The ward

de Gideon Mendel, The Fitzrovia Chapel (London)

"In 1993, Gideon Mendel spent a number of weeks photographing the Broderip and Charles Bell wards in London's Middlesex Hospital as part of the Positive Lives project. The Broderip was the first AIDS ward in London and was opened by Diana, Princess of Wales in 1987, this year marking its 30th anniversary. This was the era before antiretroviral medications had become available, a very distinct and tragic time. All of the patients on the wards, many of whom were young, gay men, were having to face the terrifying prospect of an early and painful death. Considering the high levels of stigma and fear that existed at the time, the decision of these patients to allow themselves, alongside their families, lovers and friends to be photographed was an act of considerable bravery, while the wards themselves became very special and unique places."--From publisher's website.