HIV MYTHS AND MISCONCEPTIONS

​Meet 13-year-old Mary, who was found by our on-post staff who work at John Laing compound. Mary talks about HIV myths and how they impact treatment.

"Growing up in John Laing, a neighborhood in Lusaka, Zambia, my family believed that any adversity we faced was the result of dark forces trying to harm us. When I fell ill at the age of eight, my grandmother and mother immediately assumed that I had been bewitched. They tried all sorts of herbal remedies, powders, and concoctions to counteract the supposed spell. Despite their efforts, my condition did not improve.

One day, a woman from TTF visited me and asked to test me for HIV. Reluctantly, my mother agreed, and I was diagnosed as positive. My grandmother, however, insisted that my illness was the work of witches and refused to let me take modern medication. It was only after my mother defied her and brought me to the clinic that I was able to receive the ARV medication that helped me recover.

Although my grandmother's belief in traditional medicine caused conflict between her and my mother, I'm grateful that I received the treatment I needed. I remember feeling immense pain all over my body and having difficulty breathing and eating. But with time, my condition improved, and I was able to run around again.
​
Today, I take my medication regularly and live a healthy life. I share my story because I want to encourage parents to get their children tested for HIV and to seek medical help if necessary. Thanks to the community health workers who tested and educated me, I'm alive today. Let's all work together to fight HIV and help those who may be struggling with it."