WORLD AIDS DAY: Alone and Frightened, HIV/AIDS Victim Advises On Living Positively With the Disease

Uganda will join the rest of the world to commemorate the World Aids day to raise awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection on 1^st December 2022.

World Health Organization (WHO) has underlined this year’s theme to be “Equalize” in recognizing and addressing the inequalities which are holding back progress in ending AIDs, and equalize access to essential HIV services.

One Dilla Patrick, a student at Makerere University, pursuing Bachelor of Business Administration has advised that the first step to healing after contracting the disease is Acceptance, forgiveness, and self-care through his song, ‘Alone and Frightened.’

“Once I knew my status, it was not more important to point fingers at the person who had infected me. I was more into caring for my health, and that responsibility made me stronger,” he confessed.

Dilla says he is honoring one of Uganda’s icon towards the AIDs awareness campaign, Philly Bongole Lutaaya. Lutaaya was a prominent artist who in the early 1980s declared his HIV status to encourage a number of the victimized Ugandans to remain strong and forced towards achieving their dream goals.

“For me, I was no longer a victim. I am an over-comer, survivor, and fighter,” he stated.

“A number of youth or adolescents in Uganda affected or living with HIV/AIDS share a rich bond such as common values and beliefs that facilitate healing, positive meaning, and confidence in the future of their health that is not often considered in the HIV community response,” Dilla added.

He said that while adherence clubs are crucial in positive living, there is still a gap in coping methods and thinking beyond the talk about treatment, healthy life, and the possible future.

“This is especially seen in times of stress and processing the loss and grief,” he added.

In Uganda, the present- day burden of HIV remains that of women and girls, more youth across the country are bearing the weight of this inheritance, a lethal legacy that has left devastating effects on their loved ones, teachers, and role models.

Dilla advised the stigmatized that there is still hope.

  

Through interviews and open discussions, he highlighted how accepting his HIV status is powerful enough to make a difference in his life.

“Despite the challenges I do face, such as leadership conflicts that often undermine voices and lessons, I still do recite stories of hope, resilience, and opportunity,” Dilla said.

Dilla, now a self-proclaimed activist fighting against HIV stigma and discrimination emphasizes acceptance as the first step to healing, forgiveness, and self-care.