Aust. Girl, Aged 3, Has A.i.d.s.—family (Press, 18 April 1986)

On 18 April 1986, it was reported that Eve van Grafhorst, a three-year-old girl from Kincumber, New South Wales, was diagnosed with Aids following blood tests conducted in Napier, New Zealand. This diagnosis came after her family sought clarity due to inconsistent test results from Sydney. Eve's grandmother, Marion Taylor, announced that the tests confirmed Eve had the virus, although the potential for the disease to become fatal remained unknown. It is believed that Eve contracted the virus through blood transfusions during her early infancy. Eve and her mother were scheduled to return to Australia the following day, with Mrs Taylor stating that the family would "just carry on with the treatment and look after her." In a television interview, Mrs van Grafhorst expressed her concerns about returning home, noting that the family had faced social stigma, as some neighbours were wary of Eve, fearing she could transmit the disease. Despite these challenges, she described Eve as appearing healthy and normal, indicating that the family was bracing for uncertainty regarding the future. The family received immense support from the New Zealand community, with many individuals sending letters, gifts, and offering companionship for Eve. However, Mrs van Grafhorst described the impending return to Australia with awareness of Eve's positive diagnosis as "horrific," highlighting the emotional toll of the situation.

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