living with a disease that is likely to be fatal, that takes a strength that is humbling to me.
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Comment by: DAN (Milwaukee) Mon., Nov. 14, 2011 at 9:33 am UTC
Thank you for your wise words. I got the disease through a blood transfusion, and have been "undetectable" for 9 years because of the awesome job of the scientists working to understand this disease. Thank you for speaking out for those who can't or won't.
Comment by: M.Tyler (San Francisco ) Thu., Oct. 27, 2011 at 12:25 pm UTC
Disco legend Sylvester,Jermaine Stewarta,and
singer/songwriter/activist- Ira Levi- the Top 40 Billboard Dance artist (FREE YOUR MIND) from the iconic Strictly Rhythm label. His hits was featured in Miramax's gay-themed feature 'Lie Down With Dogs' and Levi organized the effort to pass 'SCHAROD'S LAW' in SF- to protect youth in at-risk environments.He was featured in GILEAD'S 'HIV TREATMENT IS POWER' campaign.
Comment by: TruthSeeker (Chicago) Thu., Oct. 27, 2011 at 11:23 am UTC
Why was it not mentioned that Arthur Ashe became HIV positive as a result of blood transfusions received during heart surgery? The author of this piece does Ashe a disservice by placing him in this group of gay men with no indication of how he contracted the disease. Tell the whole story, or leave it alone.
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Comment by: emerald (95815) Fri., Oct. 28, 2011 at 7:10 pm UTC
Only a few on this list are gay, but thanks for letting everyone know that you stereotype.
Comment by: mr jones (chicago) Fri., Oct. 28, 2011 at 10:40 pm UTC
Remember Sodomy was illegal from 1904 to 2003 in the USA. That means everyone on this list that was gay was breaking the law. I would not want Arthur Ashe to be in the likes of criminals. Thanks for making it clear Ashe was a good man. And for emerald, Everyone stereotypes. That's why they are called stereotypes, more than half the time they'e true. look up what the word means before you use it.
Comment by: James (Atlanta GA) Tue., Nov. 8, 2011 at 10:36 am UTC
Jones you need to take your own advice and look things up. No such thing as a federal sodomy law, mainly the redneck states had laws (no doubt you're from one of them). SCOTUS overturned the laws (yes 2003, you got that part right) because because. It violated due process ... Which means the law had no business being enforced. Written by bigots, enforced by bigots, and no doubt you'd love to see the law reenacted.
Comment by: Justan American (San Diego,CA) Thu., Oct. 27, 2011 at 2:03 am UTC
Of course nothing is known of the FOUR Navy sailors who contracted the disease during a dental procedure at a base dental clinic in April 1985.
The dental drills were used without sterilization being performed between patients. All were senior enlisted two were married men and one was a single women.
Only through astute detective work by a young female hospital corpsman did the connection become known.
How do I know this? I am one of those four.
26 years HIV+.
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Comment by: Ike (Atla GA) Sun., Nov. 6, 2011 at 1:34 am UTC
Stay strong Justan... I recall that story. SMH
Comment by: Positive in Tx (Fy. Worth) Tue., Nov. 8, 2011 at 3:59 pm UTC
I can only hope to live that long. Three years and still going. Stay strong and healthy.
Comment by: JoAnna (Alaska(can't see russia from my house sorry)) Sat., Nov. 26, 2011 at 4:11 am UTC
I call bs.
Comment by: T (FL) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 10:54 pm UTC
JoAnna - Why do you call BS? It is known to be transmitted via blood. My gums bleed sometimes and if the same instrument is used in the next person's mouth a blood born pathogen if present, could be passed. It wasn't until AFTER we realized out it was being passed around that some in the medical field started taking precautions, not only for themselves, but also for their patients.
Comment by: Widowmaker (Port Elizabeth South Africa) Wed., Oct. 26, 2011 at 4:02 pm UTC
This is supposed to be a hero. A know adlutress, who cheated on his wife, contracted the HIV virous and you want to make him some kind of here. A ZERO i say. Cheater's never win and winner's never cheat. Die in peace and don't try to influence my grandkids.
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Comment by: Anonymous Wed., Oct. 26, 2011 at 7:55 pm UTC
lord you need some typing help. dont you influence your grand kids
Comment by: crystlfire (Missouri) Sun., Nov. 27, 2011 at 11:06 am UTC
It's sad that you have people here that lump everyone up into one category. Children who catch this desease from irresponsible adults I do feel very sorry for. Those who receive this horrible desease from blood transfusions I also feel sorry for. Those that knowingly use unprotected sex and spread it to their loved ones I DO NOT feel sorry for! Their adults and had CHOICES to protect themselves and choose not to!!! Irresponsibility does not give you my sympathy!!
Comment by: Joan A. (Ft. Worth, TX) Tue., Oct. 25, 2011 at 5:51 pm UTC
It's my understanding that Arthur Ashe contracted
his disease from a blood transfusion before testing was commonplace. If this is correct, perhaps it should be noted in the information regarding him.
Comment by: AMARDRE C. (BALTIMORE, MD) Tue., Oct. 25, 2011 at 3:05 pm UTC
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Comment by: Martha (Tennessee) Wed., Nov. 9, 2011 at 1:54 pm UTC
The story isnt about being gay or not gosh yall are missing the point. The story is about those raising awareness and coming out and those who didnt. Regardless how it was contracted people like yourselves will still pass judgment and stray away.
Comment by: Gordon S. (Florida) Tue., Oct. 25, 2011 at 11:35 am UTC
Magic Johnson is one of the extremely small group of heterosexual men who managed to contract aids in this country. Because of him most heterosexual men have avoided catching it from women.
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Comment by: Ronnie (west Palm Beach FL) Tue., Oct. 25, 2011 at 9:12 am UTC
It's sad that people recognize and relate more to cancer than Hiv/Aids. All these pink ribbons everywhere but what credit to we receive? It's like shame on you. I personally think alot more actors are positive but are hiding under fear. Money doesn't grow on trees and once your out it's Over. Sad we live in 2011the and still looking down on this illness. HIV &Simpson CANCER are nearly the same. Only difference is one is looked on with smiles and the other people want to wear gloves around you. Magic isn't super human at all. He comes down to south Florida for treatment like alot of celebrity actors. Just take your medicine plus use vitamins to add extra to your longevity. And always have faith that change and a cure will come.
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Comment by: Observation (USA) Fri., Oct. 28, 2011 at 4:07 pm UTC
Aren't the red ribbons for HIV/AIDS awareness?
Comment by: Anonymous Tue., Nov. 1, 2011 at 8:00 am UTC
To be fair, you can't catch cancer from someone else...
Comment by: ryan (wpb) Thu., Nov. 3, 2011 at 2:40 pm UTC
Thanks for the perspective. Those of us that have lived long did so on an uneven playing field. We had to look within to find peace. I'm now fearing living too long that I'm not finacially prepaired to do so. But we'll all find our way as we always have..
Comment by: WARREN S. (LOS ANGELES) Mon., Oct. 24, 2011 at 2:40 pm UTC
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Comment by: shannon (minnesota) Wed., Oct. 26, 2011 at 11:04 am UTC
Steve Jobs didn't listen to his doctors
Comment by: jason (California) Sat., Oct. 29, 2011 at 1:32 am UTC
ok well them tell that to Patrick Swayze
Comment by: Tonya (Newark DE) Fri., Nov. 4, 2011 at 4:13 pm UTC
I don't think Patrick listened to his doctor either
Comment by: Anonymous (lebanon oregon) Mon., Oct. 24, 2011 at 12:49 pm UTC
why do people assume that HIV and AIDS are diseases that only effect people at risk . anyone at any time can be at risk . it is not a lifestyle or behavior disease. I knew a older gentleman who had a blood cancer he received a transfusion in the ER it was tainted. he acheived remission and 2 years later became ill again he died a year later of AIDS If you have a family that has never been touched by HIV and AIDS than you are the exception not the rule
Comment by: Susanne (Philadelphia, PA) Mon., Oct. 24, 2011 at 11:16 am UTC
Rudolf Nuryev, the most famous dancer since Nijinky, sadly, died of AIDS complications back in 1980's, I beieve. At time of death, he was director of a leading Paris Ballet Company. The dancer was aslo known for his brave escape from Soviet Union, he successfully rec'd sanctuary in the U.S. Former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, was one of his biggest fans and supporters.
There are videos of this great dancer, but sadly, we don't seem to remember him well now. In his lifetime, he was ICONIC
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Comment by: Lulu (Atlanta, Ga) Wed., Nov. 2, 2011 at 1:47 pm UTC
You're right, and he was something else - a very gifted businessman. Virtually no one can make a living in dance; especaially classical ballet, and he became rich, anyway.
A fascinating man, and a tragic loss.
Comment by: Sharon M. (Va. Beach VA) Thu., Apr. 21, 2016 at 3:43 pm UTC
I, too, was a BIG fan of Mr. Nureyev's-a GREAT dancer and very brave man (beautiful, beautiful dancer!)Missed him on this list as well-still believe it was early 1990s, perhaps 1993, year of his death. Tragedy was, he never, ever seemed to want to admit he had this disease.
Comment by: Kitty Conrad (Atlanta) Mon., Oct. 24, 2011 at 8:41 am UTC
Stewart McKinney, member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Connecticut for 16 years.
Comment by: David Jobling (Adelaide, South Australia) Sun., Oct. 23, 2011 at 7:16 pm UTC
Some famous Australians for your list:
Peter Allen (19441992) Australian born songwriter and singer; wrote "I Still Call Australia Home" and part of "Arthur's Theme" to name just two of his hits - famously played by Hugh Jackman in "The Boy from Oz".
Stuart Challender (19471991) Australian conductor; second Australian-born Chief Conductor of the Sydney Symphony (198791).
Leigh Bowery (19611994) Australian performance artist, fashion designer, dancer and model ...
Comment by: Homer gone (Palm Springs) Sun., Oct. 23, 2011 at 1:17 pm UTC
You forgot Malcolm Forbes!
Comment by: Jordan Watson (Ft. Lauderdale, Florida) Sun., Oct. 23, 2011 at 1:16 pm UTC
I think you guys left out alot of notables whom have died or are living with HIV or AIDS.
Micheal Nader (Dimitri) All my children fame, Jim J. Bullock (Too close for comfort) fame, Larry Riley of Knots Landing, Gene Anthony Ray (Fame), Howard Rollins (Heat of the night). God bless all whom are fighting with this disease.
Comment by: ann wilson (Philadelphia, PA) Sun., Oct. 23, 2011 at 6:06 am UTC
As was the case with Arthur Ashe, it should be noted that many individuals contracted HIV through blood transfusions or like Magic Johnson through unprotected sexual relations. AIDS is not a Gay disease.
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Comment by: Kitty Conrad (Atlanta) Mon., Oct. 24, 2011 at 8:18 am UTC
True that AIDS is not just a gay disease. However, some of those who claim blood transfusion or straight sex as the cause are hiding their history of unprotected gay sex.
Comment by: helen (georgetown) Tue., Oct. 25, 2011 at 2:09 pm UTC
It is, however, an overwhelming disease that continues to show up in greater numbers in the gay and bi community.
Comment by: Tre (Tallahassee) Mon., Oct. 31, 2011 at 1:23 pm UTC
The reason more gay men have it than straight in because of anal sex. You are more likely to get it that route.
Comment by: Raven (Atlanta) Mon., Nov. 7, 2011 at 12:28 pm UTC
Actually, you are more likely to get HIV/AIDS the 'unprotected' route. HIV does not differentiate between anal and vaginal sex!
Comment by: Dekker451 (Tacoma) Sun., Nov. 13, 2011 at 4:10 pm UTC
Well yeah, actually, it does. Not consciously of course and *any* unprotected sex is particularly risky, but you really are more likely to contract HIV (among other things) from anal sex than you are from vaginal sex.
Comment by: Trust (Seattle) Wed., Nov. 16, 2011 at 7:33 pm UTC
Dekker451 you are an idoit. Vaginal or anal unprotected sex are both the same risk. The fastest growing group as of today is in the Hetro ages between 20 - 35. It can be understood by stupid comments like yours that give false information to kids.
Comment by: Lynn (Louisville, KY) Wed., Nov. 23, 2011 at 10:39 am UTC
Trust, you shouldn't call someone an idiot before you do your own research. It is in fact more likely that you will contract HIV through anal sex than vaginal sex due to your anatomy. Your anus was not made for sex and thus has a thinner lining than your vagina. Your blood vessels are closer to the skin in your anus than your vagina thus making it easier to absorb bodily fluids into your blood stream through your anus than your vagina. There's no need for calling someone an idiot, which is made even worse by the fact that you were not correct in your refuting statement.
Comment by: D. Williams (Washington, D. C.) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 11:11 am UTC
Dekker451, Correct me if I'm wrong, I thought it was the commingling of bodily fluids that enabled a person to pass on the disease. Does the vagina have fluids? Do you believe that every female that has the disease participated in anal sex? Can't a female get these "other things" vaginally as well? Curious as to where you got your facts.
Comment by: Sandra (N.C.) Sat., Oct. 22, 2011 at 6:21 pm UTC
I remember 1 female having AIDS, Ms.Kitty from Gunsmoke fame. May all that have passed on rest in peace!
Comment by: Lori (Pittsburgh, PA) Fri., Oct. 21, 2011 at 4:04 pm UTC
I'm a Physician Assistant...so I have access to and read a LOT of medical journal articles about advances in HIV treatments. As I posted earlier, there HAS been a man who has been CURED of the virus. And I do NOT mean that his viral load is undetectable w/a high CD4 count. He has actually been CURED. Below is the full article; I will post the links.
"For the first time in history, a man has been cured of HIV. The patient, 42-year old Timothy Ray Brown was first hospitalized at Berlin at Germanys Charite Universitatsmedizin hospital after he contracted acute myeloid leukemia in 2007. He underwent aggressive chemotherapy that destroyed the majority of his immune cells and finally, went through a risky stem-cell transplant that appears to have completely cured Brown of HIV.
The key to this particular case was in the stem cell donor, who had a rare genetic mutation called CCR5 delta 32 homozygosity that is associated with a reduced risk of becoming infected with HIV. While Browns own immune system was shot, the donors cells were effective enough so that three years later, Brown was completely cured.
The treatment was life-threatening and not something many HIV patients would want to go through, but it opens up new avenues of research into gene therapies and stem cell treatments that may otherwise have been thought hopeless. And while no longer considered as maliciously fatal, HIV patients still live a life rife with pain and hardship. This case is monumental because for the first time in human history, we know that its possible to cure HIV and that is awe-inspiring."
1) http://thenextweb.com/shareables/2010/12/14/for-the-first-time-in-history-a-man-is-cured-of-hiv/
2)The Body: The Complete HIV/AIDS resource. The First Man to Be Cured of AIDS: An Update on the Amazing Story.
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Comment by: Lori (Pittsburgh, PA) Fri., Oct. 21, 2011 at 3:45 pm UTC
I just read an article about the very FIRST person to actually be CURED (and I don't mean a person living with the virus with an undetectable viral load and high CD4 counts) of HIV. There is a new therapy that is being tried out in Germany; an American male with HIV went there to receive this type of gene therapy. Essentially, the treatment is stem cell therapy. They first wipe out the immune system of the person infected with HIV using chemo. Then, the stem cells are "given" to the HIV infected patient. The key here is that the donor of the stem cells had a rare genetic mutation called CCR5 delta 32 homozygosity that is associated with a reduced risk of becoming infected with HIV. So, basically, after killing off the patients immune system, they then flooded his system with stem cells of a person who has some genetic mutation that prevents him from getting ANY of the strains of HIV. So the previously infected man takes on the unaffected man's cells as his own. And, VOILA! He's cured. This man was cured- he has no trace of the virus now whatsoever. Now, this therapy will NOT work for everyone with HIV, but it sure is a start! I will post the article and it's link.
Comment by: Christo C. (Pretoria, Republic of South Africa) Fri., Oct. 21, 2011 at 4:04 am UTC
Judge Edwin Cameron - High Court Judge in South Africa
Comment by: Dele (TX) Thu., Oct. 20, 2011 at 1:56 pm UTC
No one mentions Michael Jeter(the green mile) and its strange that Hollywood dont even talk about HIV and AIDS anymore like its not relevant and WE ALL know that most are scr3wing like crazy.
Comment by: Brooklyn Davidoff (Seattle, WA) Wed., Oct. 19, 2011 at 2:21 pm UTC
Maybe to give us all some hope we can find some living people with HIV? Just an idea. When I was diagnosed I googled famous people with it so I would feel better, for some reason. I found very few alive and OUT. I know there has to be some in Hollywood or in the music industry who have it, where are they?!
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Comment by: anon (us) Wed., Oct. 19, 2011 at 9:07 am UTC
Rich or not, I think Magic's success with living with AIDS has been fairly rare. Isn't it unusual for someone, even with the latest drugs, to live so long and be so relatively healthy? Then again, we don't see him that much in public, so maybe he's not doing as well as we think?
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Comment by: Andie (Seattle, WA) Thu., Oct. 20, 2011 at 4:12 pm UTC
People are all different. Some look and feel terrible all the time, some have pretty impressive results with drugs. Current drugs do a much-improved job of staving off "full-blown" AIDS after HIV infection; it is no longer an immediate death sentence like it was in the '80s.
Comment by: BlahBlahBlah (U.S.) Tue., Oct. 25, 2011 at 4:18 pm UTC
Nope, with the "drug Cocktails" available today most can lead a fairly normal life. I as an example was diagnosed in 1998 at age 31 and have not had a related issue in over 12 years on 3 pills a day.My doctor say's he's more worried about my high colesterol than the HIV. While some strains of the virus are worse than others taking care of yourself is key just like with any other illness.
Comment by: okimsolo (Maryland) Wed., Oct. 26, 2011 at 9:42 am UTC
Being HIV positive is relatively simple-either you are infected with the virus or you aren't. AIDS, which stands for "Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome" is a way of describing a whole group of symptoms and diseases associated with the damage HIV does to the immune system. Magic Johnson is living with HIV. To date and to my knowledge, it has not progressed to AIDS. It could be said in the beginning of this epidemic, living long term with the virus was rare. Today, many long-term survivors thrive with the current HIV meds available. I myself have been HIV+ for 30 yrs and have never been sick from the virus. I adhere to my meds diligently and live an active and busy life.
Comment by: DJ (Wilton Manors, FL) Wed., Oct. 19, 2011 at 5:36 am UTC
I momentarily forgot Ofra Haza, Sylvester and Baltimora.
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Comment by: Liron (Seattle) Sat., Oct. 29, 2011 at 6:01 pm UTC
Thank you for mentioning the talented, incredibly beautiful, spectacular singer Ofra Haza, from Israel, who died at age 42 in the year 2000 of AIDS-related pneumonia. I was reading down these comments specifically to note if anyone remembered her here.
Comment by: DJ (Wilton Manors, FL) Wed., Oct. 19, 2011 at 5:30 am UTC
Andy Bell from the band Erasure is very open about being HIV Positive.
Jim J. Bullock.
Ryan White!
Comment by: Rob (Ohio) Tue., Oct. 18, 2011 at 8:54 am UTC
In your articles, you should mention that not all of these people with HIV were gay. Arthur Ashe got his HIV through a surgery, if I am not mistaken.
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Comment by: Max (GA) Wed., Oct. 19, 2011 at 1:49 am UTC
Maybe you didn't mean for it to sound that way but it sounds like you're assuming that without this caveat, everyone will read this and think "Oh, he died of AIDS, he must have been gay." I would hope most, if not all, readers would know by now that people of all sexual orientations can and do contract HIV. Some of them were gay, and some weren't. It's not really the point, though, is it?
Comment by: Dill (New York, NH) Fri., Oct. 21, 2011 at 3:53 pm UTC
Both Ashe and Asimov contracted HIV through surgery, not through sexual contact or IV drug use - which frankly, I think is important to mention. Magic Johnson contracted HIV through sheer recklessness and promiscuity - does anyone deserve HIV? No. But Asimov and Ashe were a Hell of a lot less deserving than Johnson.
Comment by: Maria Fri., Oct. 21, 2011 at 4:27 pm UTC
I agree that most people assume that anyone with HIV is gay, which is not so as neither Magic nor Arthur was gay.
Comment by: Joe Gillis (Ann Arbor, MI) Mon., Oct. 24, 2011 at 12:07 pm UTC
Dill, glad you're here to decide who best DESERVES to get HIV/AIDS. What would we ever do with you, you judgmental s*it.
Comment by: Mia (NJ) Tue., Oct. 25, 2011 at 2:12 pm UTC
In spite of what you say, Joe Gillis, I agree with Dill. Reckless behavior does have consequences.
Comment by: BeeBee (Texas) Sat., Nov. 26, 2011 at 11:07 am UTC
Dill - what right do you even have to decide whether Isaac Asimov would "deserve" any particular medical fate? Do you even know that he wrote about 500 books which covered every Dewey Decimal category except one? Do you know that he wrote about 150 of these books AFTER contracting HIV? that in his final year of life he wrote more than 30 books? Do you even read? have you even read one-tenth the number of books that Mr. Asimov WROTE?
Any of you that think "reckless behavior should have consequences" should keep your mouths shut. Think on the many times your own "reckless behavior" did not result in any. It was NOT due to any fairy tale being deciding to spare you - it was pure chance.
Comment by: Sionnach (Fair Hill, MD) Wed., Nov. 26, 2014 at 2:45 pm UTC
I agree that it should have been mentioned which of the "celebrities" contracted the disease via blood transfusions or contaminated surgical instruments, rather than illegal drug use and/or unprotected sexual activity, but gay or not has nothing to do with it.
It should be mentioned so that people are aware there are multiple ways to contract the disease.
Re those who didn't contract it from sexual activity - Elizabeth Glaser also contracted it from a blood transfusion.
Comment by: Michael B. (Long Beach, CA) Mon., Oct. 17, 2011 at 7:04 pm UTC
What's so interesting is that since the advent of effective antiviral combination therapy, there is not one celebrity who has disclosed his or her HIV status. In most cases, disclosure has happened after death or when the person living with AIDS knew their days were numbered, and they had nothing to loose, career-wise. The two living advocates, Magic Johnson and Greg Louganis, may be "out" about their HIV because they became infected before treatments were available, and fear of transmission though sports-related injury effectively ended their careers.
Does the lack of any new celebrity spokespersons living with HIV/AIDS in the last fifteen years mean that celebrities are all using condoms and no longer put themselves at risk? I don't think so!
Having famous people living with this disease does much to promote HIV awareness, condom use, and access to treatment. It's unfortunate that there are probably 10 more celebrities we see in concerts, on ESPN, on TV, and in the movies every day who would make incredible advocates, but because they might loose that romantic role or Nike endorsement, choose to hide behind their pills.
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Comment by: Susanne (Philadelphia) Mon., Oct. 24, 2011 at 12:22 pm UTC
We forgot to mention fears relating to Medical Insurance being cut off. I recall meeting somebody worked at management level for Glenby Beauty Salons, they were a large chain of salons located in big dept. stores of 1980's. That person related that because of beauty salon business being associated with Gay Male Hairdressrs, this large company had a very bad time getting & maintaing coverage for their employees. I am sure movie studios and other businesses associated w/entertainment suffered same adversity. Speaking of "star" hairstylists Suga, a NYC based stylist died of AIDS. He was best known for cutting figure skating star, Dorothy Hammil. She had a sensational cut known as the "Wedge".
Comment by: Michael (Long Beach, CA) Fri., Nov. 4, 2011 at 2:25 pm UTC
It looks like Kellee Terrell got my point:
It is those who disclose themselves that help to reduce stigma. Individuals whose HIV is "exposed" after their demise (like Asimov) only reinforces the secrecy which helps to spread this disease.
Comment by: mike (tulsa, ok) Mon., Oct. 17, 2011 at 8:00 am UTC
Magic is the poster child of having unprotected sex with many partners
Comment by: Jaybird (San Francisco) Mon., Oct. 17, 2011 at 3:04 am UTC
Who the hell is Isaac Asimov? Are you kidding me?!
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Comment by: Rockstar (Washington DC) Wed., Oct. 19, 2011 at 7:46 am UTC
He was one of the greatest Sci-Fi writers ever. You might have heard of the story collection he wrote called "I, Robot". Look him up. You'll be surprised how much he influenced.
Comment by: Maria Fri., Oct. 21, 2011 at 4:30 pm UTC
He was added to make up the amount mentioned. Never heard of him either.
Comment by: Julieb (greenville sc) Sat., Oct. 22, 2011 at 10:39 am UTC
Your ignorance is probably due to your youth.
Comment by: Bettie (Iowa) Mon., Oct. 31, 2011 at 1:57 pm UTC
Isaac Asimov was probably the most popular sci-fi author of his generation. I know my mother read his stories and so did I. HIV certainly didn't affect his writing ability.
Comment by: Richard (London) Sun., Oct. 16, 2011 at 3:02 pm UTC
Let's not forget Fela Kuti who died of KS bought on by AIDS in '97.
Comment by: HealthWorker (San Francisco, CA) Sun., Oct. 16, 2011 at 9:34 am UTC
I think the take home message from this article is that Magic Johnson tested early after his infection and got into health care to manage his disease immediately. Knowing your status and getting into care is the key. You don't have to tell anyone about your status until you are ready but seeking care is imperative to staying healthy.
Comment by: Patricia (Greenville, SC) Sun., Oct. 16, 2011 at 9:06 am UTC
Perhaps some aren't aware that efforts to fight HIV/AIDS still goes on in Freddie's name. To date over $15M has been raised:
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Comment by: Ted (New jersey) Sun., Oct. 16, 2011 at 8:11 am UTC
Peter Allen !!!!
Comment by: Antonio (VA) Sun., Oct. 16, 2011 at 8:08 am UTC
Whatever, I still think Magic found a cure. He has enough money to get one, anyhow.
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Comment by: melissa (Boston, MA) Thu., Oct. 20, 2011 at 9:15 pm UTC
I heard Magic had MANY blood transfusions over the years, and no longer tests positive.
Comment by: Art (FL) Mon., Oct. 24, 2011 at 7:55 am UTC
Magic Johnson is NOT cured. If he was, it would be public knowledge. He has the money to find the drugs necessary to keep AIDS at bay, but he still has HIV.
Comment by: Sunny (Hollywood,CA) Wed., Oct. 26, 2011 at 2:13 pm UTC
Where I live.. HIV/AIDS is still very much in the public eye. The media doesn't talk much about it nowadays because it doesn't spark the interest/gossip it once did. All over L.A there are billboards advertising free HIV testing , some have Magic on them. There is also a chain of thrift stores called "Out of the Closet" that not only donates their proceeds to HIV/AIDS community etc, but also offers free testing and they have big bowls of free condoms in every store.
Comment by: jmichel (oakland cailfornia) Sun., Oct. 30, 2011 at 10:54 am UTC
Money does not matter there is no cure for AIDS
Comment by: lisa1967 (NC) Wed., Nov. 30, 2011 at 9:37 pm UTC
I think money's a HUGE factor in fighting off AIDS-these drugs are VERY expensive, and once your ins. co. finds out ur HIV+, they'll drop u like a hot rock. So for every Magic Johnson out there, there are 10,000 more who are dying, because they cant afford the drugs:-(
Comment by: D. Williams (Washington, D. C.) Thu., Dec. 22, 2011 at 11:17 am UTC
lisa1967, my unemployed daughter has lived with the disease for over 17 years. In other words she's poor.
Comment by: Rose Young-Stewart (Whitney point, NY) Sat., Apr. 30, 2016 at 12:52 am UTC
Maybe since you typed that post in 2011 you've become more educated as far a AIDS goes. There is not a cure for Aids. Got that? remember that. NO CURE.John Holmes of the porn industry died abuut 10 yrs ago of genuine AIDS.
Comment by: Ron (Johannesburg) Sun., Oct. 16, 2011 at 6:27 am UTC
There is always a cure for a man made disease. It makes me wonder if Magic ever really had the disease. Conspiracy theorists believes that he was the poster boy to create awareness. They seem to think that AIDs came from lab monkeys released back into the wild. As for me, I don't know what to believe
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Comment by: Andie (Seattle, WA) Thu., Oct. 20, 2011 at 4:10 pm UTC
"There is always a cure for a man made disease." Everything about that sentence is incorrect.
Comment by: Dill (New York, NY) Fri., Oct. 21, 2011 at 3:55 pm UTC
You presume it was man made. THere's no evidence for that. But there is evidence that this is more than 75 years old, and was at one time very isolated.
Comment by: lisa1967 (NC) Wed., Nov. 30, 2011 at 9:45 pm UTC
I have my own theory on HIV-I believe it's a combination of many STD's(herpes, syphillis,HPV,etc),all rolled into one condition,and because it's a virus(there are no known cures for any viruses),it cannot be cured. It can be controlled, but very, very rarely is a virus of any kind cured.Was it man-made?? Maybe-but in a lab?? It's not like humans havent been used as guinnea pigs w/o their knowledge b4.
Comment by: Julie (Boston) Sat., Oct. 15, 2011 at 10:45 pm UTC
AIDS is still stigmatized even in healthcare settings. Doctors nurses and care givers once they learn someone has HIV you see their demeanor change. and people get treated differently.And who wants that?
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Comment by: norma (denve, co ) Sat., Oct. 15, 2011 at 8:52 am UTC
Asimov's family considered disclosing his condition after his death, but the controversy that erupted when Arthur Ashe announced his own HIV infection (also contracted from a blood transfusion during heart surgery) convinced them otherwise. Ten years later, after most of Asimov's doctors had died, his family agreed that the AIDS story should be made public.
Comment by: Norma (Denver, CO) Sat., Oct. 15, 2011 at 8:43 am UTC
They forgot to mention he contacted HIV from a tainted blood transfusion during heart surgery
Comment by: A. Hines (Chapel Hill, NC) Sat., Oct. 15, 2011 at 6:09 am UTC
Pedro Zamora from The Real World was the first person I "knew" with HIV/AIDS. I was young when his life was documented. Pedro humanized the disease. He lived his life to the fullest and did not apologize for being himself. Pedro was so much more than a person with HIV/AIDS. He was beautiful, strong, and courageous. Pedro helped to alleviate the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and fostered the more tolerant atmosphere that exists today. He greatly impacted my generation, and I will never forget him.
Comment by: Nisha (Detroit, MI) Fri., Oct. 14, 2011 at 2:33 pm UTC
I am touched by this article. Some I knew, one I know personally and others I did not. I think it is very important for all who have this virus to come forward so that we can work harder to support individuals with a positive status. HIV is nothing to stigmatize any longer!! We need a cure!
My heart goes out to all who have died from AIDS related complications. No more fear! Those who are famous and those who are not need to be more selective and careful with whom they have sex with. I feel that in the world of celebrity where the degrees of separation are so much smaller there needs to be more care taken in whom they engage with. I know there are a lot more celebrities who have this virus than is being shared in the media. Groupies be ware, and both men and women need to be accountable for their actions no matter what you title is. Safety is key. Gaining mastery over our libido's is a must if we are going to conquer this virus.
I must respectively add the Guitarist from the rock group RAT ROBIN died of AIDS related complications in the early 2000.
Rest in peace to all!
Comment by: lara (DC) Fri., Oct. 14, 2011 at 1:26 pm UTC
Well, Duhhh, who thought he was cured? There is no cure for HIV/AIDS. It is managed, and that's about it, for now!
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Comment by: Lori (Pgh., PA) Fri., Oct. 21, 2011 at 3:51 pm UTC
There IS a cure for HIV...there's a doc in Germany who discovered the cure rather recently.
Comment by: Havey (Los Angeles, CA) Fri., Oct. 14, 2011 at 10:32 am UTC
There is no cure for HIV, Magic is rich and can afford all the new drugs on the market.
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Comment by: blahblahblah (u.s.) Tue., Oct. 25, 2011 at 4:38 pm UTC
Just cause the drugs are new doesnt mean they will work for everybody. Once you find a combination that works you stay with it until it doesnt. I've been on the same regimen for over 10 years.
P.S. I don't see Ricky Wilson of the B-52s on the list.
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