Life after HIV diagnosis
2006-12-14
Kwezi Shumi
BEING told that you are HIV positive is stressful and heartbreaking, not to mention emotionally disturbing.
Many people are disowned by their families, chased away and may even become suicidal.
This is what makes the story of Nontembiso Tom, a 42-year-old mother from Mbekweni who is living positively and openly with HIV/Aids, so special.
She poured her heart out during the recent World Aids Day commemoration event held in Mbekweni.
Many heroes and heroines have put a face to this devastating disease, by breaking the silence.
Some succumbed before their pleas and wishes were granted.
Nontembiso spoke of her life as a disadvantaged woman, diagnosed with HIV in 2002 at Mbekweni clinic, of her struggle with her condition and to accept her status.
She became a Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) activist and learnt more about HIV/Aids and related illnesses like tuberculosis.
“HIV/Aids is perpetuated by the vicious cycle of poverty, which not only worsens one’s condition but makes it extremely difficult to take medication,” she says.
Nontembiso is now on antiretroviral medication.
“ARVs have given me a second chance in life and I want to make the best out of it.”
And like any parent she would like to see her children grow up and be independent.
“Efforts to remove the stigma attached to HIV/Aids, and leading a responsible sexual life, are little steps towards generations free from Aids.”
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