Haiti
Haiti’s Celebration of Hope |
 People living with HIV/AIDS are encouraged to be healthy so they can use their talents. This woman in Haiti is a school teacher, HIV positive, at visits FH HIV/AIDS clinic in Port au Prince. She is also talented in dancing and singing |
Join FH/Haiti in supporting those suffering from HIV/AIDS while rebuilding their lives after the devastating earthquake. FH/Haiti is celebrating the talents and contributions of men and women living with HIV/AIDS. Pray for Haiti as they rebuild their lives.
Starting Life Again
Join FH/Haiti in supporting those suffering from HIV/AIDS while rebuilding their lives after the devastating earthquake. FH/In Haiti, Jure Gaston lives in Port au Prince, a city devastated by the earthquake on January 12. In addition to the hardships of rebuilding his life after the disaster, Gaston has also faced the isolation and despair that so many people do living with HIV/AIDS. Once a physically strong man working as a karate teacher, Gaston became so ill he was unable to stand. He didn’t understand what was happening to his body or how to care for himself. He mentally prepared himself to die.
Demystifying the disease
After being diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, Gaston started participating in the FH/Haiti HIV/AIDS program to receive home visits and social support. The program helps to educate those living with HIV/AIDS about proper nutrition and addresses needs, like providing vitamins and purified water, to boost the immune system. Receiving physical care is only one part of the need for people living with HIV/AIDS. In Haiti, those diagnosed with the HIV/AIDS suffer many hardships that go beyond the physical symptoms of the disease. Due to a lack of knowledge, many people fear those living with HIV/AIDS and reject them socially. They lose relationships and become isolated.
Regaining Territory
After Gaston received care and support from FH, he began to regain his life. He became physically stronger and went back to teaching karate. He also speaks out about HIV/AIDS to communities to support those living with the disease and those who fear it.
Gaston is one of many Haitians living with HIV/AIDS and living productive lives. The hope is that through education and care, adults and children diagnosed with the disease will find a future and a way to use their gifts. Gaston is now living a full life living and helping others like him to do the same.