I am a Public Health Pharmacist.
I give care to about 1600 PLHIV in a rural community in Akwa Ibom State.
I won't tell you the sermon about HIV/AIDS today but I am glad to live in a society with minimal or no stigmatization against PLHIV.
I advocate testing, I discover the positive cases, I offer them safe and effective management options, and I ensure they maintain a healthy quality of life. My team and I have moved from managing their health to rehabilitation, marriage counseling, family dispute resolution, and many more.
It hasn't been an easy one, with diverse religious and traditional beliefs, poor health seeking behaviors, ignorance, unwillingness to learn, and limited HR.
However, it has been a rewarding experience. I have birthed over 100+ HIV negative children born to female PLHIV, I have over 98% of people in my care well managed and living healthy, I have settled lots of family disputes between discordant couples, my counseling is helping alot of PLHIV receive help, love and affectio from family members, I have helped people extend their death date, too numerous to count. Yet, so many have refused my help and that's still okay.
Today, I decided not to wear my regular jean trousers and sneakers( perfect dressing for my field work). It felt good and people asked me alot if I came to work or just passing😀😀😀😀😀.
Well, I decided to take this shot. I work in a rural community. I am proud of the work I do. I am building an HIV-free society, finding one positive case at a time💪💪💪💪💪.