Ahmedabad: It came as a rude shock for 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 Class 11 science student when I was asked to visit an anti-retroviral therapy (ART) centre. I knew what AIDS meant. I felt betrayed that my parents, both HIV patients, did not mention my condition to me," says Zankhana, who is working with an NGO.
"It affected me mentally and physically and I took a break from my studies for a year. Today, I understand my parents' decision to wait until I was emotionally mature to reveal all. Perhaps they did not know how to do it," she adds.
"Today, we assist teens and young adults through their transitio. We teach them about self-care practices and the importance of regular medication," she further says. She is one of many young people living with HIV (PLHIV) in Gujarat who are working to eliminate social stigma associated with the condition.
Ahead of World AIDS Day, observed on Dec 1, self-help groups in Gujarat said that medication and a strong support system have extended the life expectancy of their 1.2 lakh members and enabled them to take up professional courses.
Daxa Patel, programme director of 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 up leadership roles in state and national organizations in the HIV/AIDS field as a youth ambassador. "Right from explaining what causes HIV to promoting safe sex and addressing psychological trauma, I do it all to ensure patients do not skip their ART schedules," she says.