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Martin Sheen Chokes Up While Talking About Son’s HIV Diagnosis

Kaitlan Collins Contributor
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Martin Sheen got choked up while talking about his son’s HIV diagnosis Tuesday night.

The “West Wing” actor said he wished he had as much courage as Charlie Sheen did.

“He had been leading up to this sort of story for several months, and we kept encouraging him to do it,” Sheen told an audience. “And he kept backing away and backing away because it was like going to his own execution, I guess.” (RELATED: Charlie Sheen Confirms He’s HIV-Positive)

Martin Sheen calls Charlie Sheen 'courageous.'

(Photo: Vince Bucci/Getty Images)

“We didn’t know until he walked on the set this morning that he was going to do it. I couldn’t believe the level of courage I was witnessing, and that it was my son.” (RELATED: Heather Locklear Breaks Her Silence On Charlie Sheen’s HIV Diagnosis)

Sheen, a former alcoholic, was near tears.

“As a father, I dare say that if I were to ask, just a general question in this room, how many of you have children or spouses or nieces, nephews, uncles, clients, who are dealing with drugs or alcohol. I dare say that there isn’t a person in here that wouldn’t raise their hand.”

“I left him a message, and I said that if I had that much courage, I would change the world.” (PHOTOS: The Women Charlie Sheen Didn’t Tell About His HIV)