JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE
Overcoming Stigma and Building Hope in the Face of HIV/AIDS
Amid the HIV epidemic, Liberia continues to grapple with HIV/AIDS phobia, persistent stigma, and discrimination faced by individuals living with the virus. Many individuals who are infected often struggle with denial, leading to psychological trauma and a host of related health complications such as depression, stress, high blood pressure, and trauma among others, which can further compromise their immune systems.
One such individual is an HIV-positive woman routing this challenging landscape is Sandra Christopher a mother of four children—two boys and two girls. Sandra’s life took a positive turn when she became a member of the LIWEN support group, a vital support network for individuals living with HIV/AIDS. This initiative operates under the Just and Equal Communities Project, generously funded by SIDA through the Embassy of Sweden.
"Since joining the support group in early February 2024, my life has transformed, and I am now a contented mother," shared Sandra, noting that none of her children has contracted the virus, and they are fully aware of her status. Embraced by her supportive family, Sandra has chosen to keep her HIV status confidential to shield herself from discrimination and stigma.
Through her involvement with the LIWEN support group, Sandra has accessed invaluable resources and opportunities for personal growth. She has participated in training sessions that have enhanced her understanding of medication adherence, enabling her to manage her treatment effectively. Additionally, Sandra improved her skills in soap making and tie-dye through specialized workshops, leveraging her expertise to create and sell soap within her community. The proceeds from her soap business contribute to her children's education expenses, highlighting her aspirations for continued growth and success in her entrepreneurial endeavors.
Sandra encounters challenges during the rainy season as her sales decline due to adverse weather conditions, affecting her income and, consequently, her ability to afford food and maintain her medication schedule. She advocates for enhanced transportation support from ActionAid and LIWEN to facilitate greater mobility among peers, enabling them to reach out to individuals in denial and in need of support, ensuring access to essential services.
Sandra’s journey toward a world free of HIV/AIDS began with a pivotal meeting with the President of LIWEN and the Home of Dignity Health Care Center, where she receives treatment. Embracing the assistance offered, Sandra is committed to overcoming obstacles and contributing to the collective effort to combat HIV/AIDS in Liberia. ActionAid is helping individuals like Sandra build resilient futures and contribute to the fight against HIV/AIDS in Liberia.