In 1997, AHF’s Linn House came alive with a special celebration called Merry Old England, a themed event crafted to honor hospice residents living with HIV/AIDS. Far more than a party, the event created a space for togetherness, warmth, and shared celebration at a time when belonging and dignity carried deep significance for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Linn House was AHF’s third and final hospice, a 25-bed residential AIDS care facility in West Hollywood distinguished by its beautiful grounds and home-like character. Built to provide compassionate care for people living with HIV/AIDS, Linn House stood as a testament to dignity and comfort during a critical period in the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
The Merry Old England event invited residents and staff to dress in richly patterned fabrics and featured castle-themed décor, which helped to bring the medieval theme to life. These details played an important role in helping residents feel celebrated, valued, and deeply included in something festive and uplifting. Alongside hospice care, AHF staff at Linn House showed their commitment to dignity and humanity by fully immersing themselves in resident-focused events like Merry Old England.
The Merry Old England event at Linn House reflects AHF’s broader commitment to holistic care, which extends far beyond medical treatment. By creating spaces for shared experience, AHF honored not only the daily lives of those living with HIV/AIDS but also their resilience, spirit, and humanity. Looking back on Merry Old England today reminds us of how celebration, compassion, and community were and remain essential elements in AHF’s fight against HIV/AIDS.
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