Alexis Arquette battled HIV for 29 years before her death: report

Alexis Arquette was living with HIV for 29 years before her passing on Sept. 11.

(Matt Sayles/AP)

 

BY Nicole Bitette

 

NEW YORK DAILY NEWS

 

Tuesday, September 20, 2016

 

 

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Alexis Arquette reportedly battled HIV for 29 years before her tragic passing on Sept. 11.
The 47-year-old transgender actress died of a heart attack after suffering from a bacterial infection for three weeks in the hospital, a death certificate obtained by TMZ revealed.

The document notes that HIV was the underlying cause of death for the star, despite previous reports that stated Arquette died from complications from AIDS.

AIDS, or acquired immunodefeiciency syndrome, is the final stage of HIV, but not everyone with HIV advances to the stage.

‘The Wedding Singer’ actress Alexis Arquette dead at 47 

 
Arquette, born Robert, did not advance to the final stage of AIDS, according to the document. The actress obtained the virus when she was living as a male teenager.

In 2006, the star revealed her transition and was an outspoken champion for transgender rights.

“The Wedding Singer” star appeared in dozens of film roles throughout her long career, which began in 1989.

Actors Alexis Arquette (L), Rosanna Arquette and Patricia Arquette (R) in 2004.

((Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images))

Some of her siblings also found fame in the entertainment world. She was related to actors David and Patricia Arquette.

Alexis Arquette died of complications from AIDS: report
 
Following her death, her brother Richard Arquette released a statement on her passing.
"In the days leading to her death, she told us she was already visiting the other side,” the release read. “And that where she was going, there was only one gender. That on the other side, we are free from all of the things that separate us in this life, and that we are all one.”

 

Article from the NEW YORK DAILY NEWS.