Caring for People Affected by HIV & AIDS in Nepal

Ramesh*, who is living with HIV, attended the annual picnic event that AIDSLink Nepal hosted in a peaceful garden.  The picnic is for people who are part of the HIV support group and whose children are in the school sponsorship programme.

Ramesh was always busy working, and was rarely able to spend quality time with his family.  Things began to change when we invited him and his family to the picnic.  This annual event seeks to connect people living with HIV, and establish a network of support through relationship building.  Ramesh felt honored that he was invited, and took the time to attend.

“At the picnic, I learnt that as a family we need some time of refreshment together. It’s an opportunity to get to know each other better,” expressed Ramesh. He realised through knowing his family more, that they can support and love each other better.  Ramesh discovered that his family was happy and the picnic gave them an opportunity to get to know other families, in similar situations.  This provided a chance for families to share their life stories with each other, creating a deep level of peer understanding.  We continue to provide avenues for people like Ramesh to receive support, guidance and love in a healthy environment. 

It has been great to be able to organize this picnic. People came from all over Nepal, 78 attended. We played different games and enjoyed traditional dancing and music.

We are so grateful that we were able to organise this picnic. Without the funds that we have received we would not be able to support the children in attending school and do things like this. We seek to educate, support and provide guidance for people infected and affected by HIV and AIDS.

*Name Changed.

Due to the sensitive nature of HIV work, a photo of Ramesh has not been included.

We are grateful for all those who gave and continue to give and share about the work in Nepal. The Care Centre was able to provide services for 5 new and 19 existing clients this month. They also helped 24 new patients access care at the hospital and ran a mini HIV awareness workshop.

Below is just one story of someone whose hope has been restored, thanks to your help.

Sunil*, from AIDSLink Nepal, met Kavita*, who was in tears at the hospital after discovering she had contracted HIV from her husband.  Kavita, like many people in Nepal, knew nothing about HIV, except the incorrect idea that you die immediately after contracting the virus. 

Sunil and his team immediately started counselling and educating Kavita, showing her there is life after diagnosis. Kavita, knowing nothing about the virus or how to care for herself after diagnosis, benefitted greatly from the guidance received from AIDSLink Nepal staff.  They also took her to a local hospital for treatment, regular testing, and Antiretroviral Therapy. 

Over time, Kavita moved from feeling hopeless, weak and empty, to feeling joy, hope and peace.  She no longer felt like her life was ending, but rather she grew stronger once again with proper nutrition, rest and medical care.  Even her husband, who once had become too weak to walk, was able to walk again and help around the house. “Through AIDSLink Nepal, I learnt that HIV positive people can have a long, healthy, and peaceful life, full of joy,” exclaimed Kavita.

*Names changed

Due to the sensitive nature of HIV ministry, a photo of Kavita has not been included.