Mthatha, Ahoy!: World AIDS Day

Greetings all!

Today is World AIDS Day. The purpose of World AIDS Day is to raise awareness and rally together in the fight against HIV/AIDS. These things, however, should be (and are) happening every day of the year; today is just a focal point. More than raising awareness, World AIDS Day is about support for those living with HIV/AIDS and remembrance of those who have died as a result of the disease. Having such a day is important to the struggle against HIV/AIDS because it encourages an open discussion of the disease, which is often not found. There are lots of stigmas and stereotypes surrounding HIV/AIDS and without breaking through those barriers, the endemic will continue. Today, at Itipini, more people than I have ever seen on the veranda gathered together to show their support for the day. Sister Dorothy (the other nurse at the clinic) gave a talk about HIV/AIDS and the importance of being tested, having your partner tested, and taking care of yourself. One of our patients gave her personal testimony. This woman, two years ago, was so weak that she could hardly walk or move and was beyond skinny. She finally got tested and began an ARV (anti-retroviral) regimen. Today, she is one of the most lively (and sweet) women you will find around Itipini. She is healthy and vibrant and you would never know that she is living HIV from looking at her. She has taken control, but she hasn’t been able to do it alone. It is because she was open and honest about what she was dealing with that she got the support she needed from friends, family, and health-care workers. After the talks, everyone received a white candle and as we passed the flame from one person to the next, we sang songs and said prayers. Once all of the candles were lit and the singing finished, we made a pact to help and support one another and do those things within our means to stop the spread of HIV. To know more about World AIDS Day, visit http://www.worldaidsday.org/

Most importantly, get into the conversation.