In the recently published biography “Elizabeth Taylor: The Grit and Glamour of an Icon” by Kate Andersen Brower, it is revealed that Ron and Nancy Reagan, who were long-time friends with Rock Hudson, turned their backs on the ailing star when he was battling AIDS.
During a White House party in 1984, Nancy Reagan was taken aback by Hudson's deteriorating health and advised him to have a mole on his neck examined.
Following her suggestion, Hudson underwent a biopsy that confirmed he had AIDS on June 5, 1984.
A year later, as Hudson prepared to disclose his diagnosis publicly, his publicist reached out to the Reagans seeking assistance in securing treatment for him at a French hospital specializing in experimental therapies.
Despite the plea, the Reagans declined to intervene, leaving Hudson without their support during his time of need.
In stark contrast, Elizabeth Taylor, who had developed a close bond with Hudson while filming “Giant” in 1956, stood by his side throughout his ordeal.
When Hudson returned to Los Angeles, Taylor visited him and was dismayed to find a group of Hollywood figures praying around him without offering physical comfort.
She disregarded the formalities and embraced Hudson, providing him with the warmth and care he needed in his final days.
Despite Taylor's unwavering support, Hudson's condition continued to deteriorate rapidly, ultimately leading to his passing at the age of 59 on October 2, 1985.
Taylor remained with him until the end, offering solace and companionship in his final moments.
In the wake of Hudson's death, Elizabeth Taylor emerged as a fierce advocate for AIDS awareness and research.
She co-founded the American Foundation for AIDS Research in 1985 and established the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, raising substantial funds for the cause and testifying before Congress to promote AIDS awareness and support.
Taylor's activism extended beyond fundraising; she personally contributed $50,000 to Project Inform in San Francisco to aid in acquiring experimental drugs for AIDS patients when such treatments were still prohibited.
Additionally, Taylor opened her Bel Air residence to accommodate those afflicted by the disease, demonstrating her commitment to providing comfort and care to those in need.
Recognizing the importance of human connection in the face of illness, Taylor engaged in unpublicized visits to hospices, offering physical touch and emotional support to patients.
Her genuine compassion and dedication to alleviating the suffering of AIDS patients left a lasting impact on the community and highlighted the significance of empathy in healthcare.
In a poignant address at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, in 1987, Taylor reflected on her journey from frustration to activism in response to the AIDS crisis.
Driven by the pervasive silence and lack of support surrounding the epidemic, she channeled her anger into action, becoming a prominent voice in the fight against AIDS and advocating for increased awareness and compassion towards those affected by the disease.
Elizabeth Taylor's legacy as a compassionate advocate for AIDS patients endures, showcasing the profound impact of individual initiative and empathy in confronting societal challenges.
Her tireless efforts to raise awareness, provide support, and instill hope in the face of adversity stand as a testament to the transformative power of compassion and solidarity in times of crisis.
