Dallas Buyers Club 2013

Ron Upsets Fellow Rodeo Attendees

In July 1985, in Dallas, Texas, Ron Woodroof, a rough-and-tumble electrician and rodeo cowboy, finds himself in trouble after skimming money from a bet. To escape the wrath of his fellow rodeo attendees, he receives unexpected help from a police officer who pretends to arrest him.

Accident at Work

Ron suffers a serious accident while trying to save a Latin worker caught in a machine, resulting in severe electrical injuries. Unconscious and vulnerable, he is rushed to the hospital for treatment.

Diagnosis of H.I.V.

Upon waking in the hospital, Ron receives devastating news from Dr. Eve Saks and her colleague: he has been diagnosed with H.I.V. and given only 30 days to live. This shocking revelation drastically alters the course of his life.

Reflecting on the Past

In disbelief over his diagnosis, Ron reflects on a past encounter with a prostitute who was an IV drug user. This memory leads him to connect the dots regarding how he contracted the virus, deepening his resolve to fight for his life.

Journey to Mexico

Frustrated with the lack of available treatments in the U.S., Ron decides to venture across the border into Mexico. There, he discovers alternative therapies at a disreputable clinic run by Dr. Vass, revealing new hope for managing his condition.

Smuggling Therapies

Empowered by his discoveries in Mexico, Ron begins to smuggle back the alternative treatments he has found. His actions demonstrate a defiant stand against the established medical practices and a desperation to survive.

Friendship with Rayon

Ron meets Rayon, a transsexual AIDS patient, who soon becomes a close ally in his fight against the disease. Despite initial homophobic attitudes, their bond deepens as they unite to help others in the H.I.V.-positive community.

Creating the Buyers Club

Together, Ron and Rayon establish a buyers club, making the medications they have sourced accessible to others living with H.I.V. This initiative not only helps those in need but also kindles a sense of solidarity among the afflicted.

Challenges of Running the Club

As they manage the buyers club, Ron and Rayon face the many challenges that come with it, including the pressure of legal and medical scrutiny. Their operation grows, revealing the lengths they are willing to go to for their community.

Confrontation with Dr. Saks

The relationship between Ron and Dr. Saks evolves as she expresses concern over the legality and morality of his actions. Despite her warnings, Ron’s relentless determination to live leads him down an increasingly risky path.

Personal Health Decline

As time progresses, both Ron and Rayon face health crises; addiction begins to take its toll on Rayon, and Ron's health deteriorates as well. Their journey of resilience is met with heartbreak amid their shared struggles.

Legal Battle Against the FDA

Ron embarks on a significant legal battle against the FDA, driven by the need for access to the medications that can extend his life. This pivotal confrontation culminates in a hearing that changes the landscape of treatment availability for many.

A Legacy of Resolve

Ron Woodroof becomes a symbol of tenacity, fighting bravely against the adversities of his diagnosis. His journey is marked by personal victories and tragedies, ultimately leaving a profound impact on the fight against AIDS.