Diana was known for getting up close and personal during her official appearances, and in April 1987, she became the first member of the British royal family to come in contact with a person suffering from HIV/AIDS without any protective gear. During a visit to Middlesex hospital AIDS ward, Diana shook the hand of a dying AIDS patient without wearing gloves. "HIV does not make people dangerous to know," she said in a speech. "You can shake their hands and give them a hug. Heaven knows they need it."