Darin Matthew Camarena was born the second child to Larry and Beverly on September 26, 1972, in Fresno Community Hospital. In many ways, he was no different than any other boy; he loved ice cream, Michael Jackson, and idolized Rocky.
However, during his first years of life, Darin continually suffered from bruises and swollen joints which proved a mystery to his doctors despite numerous blood tests. It was not until age three that he was finally diagnosed with hemophilia, a disorder that prevents the blood from clotting normally, resulting in prolonged bleeding after injury. At age 13, a few months after a difficult recovery from surgery for scoliosis, Darin was diagnosed with HIV, contracted through numerous blood transfusions. The years that followed were filled with monthly transfusions, pills, and countless doctors’ appointments, but the combination of hemophilia and AIDS finally proved too much and Darin passed away at age 17.
Surrounded by family and friends, he left behind lasting impressions on everyone he touched. Through his struggle he taught lessons of courage and kindness, and left a lasting impression on everyone he knew. Darin’s story is not only about the bravery of a young boy—it is also about the community that came together to support his family and to preserve his dignity. The Madera School Board discreetly kept him in school and the local media agreed not to publicize his story during a time when other children were being ostracized for having AIDS. Darin’s story is also about his loving family who supported him and fought by his side.
It is to Darin, his family, and our loving community that these centers and their services are gratefully dedicated.
