Nurses on the Inside: Stories from the Frontlines of the AIDS Epidemic

by Ellen Matzer, Valery Hughes

Nurses On The Inside details the stories of two nurses who witnessed the frontline of the early years of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Although some of the names, locations, and events have been changed or dramatized, it is important to remember this is what really happened to them, and it happened not only to them in New York, but in San Francisco, LA, Miami, and dozens of other cities in the US. Ellen and Valery were not alone, there were hundreds of nurses who went through this experience. They want to tell this story to give a voice to a generation lost, allowing the world to remember. This history cannot be repeated.

247 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 19, 2025

Reviews

[NursesontheInside Matzer&Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible stories of loss, courage, and hope. This book brings readers straight to the front lines of New York City during the height of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, offering an unflinching look into the hospital rooms and lives of those who fought to survive—patients and nurses alike.

Nurses on the Inside is more than just a memoir; it’s a vital piece of healthcare history and a testament to the power of compassion under pressure. Through gripping firsthand accounts, the book honors the resilience of the nurses who showed up day after day with unwavering dedication, even as they faced fear, uncertainty, and overwhelming grief.

It’s also a powerful reminder of what is at stake when access to HIV treatment and prevention is threatened. The stories told here serve as a call to action, underscoring the critical role of nurses and healthcare workers—not just in providing care, but in advocating for patients, public health, and human dignity.

This book doesn’t just look back. It urges us to remember, to recognize the warning signs of history repeating itself, and to recommit to protecting the most vulnerable. A moving, necessary read.

[Cristela T · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had to put this book down and not even look at it for a couple of days more than once. I was loving it, it’s just that some of the stories made me me really sad…especially knowing all of these “characters” were real people with real lives. People that mattered. Ellen and Valery are true heroes. To did what they did at the time that they did it was incredible courageous. In many cases they were the only people who treated these patients with care and dignity. I think this book is an absolute must read for anyone wanting to know more about the HIV/AIDS epidemic.

The only thing I didn’t like too much were the chapters when they talked about the past and were like “remember when we did this?” or “remember this patient?.” I don’t think it was necessary.

[Stacy Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an illuminating read. I was too young to understand how dire the aids epidemic was in the 80s and early 90s. I had no idea how horribly this disease effected the body. That coupled with the stigma that was associated with the disease… it’s just heartbreaking to think about what so many went through.

[cherie thurner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extraordinary, story. As a nurse who worked thru this time, I say thank you. It was a time of great courage and cowardness. The structure was hard to follow at times. Never forget