Secrets, Aids And Faith: The Story Of Joyce Claypool A Voice To Overcome The Whispers

To some, Joyce Claypool is an inspirational heroine. Others see her as a tragic victim. A few believe she got what she deserved.

Claypool’s life is extraordinary by any standard. In 32 years, she has experienced a broader range of emotions than most people who’ve lived twice as long.

Today, a four-part look at this widow, mother and AIDS education advocate begins in IN Life.

Spokesman-Review reporter Carla K. Johnson reconstructed Claypool’s story from court documents, medical records, family photographs and more than 30 interviews.

Photographer Steve Thompson followed her family for 2-1/2 years to produce a series of poignant images.

Claypool is a Spokane girl who grew up surrounded by family secrets.

As a young woman, she fell in love with a charmer with huge potential and fatal addictions.

Today, she’s a mother who has found strength speaking honestly about a feared disease that infected her and her daughter.

They brought AIDS education to schools, service clubs, medical institutions and women’s groups. They won the admiration of many in the Inland Northwest.

Don’t miss “Secrets, AIDS and Faith: The Story of Joyce Claypool” beginning today on Page D1.

, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Color photo