Tanga AIDS working group, Tanga, Tanzania.
"An estimated 2 million men, women and children live with HIV/AIDS in Tanzania. Today we're visiting the Tanga AIDS Working Group, set up by a group medical practitioners for treating people with HIV and reducing the spread of AIDS.
As we arrive at the clinic, I see a woman completely covered in a black gown so as to disguise herself as she makes her way to the clinic. It's explained to us that this is common scene and that AIDS still carries with it a huge social stigma, which alienates victims from their communities. We arrive inside and are introduced to the doctors who run the clinic. We're shown around the complex, and are introduced to some of the patients who are being treated here. Reality now hits home for the first time on this trip. The colourful clothes worn by the patients acts as a not very convincing cover for the sadness in everyone's eyes. Feeling totally inadequate, and embarrassed for our invasion, all I can do is nod and smile apologetically to everyone, and try and make our presence there as short as possible."
exerpt from Brian's Diary.
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