Wendel Abel - I AM WHAT I THINKTHERE IS hope! HIV/ AIDS is now perceived as a chronic disease like diabetes or hypertension and although it cannot be cured it can be treated with proper treatment.
The sad news! It is a highly contagious condition and, unfortunately, a quarter of persons infected with the virus are not aware that they are. If it is not properly treated it will result in death.
Mary had a medical done for insurance purposes. Harry had a medical done for the embassy. Both healthy persons but their results came back positive for HIV. It was devastating for them both.
"I thought it was the end of my life. I could not tell anyone. I was fearful people would reject me, the disgrace. I would be scorned. I kept this to myself until my condition deteriorated. I started to lose weight. I developed rashes all over my body. My hair changed. Soon everyone was talking. I ended up in hospital. My condition is far advanced, if only I had dealt with it before," reported Harry.
Mary was shocked at first. She cried for an entire week. Soon after she went to see her doctor and discussed the matter. Mary started to receive counselling and read extensively on the disease. She discussed the matter with her family. They became very supportive and protective of her. Her best friends knew and they supported her. This is 10 years later.
"I am doing fine. I am in excellent health," said Mary. "I have found a partner who is aware of my condition and he has accepted me."
Two different persons diagnosed with HIV/ AIDS, two different experiences. Mary accepted the condition, disclosed to close family and friends and decided to deal with the condition. As a result she is living a productive and rewarding life. The other person, Harry, hid it from other persons and refused to deal with it. He remained in denial and his condition has gotten progressively worse.
SURVIVAL TIPS
If you are infected with the AIDS virus or have AIDS here some tips to survive:
1. Accept that you have the condition. Denial is dangerous, it prevents you from taking the right steps and doing the right things
2. Disclose to those close to you. It helps. Most persons are aware of HIV/ AIDS and by disclosing you are able to mobilise the support of those who are around you. You then achieve the freedom to discuss the disorder, to comply with treatment and to take your medication
3. Discuss the matter with your doctor. Doctors are confidential and non- judgmental
4. Start medication on the recommendation of your doctor as early as possible. There many persons walking around with HIV/AIDs who are on medication and, like Mary, are living productive lives. Do not listen to rumours. Read about the condition and make informed decisions
5. Join a support group. There are a number of support groups around, CHARES, Jamaica AIDS Support and so on. Get connected and stay connected. Support groups provide emotional support, information and an opportunity for you to socialise and develop friendship with other persons
6. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat right, sleep right and exercise well. Avoid cigarettes, alcohol and other drugs
7. Maintain a positive and optimistic outlook. Persons who are positive in their attitudes do better. They comply with their treatment better and take care of themselves.
8. Remember the A ,B, C of life. Abstinence from sex is best; Be faithful and Condom, always use one.
Remember HIV/AIDS is not a death sentence. Live and let live.
If you know someone or know of someone who has HIV/AIDS you make a difference in their life if you extend a hand of friendship or care. If you can, sponsor their medication. You may save
a life.
Dr. Wendel Abel is a Consultant Psychiatrist and Senior Lecturer,
University of the West Indies.
