There are those brave souls who faced the stigma of having the disease by self-disclosing and encouraging relatives, friends and neighbors to get tested and who also witness to the fact that there is life with the disease because of medication and diet. It is known as the Lazarus effect in that the patients are carried into the clinic and after a few weeks of proper diet and medication, walk out on their own to resume their lives.

The dedication of health care workers (doctors, nurses, administrators, cooks, etc.) was very moving: giving beyond what is required of them and tending patients with care and kindness. It is amazing what a small clinic with its own examination, laboratory, pharmacy and counseling rooms can offer to people infected with HIV/AIDS. Then there is the support staff for helping those affected by HIV/AIDS (family members, relatives, friends, neighbors).

CRS is a major recipient of the President’s Emergency Program for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Zambia is one of the country programs that has extensive integrated HIV/AIDS projects. CRS is partnered with the Bishops’ Conference, all ten Dioceses, the government of Zambia and with a number of Religious Orders offering Anti-Retroviral (ART) medication, counseling, Home Based Care (HBC), feeding and educational programs for orphans and vulnerable children (OVC), clinics, hospitals, medication for TB and other opportunistic infections, livelihood and sustainability programs, and continuing education for professionals.

Although the HIV/AIDS pandemic is a very serious challenge for the people of Zambia, little did I expect to find such signs of hope in the midst of what the world considers a disaster. Zambia, its people, as well as people here in the States, are witnessing to the vision of One Human Family as we work together to live life to the full.

by Chris Promis, C.S.Sp., an AFJN Board Member who works for CRS.