Mrs. FA discovered she was HIV-positive during her second trimester. The diagnosis was a devastating blow for the 28-year-old who initially refused to start antiretroviral therapy (ART). She was not even willing to disclose her status to her husband, fearing the stigma and potential rejection from her family and community. Despite her reluctance, Mrs. FA continued to attend her prenatal check-ups at the hospital.
During these visits, she was introduced to the HSCL ACE 3 ART team, and a mentor mother from Wurno General Hospital who supported her, offering emotional counselling and gently encouraging her to start ART.
The breakthrough moment came when Mrs. FA was presented with the "Mama Pack" a delivery kit provided by the ACE3 program containing essential items for both mother and baby. This thoughtful gift, coupled with the compassionate counselling she received, made her feel at home. It became a turning point in her journey.
With the consistent encouragement from HSCL and the hospital team, Mrs. FA gradually began to understand the critical importance of ART in managing and protecting her baby from potential transmission.
After weeks of counselling, she eventually enrolled for care and began treatment. Starting ART was initially challenging, but the expectant mother remained determined. She adhered to her daily medication regimen and faithfully attended her follow-up appointments. With continued support from the ACE 3 ART team and the mentor mother, Mrs. FA finally mustered the courage to share her status with her husband. Though initially shocked, he chose to stand by her, and together they embarked on a journey of learning how to live positively with HIV. Mrs. FA’s story is one of resilience and hope, a testament to the power of support, compassion, and education in overcoming fear and stigma.
