Our Success Stories

Zama’s story – A Long Journey of Spirit and Love bring Zama back Home

Zama* spent a little more than 16 months staying in the Respite Unit of the Hillcrest AIDS Centre Trust, known as Othandweni, or place of love, making her overwhelmingly the longest-term patient they have ever had. When she came to Othandweni she had TB of the spine, which subsequently paralyzed her from the waist down and confined her to a wheelchair. She also battled uterine cancer and suffered from terrible and painful bedsores. Through all of this Zama was also using her grants to support her 3 children, one of whom had a stroke at age 2 and needs extra care, her 2 siblings, and her mother, most of whom were living in the same small, poorly ventilated, two bedroom house. Over the course of her stay, all but one of Zama’s bedsores healed completely, and the remaining one improved significantly since her arrival.

Many patients would, understandably, become extremely frustrated and restless during such a long period of stay, and although Zama certainly had her low points, you could almost always count on her for a smile or a warm greeting. She has an unbelievable and inspiring spirit and she formed friendships with numerous other patients who came to stay in the unit while she was there, as well as with many of the caretakers and staff. She is the definition of a fighter, and despite the various infections and diseases that coursed through her body during those months, her will and determination overcame them in the end.

Towards the end of October 2012, almost a year and a half after her arrival, Zama was finally discharged and was able to move back in with her family, where she can see her mom and her sons every day. The joy felt by Zama on that most amazing day was shared by the staff at Othandweni , “We are so thrilled for her and know that her spirit and strength will enable her to overcome any future challenges that life may throw her way.”

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 * Names have been changed to protect patient privacy.   

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There are several reasons why we should care (about HIV/AIDS in other countries) — because we are part of a global community. We know that, particularly now with economic globalization and globalization of trade, that what happens in another part of the world impacts us. There's also the responsibility for humanitarian considerations when other citizens of the world are suffering and dying in ways that can be prevented, that we as a rich nation have the moral responsibility to try to help those that are less fortunate.

Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., Director, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, CNN Interview 11/30/07

 

About The Gift of Hope

The Gift of Hope (EIN# 26-1613888) is a volunteer led organization dedicated to caring for women and children in South Africa infected with and affected by HIV. We strive to ensure that all women and children have access to quality holistic HIV care and treatment, regardless of financial ability. The Gift of Hope is a 501(c)3 organization.

The Gift of Hope

1127 High Ridge Rd. #251
Stamford, CT 06905