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President Barack Obama released a statement that week saying "Father Damien challenged the stigmatizing effects of the disease, giving voice to the voiceless and ultimately sacrificing his own life to bring dignity to so many. |
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In our own time as millions around the world suffer from disease, especially the pandemic of HIV / AIDS, we should draw on the example of Father Damien's resolve in answering the urgent call to heal and care for the sick." |
