2/11/2008

Contact: Robert Yule
202-448-8456
ryule@pedaids.org

Statement of Pamela W. Barnes, President and Chief Executive Officer, The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation

We join the nation and the Congress in mourning Representative Tom Lantos, who passed away this morning. Representative Lantos was a proud and tireless champion of human rights who overcame personal tragedy to become a universally respected leader who used his power on behalf of the disadvantaged and dispossessed, including people living with HIV/AIDS.

Representative Lantos did much more than represent one district in California. His vision, compassion, and wisdom were a driving force behind the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, which is giving hope and help to millions of people worldwide who are at risk from HIV infection and AIDS.

Those of us who knew and worked side-by-side with Representative Lantos feel a profound sense of loss. We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, family, friends, and colleagues.

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About the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation
The Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation is a worldwide leader in the fight against pediatric AIDS. Its innovative research programs, collaborative training initiatives, advocacy efforts, and rapidly expanding international prevention and treatment programs are bringing dramatic changes to the lives of children worldwide.