Empowering Young Lives: How HIV Patients in Gujarat Break the Stigma | Ahmedabad News

Ahmedabad: It came as a rude shock to Zankhana (name changed), 23, a native of south Gujarat, when she learned that the condition for which she was taking medication was AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). “I was a science student of class 11 when I was asked to visit one antiretroviral therapy (ART) center. I knew what AIDS meant. I felt betrayed by both my parents HIV patientsdid not mention my condition to me,” said Zankhana, who works with an NGO.
“It affected me mentally and physically and I took a year’s break from my studies. Today I understand my parents’ decision to wait until I was emotionally mature to reveal everything. Maybe they didn’t know how to do that,” she says. adds.
“Today we help teens and young adults through their transition. We teach them about self-care practices and the importance of regular medication,” she continues. She is one of many young people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Gujarat who are working to eradicate the social stigma associated with the condition.
Come on World AIDS Dayobserved on December 1, self-help groups in Gujarat said medication and a strong support system have extended the life expectancy of their 1.2 lakh members and enabled them to pursue professional courses.
Daxa Patel, program director of the Gujarat State Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS (GSNP+), said their community includes doctors, engineers, designers and physiotherapists. “They have become the guiding light for others, ensuring that their identity is not defined by their HIV status,” she said.
Bhavna (name changed), a member of GSNP+, said she is now taking on leadership roles in state and national organizations in the field of HIV/AIDS as a youth ambassador. “From explaining the cause of HIV to promoting safe sex and addressing psychological trauma, I do everything I can to ensure that patients do not skip their ART regimens,” she says.