Sikka, NTT – Over 130 people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) in sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), are currently unable to access antiretroviral (ARV) drugs crucial for maintaining their health, according to data from Dr. TC Hillers Maumere Hospital. This access issue compounds teh existing fears of stigma and discrimination faced by PLWHA, as highlighted by Melati, a resident of West Alok, who worries about revealing her HIV status to her teenage children.
Melati, who contracted HIV from her second husband, a now-blind man sheS been with for over a decade, fears community discrimination will jeopardize her children’s futures. ”Until now I still feel hard to open the status. I am afraid that children will be affected by the discrimination of the community,” she stated. She is hesitant to have her children tested, prioritizing their social well-being over immediate medical knowledge of their status.
The challenges faced by PLWHA in Sikka are occurring against a backdrop of rising HIV cases across NTT, with a sharp increase reported in 19 districts and cities. Recent data from Lembata also revealed cases among very young individuals.
melati is appealing to the Sikka Regency Health Office to increase resources dedicated to HIV/AIDS socialization, aiming to foster understanding and reduce discrimination. “I hope that the Sikka Regency Health Office will prepare sufficient human resources for socialization about HIV/AIDS, so that the community understands and there is no discrimination against survivors,” she urged.
The emotional toll on families is also meaningful.AB, Melati’s sister, initially felt despair upon learning of Melati’s diagnosis, stating, “At that time I was surprised. In our minds, our sister has no life hope.” However, the family has since rallied to provide support, encouraging Melati to continue treatment and seek regular medical care.
melati emphasized the basic human desire for acceptance, pleading, “We are also human. We want to be accepted.”
