3. Support Groups - Mary, Zambia

“If they reduce thinking about the problems in their lives, they can concentrate on doing good things because they’re also human beings; they can do things to lead normal lives.”[English Translation]“My name is Mary Chileshe in the village of Mumena. I was elected in this village to look after people who have different diseases. We have formed a support group to support one another so we know how to care for ourselves when we are sick and so that they know how to care for their lives.Some people are failing to care for their lives because of small problems. Some have fear. Some have a short thinking mind. The support group is helping those who have problems so that they can make progress and concentrate on having a good life. If they reduce thinking about the problems in their lives, they can concentrate on doing good things because they’re also human beings; they can do things to lead normal lives. People who are positive can live as long as or even longer than those who are not sick, so long as they reduce beer drinking and smoking. Aids can kill, diarrhea can kill, and cholera can kill.I am the caregiver in this area and I’m encouraging people with HIV to live positively. As a support group, we are here for support and to make sure they are encouraged to be open, to reduce stigma. This group is very open, even to help those who are not open.”[Credits]This testimony was recorded in 2019 by Zambia Peace Corps Volunteer Adam Greenberg, Rural Aquaculture Promotion Extension Agent. Translation assistance by counterpart Ba Silver. English recording by RAP PCV Maggie Ruppel. Thanks also to CHIP PCV Sam Rudloff. Music by Adam Greenberg.Mary, thank you for sharing your story. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit hivpositivevoices.substack.com