Hard questions are tackled
FOURWAYS – Witkoppen Clinic host another informative Cuddlers event. HIV was the topic of the day as mothers and social experts exchanged knowledge.
The most recent mothers support session at Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre tackled some of the hard questions around HIV – how, when and to whom you should communicate your status if you are positive, supporting a loved one if they are positive and what to do if you suspect that your partner is putting themselves, and therefore you, at risk.
There are various ways that HIV can be contracted and often it is beyond the control of individuals, yet they are often stigmatised – this is the part of the disease that affects their lives more than the virus itself.
Marketing executive at Cuddlers, Murray Booth said that South Africa has come so far already, but this is another hurdle that needs to be overcome. “Conversation around HIV is a hard thing to do within South Africa. This is exactly why we wanted to be a part of this initiative – to inspire change and open the door to start talking about tough topics without judgement.”
Social auxiliary worker at Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre, Fhumulani Makhera said something has to change in the way South Africans judge HIV. “It’s our responsibility to change our judgements towards others and how we teach our children to judge others.
“The reason that the virus spreads undetected is that those who are HIV positive are so worried about how they will be perceived by others. They can’t bear to face the possibility of being rejected by loved ones.”
A registered nurse at Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre Julie Cornette who led this week’s session added that the only way to break the stigma is to begin open and honest conversations about it.
“It’s not something that is going to change overnight, but people need to realise that, although HIV is a serious virus, that doesn’t mean that someone who is HIV positive ceases to be a human being that needs love, care, and support from others.”
The truth is that HIV is manageable, Cornette added. She explained that when antiretrovirals are taken religiously and correctly, the virus can’t grow in the bloodstream, reducing the chances of transmission dramatically. However, the correct usage of condoms remains the best preventative measure. As much as many don’t like it, your priority should be your life.
The support sessions are sponsored by Cuddlers, Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre and the Fourways Review under the banner of Caxton Cares. The sessions take place bi-monthly, with next session taking place on 4 July at 10.30am at Witkoppen Health and Welfare Centre, 105 William Nicol Drive.
Details: WhatsApp Fhumulani Makhera 065 936 0559.
Related article:
https://www.citizen.co.za/fourways-review/297909/doctors-without-borders-lack-srh-services-schools-leaves-teenagers-vulnerable-risk-hiv-infections/
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