AIDS can destroy a family if you let it, but luckily for my sister and me, Mom taught us to keep going. Don't give up, be proud of who you are, and never feel sorry for yourself.

On December 17, 1984, I had surgery to remove two inches of my left lung due to pneumonia. After two hours of surgery the doctors told my mother I had AIDS.

My name is Ryan White. I am sixteen years old. I have hemophilia, and I have AIDS.

Entertainers, athletes, and stars started giving me support.

I came face to face with death at thirteen years old.

I received thousands of letters of support from all around the world, all because I wanted to go to school.

I was labeled a troublemaker, my mom an unfit mother, and I was not welcome anywhere.