A diagnosis of HIV often becomes a turning point for a woman – social stereotypes and fears make you think that the future is closed. But the participants of the Kramatorsk regional office of the charitable organization “Positive Women” convince: this is not the end, but a new path, on which community and support are especially important.
The organization appeared in 2011 so that women with HIV could exercise their rights, live without fear of stigma and discrimination, receive help and feel dignity. Here they provide psychological counseling, provide access to medical services, and refer to lawyers.
The full-scale invasion was a test: part of the team had to be evacuated, resources decreased. But even in these conditions, “Positive Women” maintained stability and expanded partnerships. Thanks to the support of donors, in particular the Public Health Alliance, the organization helps women not only with basic things - baby formula or diapers, but also with legal and psychological support.
Today, the team is actively implementing the regional action plan of the Resolution "Women, Peace, Security" in cooperation with the Coalition 1325 Donetsk region. "Positive Women" focus their efforts on combating gender-based violence and human rights violations in medical institutions. To this end, the organization employs a paralegal who records cases of denial of medical care, after which the team raises these issues at the level of departments and hospitals.
The organization pays special attention to displaced women, women with drug addiction and sex workers - those who are most often denied protection. The "Svitanok" club has become a safe space for them, where they can share their experiences and receive support. And in Kramatorsk there is a barrier-free office, created together with the UN Population Fund, where women are treated by a “positive” gynecologist.
“I am most proud of our support for women at a time when they think their life is over,” says the head of the office, Viktoria Semchenko. “In fact, life is just beginning. Yes, with HIV. But also with hope, support and faith in the future.”
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