“I tested HIV positive in 2001. After testing, my mother started abusing me, and said that I should leave home. I had courage, and I had friends that encouraged me to take medicine, but I was afraid. When I started taking medication, I thought I would die. I had five children, and I have managed to bring them up as a single parent. I bought land for my children. I joined Kwapa Post Test Club (PTC) and also joined a savings program whereby they could lend me money and pay back with interest. In the PTC, we draw and share pictures which help us remove thoughts that we are living corpses.

My appeal to Artfully AWARE is that you continue to help and encourage us in the various activities that we take part in. Our painting and coloring is now beginning to earn us a living, and we are pleased that AfA is giving us vigor. We shall continue living positively.”

Irene Akiring. Tororo, Uganda