How Matthew Shepard's Parents Are Healing Their Broken Hearts

In October 1998, Matthew Shepard, a gay college student, was abducted, beaten, tied to a fence and left for dead. The world was shocked by the brutality of the crime, and millions mourned when Matthew died days after he was found.

Now, 16 years after Matthew's murder thrust his parents, Dennis and Judy Shepard, into the battle against bigotry, they open up to Oprah about preserving their son's memory. Judy and Dennis say they started the Matthew Shepard Foundation with money that people had sent to help pay their son's hospital bills. "[Kids] needed a way to feel like they belonged and to help them in their futures," Judy says. "It just sort of took on a life of its own."

Watch as Matthew's parents discuss how the country's view of homosexuality has changed over the years. Plus, find out how they're healing their broken hearts.

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