three generations, one disease
Bukelwa is the mother of Siphesihle who is the mother of one-year-old Xabisa. Mother, daughter and granddaughter live together in a small dwelling – all are HIV positive.
A year ago, their home was bare – they sold all they had to pay for alcohol to keep them drunk. Violence was a frequent problem.
Initially, when they discovered they were HIV positive, Bukelwa and Siphesihle drank more and more – but then Beatrice visited. They were desperate, and Beatrice from the Masizakhe Community Project counselled them about HIV and AIDS and its implications. She also shared with them about the Christian faith.
Today, Bukelwa, Siphesihle and Xabisa are healthier than they’ve been in a long time. Since Beatrice’s visit, their lives have never been the same. Thanks to their newfound faith and hope for the future, their faces are glowing and their smiles are wide. They have started a new life, which will continue forever – into eternity.
