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I was diagnosed with HIV and TB a year ago. With a fast deteriorating condition, I resorted to using herbal drugs. However, my condition worsened, and I ended up on admission in a private hospital. The Doctor at this hospital, directed me to IHCC. Initially skeptical about going, it took some time before I made the first visit. I was very surprised by the way I was warmly received and taken through counseling that took away my doubts and fears about living with HIV. Through the encouragement and continuous support of the IHCC staff especially the model of Hope, I completed my tuberculosis treatment and was put on ARVs. Today I am healthy, I have gained my weight back and most of all I am happy and see a great future ahead of me. Thanks to IHCC
Mrs. J.O.B49 years
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I struggled to accept my HIV status when I was diagnosed five years ago and therefore resorted to prayer camps and the use of herbal drugs, some of which were very expensive, costing as much as GHS2000.00. Without any improvement however, my sister-in-law who knew about my status directed me to IHCC. Initially I did not want to go for fear of being scolded or shouted at, things that we commonly hear about. When I could no longer stay away from care, I made a visit to IHCC, where I was welcomed and counselled about my condition. I was given so much hope once told that If I took my medication, I could get better. It has been 7months now, and I am doing very well. I do not fall sick frequently as I used to before and I am very happy with myself and everything else. The services were also very affordable compared to other places. I am grateful to IHCC.
Madame S.A.I31 years
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I had found out about my HIV status when my husband fell very ill. Very confused about what had overcome me, I went into complete denial. I knew however that I would have to seek treatment one day however, I continued to push this away out of fear and shame. When I started to notice my cloths getting bigger for me, I knew if I did not do something, I would be in for big trouble. I went online just trying my luck, not in the least thinking I would stumble upon the West Africa AIDS Foundation site. Once I did and noticed that they had an affiliated clinic, I immediately called. The way I was talked to on the phone motivated me to visit them on my appointment day. I could not have wished for anything better. The way I was handled, it just felt like I had seroconverted to being HIV negative. I was so happy I found this place. I have been receiving care from them ever since and what I love most is how they ensure they meet my needs no matter what. They are realty the best thing that happened to me.
Madam A.O55 years
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Akua, a two-year-old resident at the shelter home after undergoing assessment at the hospital due to her inability to walk or talk was asked to undergo weekly speech and physiotherapy simultaneously. Since June 2022, she has had sessions with support from the Global Fund on the CSS Project managed by CHAG and implemented by WAAF. Akua can now stand on her feet and crawl unaided, can sit upright and get off her seat and bed unaided. Akua can move her legs with support as compared to previous months when she was unable to lift her legs. She can now even make sounds since she began her therapy. This tremendous improvement is a sign of hope for her teenage mother and The Ark Foundation.
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My name is Kwame, a 29-year-old vulnerable man in Accra. I had been in regular communication with a peer educator for several months. Through a series of educational sessions on HIV and other STIs, I finally mustered the courage to get tested. It was a challenging decision for me as I was aware of the risks I had taken. I had engaged in risky behaviors and had multiple sexual partners, so I was afraid to do the self-test. When the results came out, it showed a positive result. Fortunately, I had already received counseling from the peer educator about the possibility of such an outcome. Without hesitation, I sought confirmation and began my antiretroviral therapy (ART). Today, I am proud to say that I have achieved viral suppression, and I am living my life to the fullest, all thanks to the USAID EpiC Project managed by FHI 360 and implemented by WAAF.
Kwame29 Year Old
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I am a sex worker who recognized the importance of protecting myself against HIV and other STIs. Last year, I started taking PrEP as an extra precaution for my sexual health well-being. Alongside my PrEP journey, I had a compassionate and knowledgeable counselor who became an essential part of my support system. We would meet monthly to discuss my experiences, address concerns, and ensure consistent medication use. Her guidance helped me understand adherence, safer sexual practices, and regular testing for other infections. With her support, I developed a diligent routine and gained control over my sexual health. As a result, I felt empowered, made informed decisions, and engaged in my sex work without fear or anxiety. The continuous support from my counselor has been invaluable, contributing to my successful journey with PrEP. Today, I live a life free from constant HIV and STI worries, thanks to PrEP and my amazing counselor- FSW Client of WIYO (a sub recipient of WAAF under the EpiC project.
