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.
DONALD BRUCE FANUS - born in 1938 to Mr & Mrs Bruce H. Fanus, his father working in the tax department of the state capitol. In March 1983 Don relocated from New York City to Florida1983, seeking new opportunities that ultimately led him to a position in the mail department of Fort Lauderdale's main library by December of the same year. During his application process, Fanus chose to withhold a critical truth; he had been diagnosed with AIDS just months prior, in April 1983, along with Kaposi Sarcoma, a type of skin cancer associated with AIDS. Only weeks after his AIDS diagnosis Don attempted to end his life with sleeping pills and spent three days in hospital.
Don (Right) 6th May 1949, aged 12
By October 1984, his employer discovered his health status, resulting in a three-month paid sick leave that offered little respite. However, on 31st December 1984, Fanus was dismissed from his role, marking him as the second employee of Broward County to be fired solely due to an AIDS diagnosis, following Todd Shuttleworth's termination in September 1983. The director’s decision was driven by an unfounded concern that Fanus might transmit AIDS to his colleagues. “I feel like a leper” Don told his friends.
At 47, Don was an imposing figure, tall and muscular, making it impossible for those who crossed his path to forget him. His close friend, Leonard Peckitt, continued to fight for justice on behalf of Don and his court claim two years after Don's untimely death. Don's life came to an end at his home in Lauderdale Lakes at 22:45 on the evening of 12th September 1985, with Leonard by his side, a poignant detail that underscored their bond. He was just shy of his 49th birthday, leaving behind a legacy shaped by the strength of his character and the enigmatic nature of his relationships.
Florida Sun: 17th Sept 1987 (Click to Open)
Leonard, reflecting on the protracted negotiations surrounding Don's estate, acknowledged the resolution reached in September 1987 to settle the $20 million claim for a reduced amount of $19,500. Although two years had elapsed since Don's passing, Leonard expressed uncertainty about how Don would have perceived the settlement, particularly regarding the potential implications it might set for future cases. “I don’t know how Don would have felt at this point about setting any precedents. It’s been dragging on for two years at this point. I think that’s long enough. This looked like the best thing to do,” Leonard remarked. This statement encapsulated his frustration with the drawn-out process while highlighting a desire to bring closure to the matter, despite the financial reduction involved.
USA AIDS Memorial Quilt Block 0386
