So today I got to go to a VCT (Voluntary Counseling and Testing) facility with Mama Mary; one of the HBC (Home Based Care) workers in the community and one of her clients. She had convinced the client to get tested for HIV and invited me along to see the hospital and the process. It was an interesting experience to say the least.
We entered the VCT area and there were maybe 60 people waiting. I was surprised because I thought they were all there to get tested but today is the day that people get their drugs. After Mama Mary talked to someone she knew; the three of us were directed into a room and we just sat there for a while.
I could tell that Mama Mary's client was a bit nervous but she didn't speak any english. And as much as I wanted to tell her that everything would be ok; I couldn't. Both due to the fact that I don't speak Luo and I really didn't know if everything would be ok.
Steve, a friend of Mama Mary's came in and told me about the process and what would happen next. The client then went to the lab took her test and since it was positive, went to counseling. She was very calm about the entire process. She didn't cry, didn't seem angry or ANYTHING for that matter.
I asked Mama Mary to ask her how she was feeling and she said she was happy now that she knew her status. It seemed like a strange answer to me. Though I don't know how I would feel if I were told the news. I'm sure I would have probably cried for a very long time. But I suppose much of her knew she was HIV positive. Her husband had died about a year ago and though many in the Luo community deny the existence of HIV/AIDS (they say people die because they have been cursed) I think she already knew. But now she can begin her treatement and hopefully live a long life for her 2 children which was her main concern.
It was an interesting day... I have no idea how to feel about it really. But it was a good experience for me to have I suppose...
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3 comments:
I love you Maya! You are one of the most courageous people I know. Please keep posting.
Thinking of you often,
J
maya...you're amazing. japan has been interesting to adapt to, but your situation puts so many things in perspective for me. i respect you so much for doing what you're doing. even if you decide you need to leave early, you still tried. i will try to send you some goodies soon. they will be from japan, although they do have similar things as in the u.s. any specific requests?
Hey Guys. I miss you too!! Things here are going pretty well. I'm currently in the "long haul" mentality at the moment but that could change at any second.
As for special requests...from japan...I don't think I have any. Since I've never been there; I'm sure I'll find anything you send me cool. Any special requests from Kenya?
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