Background
HIV/AIDS patients (adults and children) tend to be a group in a vulnerable situation, health and socially-wise, that struggle to provide for themselves, and on occasions are disregarded by their families. Women whose husband died of AIDS are ill-treated by their in-law-family. Women HIV+ and their children are left aside. AIDS orphans are left to fend for themselves. Moreover, access to accurate information on their health is likely to be challenging.
The project “les amis de Sophie” (The friends of Sophie), run by the noviciate, is to provide an holistic accompaniment and support to 50 HIV/AIDS patients. It is concerned for their physical health along with their emotional and mental equilibrium.
Activities
Les amis de Sophie provides the patients with basic food packs (rice, sugar, corn, milk, moringa); the novices prepare manioc flour. It ensures school enrolment/professional training/basic teaching for the orphans and youth that cannot access school. It keeps under control the antiretroviral treatment. It In addition, Les amis de Sophie carries out awareness raising activities on HIV/AIDS to disseminate correct information on HIV/AIDS (separated workshops for adults and children, twice a month).
Results
Thanks to an increase and proper intake of food and a correct adhesion to the treatment, the patients strengthen their immune system, improve their school achievement (children/youth) and bring hope for a better future. And, with a better understanding of the conditions of the patients, it is sought that their families would share their consideration and contribute to their relatives well-being.
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