Elizabeth Taylor’s Attorney and Friend Recalls Sharing Stories with the Star About Her Volunteer Work on a Hospital AIDS Floor (Exclusive)

**Elizabeth Taylor: A Pioneering Advocate for HIV/AIDS Awareness**

Elizabeth Taylor emerged as one of the first prominent figures to advocate passionately for the HIV/AIDS community during the early days of the epidemic. Known not only for her impressive acting career, Taylor’s commitment to raising awareness and supporting those affected by the disease has left a lasting impact long after her passing in 2011 at the age of 79. Her efforts remain significant through The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, which continues to serve the community with vital resources and support.

Taylor’s influence extended beyond mere celebrity status; she was a catalyst for change in attitudes towards HIV/AIDS at a time when misinformation and stigma ran rampant. Her attorney, Barbara Berkowitz, reflected on how Taylor not only supported the cause publicly but also motivated those around her to take action in their own lives and careers. Berkowitz’s path was profoundly shaped by Taylor’s encouragement, which inspired her to launch her own law firm, taking a leap of faith that seemed daunting at the time.

“Taylor’s unwavering support came at a crucial moment,” Berkowitz recounted. “When she noticed I was struggling at my previous law firm, she invited me over to discuss my options. Despite my fears, she encouraged me to go out on my own, assuring me that she would be my first client.” This encouragement not only bolstered Berkowitz’s confidence but also embodied Taylor’s commitment to pro bono work for the AIDS community. “She expressed that if people were willing to contribute to the AIDS Foundation, their donations should not be diminished by my fees, which was a fair arrangement,” Berkowitz noted.

In addition to her professional influence, Taylor’s passion for supporting the HIV/AIDS community extended to personal connections and community service. Berkowitz shared her own experiences of trying to volunteer with the POOCH Program at Cedars-Sinai, which pairs therapy dogs with patients in need. After numerous attempts to secure a position, she was finally offered a role in the AIDS unit, despite the fears surrounding the disease at that time.

“I was aware of the misconceptions about how HIV was transmitted. It wasn’t just about being around those patients; I understood that it could not be contracted through casual contact,” Berkowitz offered. Her dedication culminated in her and her dog, Chase, becoming part of the POOCH Program, where they provided companionship to patients in the AIDS unit. Taylor was always eager to hear about Berkowitz’s experiences, as they shared stories about the lives they were both touching.

Berkowitz recollected some particularly moving moments during her time volunteering. “I often called Elizabeth to update her on the gratitude expressed by the patients. They were thankful for her willingness to step into the fray when not many others would,” she said. This communication reinforced the invaluable role that Taylor played in the community and the significant changes being made in the lives of those suffering from HIV/AIDS.

The ongoing evolution of treatment options eventually led to the closure of the AIDS floor at Cedars-Sinai, an indication of progress made in managing the disease. Yet, the foundation established by pioneers like Taylor and advocates like Berkowitz serves as a reminder of the battles fought during the early years of the epidemic and the ongoing need for awareness and compassion.

Elizabeth Taylor’s legacy as a trailblazer in the fight against HIV/AIDS is a testament to her character and the influence one individual can have on a community. Her work laid the groundwork for a more informed dialogue surrounding HIV/AIDS and inspired countless others to engage in advocacy and support efforts.

As Taylor’s foundation continues its mission, the spirit of her activism and the communities she touched remain alive. The stories and struggles shared by Berkowitz and others highlight how celebrity advocacy can result in tangible change, inspiring both professional paths and community outreach initiatives in ways that uplift and empower. Taylor’s journey reminds us that the fight against stigma and for equality in health is ongoing, and her legacy continues to inspire a new generation of advocates today.