Ricky, Robert, and Randy were hemophiliacs who contracted HIV from infusions of Factor VIII when they were less than 8 years old.
[1] As a compromise, the DeSoto County School Board offered the brothers a portable, self-contained classroom on campus away from other students.
The family turned the proposition down, and in June 1987, they sued the school system, claiming wrongful segregation.
[2] Following the court ruling, the Rays' home was burned down in less than a week, forcing the family to leave Arcadia.
In 1992, he allowed camera crews to document his declining health and stated he wanted to educate the public and raise awareness.