AIDS: THE LOST VOICES
Todd Shuttleworth, at the age of 31, faced life-altering news when he was diagnosed with AIDS in June 1984, a devastating revelation that led to his employer, in Broward County, Florida, discovering his condition and subsequently terminating his position as a Budget Analyst.
Todd became one of the first individuals in the United States to take legal action against the county for wrongful dismissal, marking the beginning of a protracted legal battle that paralleled his personal struggle with the illness. As he sought treatment in San Francisco, Todd's journey became emblematic of a broader fight for rights and recognition amidst the stigma surrounding AIDS, showcasing his resilience in the face of both societal and institutional challenges. Through the tumultuous years that followed, his determination to advocate for justice reflected a deeper commitment to not only his own health but also to the welfare of others facing similar battles.
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TODD FORBES SHUTTLEWORTH was born on 25th May 1953 in Burlington, Vermont, to Edwin Shuttleworth and Amanda Gertrude Zardecki, the youngest of two children, with an older sister, Gayna “Gay” Shuttleworth Davies. Although he did not always have a harmonious relationship with his parents, his father working for the department of Education and his mother a school teacher, Todd developed a profound love for sports, particularly basketball, during his formative years. Interestingly, Florida newspaper archives reveal that in his teenage years, he was an accomplished golfer, frequently placing first or second in various junior competitions.
Eventually, Todd made the decision to leave Florida for San Francisco, accompanied by his beloved dog, Billie Jean. At that time, he was in a relationship with Steven James Tempone, a successful celebrity agent, who outlived Todd but tragically passed away in 2010 at the age of 51. Todd's life came to a premature end due to AIDS-related complications on 26th July 1987, at just 34 years old. He was laid to rest in Laurel Hill Cemetery, Georgia, where he was survived by his parents and sister, all of whom have since passed away.
