Ryan White (1971-1990)

Kokomo native Ryan White was diagnosed with AIDS in 1984 after contracting the virus from a contaminated hemophilia treatment. During a time of fear and misunderstanding about AIDS, he faced intense discrimination from his community and was prevented from attending school in his hometown. After his family moved to Cicero, Hamilton Heights High School welcomed him in 1987 and developed an acclaimed AIDS education campaign in anticipation of his arrival. While battling the disease, White raised national AIDS awareness, spoke before the Presidential Commission on the HIV Epidemic, and was named Sagamore of the Wabash for his advocacy. Soon after his death, the Ryan White CARE Act passed, providing funds for HIV/AIDS treatment.

Indiana · United States