Your support helps create a safe space at Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust
Talking about his daily challenges of being HIV positive, Siyanda shared how he struggled to come to terms with the loss of his parents and how he is trying, despite all odds, to stay in school even though he is often sick.
AS an AIDS orphan who lost both his parents to HIV/AIDS, 12-year-old Siyanda* described the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust’s Adherence Club as a place that meant everything to him as it’s the only space he can be himself and feel safe.
“My friends don’t know I’m HIV positive and I’m too scared to tell them,” said a shy Siyanda.
Talking about his daily challenges of being HIV positive, Siyanda shared how he struggled to come to terms with the loss of his parents and how he is trying, despite all odds, to stay in school even though he is often sick.
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“My teachers don’t understand and think I am lazy, it is difficult when you get shouted at and it’s not your fault.”
But the group has afforded him the opportunity to share and talk about his feelings and frustrations with other children who know what he is going through. This has helped Siyanda gain a better understanding of how to stay healthy and take his ARV treatment correctly.
“I feel lighter when I’m here. I can talk and laugh and be myself again. The group leaders are always kind and make you feel like you are not alone,” he smiled.
*Name changed
How to contribute
To donate to HACT’s Adherence Clubs for orphaned and vulnerable children, contact 031 765 5866, email marketing@hillaids.org.za, or make a direct deposit at:
Bank: Nedbank
Account name: Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust
Account number: 1147961433
Account Type: current
Branch Name: Hillcrest
Branch Code: 133826
Swift Code: NEDSZAJJ
If a direct deposit is made, send proof of transfer to finance@hillaids.org.za.
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