National Doctors Day: Dr Peter Mazzoni

March 30 is National Doctors Day, and we remember and honor our namesake, Dr. Peter Mazzoni.

An openly gay physician, Dr. Mazzoni cared for a community facing a deeply stigmatized disease at the height of the HIV/AIDS crisis. When many healthcare providers refused to treat people living with HIV/AIDS, Dr. Mazzoni chose compassion. He showed up for his patients with courage and empathy.

He became known for a bedside manner that treated patients as friends and equals by offering dignity during an incredibly difficult time.

Dr. Mazzoni passed away in 1990 at the age of 31 from AIDS-related complications. In 2003, our organization was renamed Mazzoni Center in recognition of his tireless work and his role in bridging the gap between the medical establishment and the LGBTQ+ community.