August 23, 2011
As a young person who is fortunate enough to live in Canada, it would be easy for me to overlook the major impact AIDS has on our world. Canadians often misunderstand or misrepresent AIDS as a disease that only impacts developing countries, when in reality, youth comprise one of the most susceptible groups to new cases of infection in Canada. As a result, it is vital that we keep ourselves informed about this disease. CANFAR is an organization that gives us the tools to spread knowledge and resources through time, effort and money for advancing research.
While volunteering in Nanyuki, Kenya, myself and the other CANFAR leaders helped repair classrooms, built a toilet and bonded with the bright and talented students at the Irura Primary School as well as two orphanages in the area. We were lucky enough to be able to speak with many brave individuals who discussed their experiences with HIV. Each shared what their HIV positive status meant in their communities. Some were ostracized and shunned; few received support from their family and friends. Fortunately, however, we met many individuals with HIV who have banded together, creating self-run support groups to help ease the isolation. These groups were determined to build a safe place for those with HIV. Their passion to equality was nothing less than inspiring.
My experience as a CANFAR Leader has given me hope that with increased awareness, education and funds, the stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS will continue to decrease and this disease will be stopped.
I couldn’t have imagined how much this trip to Kenya would impact my life. The many courageous individuals we met who graciously welcomed us into their lives offered insights on life, humanity, dignity and faith. I understand that not everyone will have the opportunity to gain experiential learning in Kenya like I have; however I hope many will invest their efforts in finding a cure nonetheless. Every little act can make a difference. We can all be a part of the cure. What role will you play?
View a more in depth account of Faith’s experience as a CANFAR Leader via her Kenya blog: http://www.faithgoestokenya.blogspot.com/
There are currently no comment items