The Life and Legacy of Ryan White

Jeanne White-Ginder

Saturday, November 17, 2012
2:45 pm to 4:15 pm
Grand Ballroom

One week before Christmas in 1984 Jeanne White-Ginder was told that her son Ryan, a hemophiliac, had contracted HIV from a tainted blood product.  Although doctors gave him only six months to live, Ryan’s outlook was positive and he was determined to live a relatively normal life.  He wanted to stay in school and Jeanne was determined to give her son his dream.

Jeanne and Ryan both became reluctant celebrities, and Jeanne become an educator of the masses.  She relentlessly and compassionately fought for equal rights for her son, and she tirelessly fought against the stigma and discrimination that Ryan and the family encountered.  Up until Ryan’s death on April 8, 1990, Jeanne stood steadfastly by his side and supported him as he realized his dreams to attend public school, earn a driver’s license and succeed as an honor roll student.

Since losing her son, Jeanne has worked to ensure that Ryan’s legacy of compassion and education continue.  Sher regularly addresses audiences of adolescents to educate them about personal, family and community issues impacted by HIV/AIDS.  She has published Ryan’s book, advocated for the Ryan White CARE Act, authored her own books, and spoken throughout the country about her experiences.  It is her hope that Ryan’s story and name will be forever linked with tolerance, acceptance, hope and compassion.

ANAC is pleased to welcome Jeanne to speak at our 25th Annual Conference to share her story.