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Prince Harry to tell secret about personal life as part of campaign to beat HIV stigma

His confession, to be released via video at 1pm, is set to coincide with World Aids Day, which highlights the shame and stigma attached to HIV

Jenn Selby
Monday 01 December 2014 11:21 GMT
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What with naked romps in Las Vegas, a spell in rehab, and an entire life played out in the public eye, you’d be forgiven for thinking Prince Harry has very little left of his personal life to reveal to us.

But the royal is never-the-less among the big names set to uncover a secret about themselves in a show of solidarity to HIV sufferers worldwide.

His confession, to be released via a video message at 1pm today, is set to coincide with World Aids Day, which highlights the shame and stigma many feel if they speak out about their debilitating viral illness.

“To show our support for the children of Lesotho, and help reduce the stigma for all those affected by HIV, we are turning this World Aids Day into a day in which no-one should feel any shame about their secrets,” Prince Harry said in a statement.

“Together, we can tackle the stigma surrounding HIV and give the young people carrying it the childhood they deserve. The childhood so many of us take for granted.”

The #FeelNoShame campaign has been launched by Prince Harry’s co-founded charity Sentebale.

Other big names expected to show their support include Ricky Hatton, Nicole Scherzinger, Gemma Arterton, Ricky Tomlinson, Joss Stone, Jools Holland, Louis Smith, Paloma Faith and Ralph Little.

Their secrets are set to be revealed in 30-minute intervals from 6am to 4pm.

“Globally, HIV is the second-highest cause of death amongst those aged between 10-19 years old, and it is the number one cause of death across Africa,” he continued.

“One tragic issue in particular is the shame and stigma linked to HIV.

“This causes thousands of children to needlessly die each year because they're keeping their illness a secret and not getting the medical attention they need.”

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