The four year old Pichaiammal was from Vadipatti, where her neighboring lady found her in inexplicable situation between death and life. Pichaiammal reached to St. Ann’s Care Home Centre, on 27th October 2010 at the age of 4. She was struggling with multiple heaths hazardous such as HIV, TB, Scabies, and Anemia. She was diagnosed by the government doctor and informed to the relatives that she is struggling with TB but she was not cared by the relatives by timely providing TB medication nor she herself is not in a position to realize the fact and take timely treatment as prescribed by the doctor. When St. Ann’s realized all these, with the help of neighboring lady, she was admitted in the hospital and was given careful treatment by the child specialist, and has taken treatment for TB under the special observation, as a result slowly but steadily she recovered. She gained her lost weight and self-confidence.

Life Style: Pichaiammal slowly but steadily adjusted with new surroundings and atmosphere by the help of child friendly counseling. She overcame her painful childhood and suffocated atmosphere at her relative’s residence. Her health status improved considerably. She was comfortable enough to mingle with other children and inmates of the center. The lovely and child friendly atmosphere of the center helped her to imbibe that St. Ann’s Home is her own home. She started learning English and Tamil. Improved her self-confidence, self-esteem, health status, achieved ability to communicate properly and became self-sufficient to take care of her own daily requirements. As days passed she started to go to school where the organization created very conducive atmosphere in consultation with school authorities and School Development and Monitoring Committee. Presently Pichaiammal is studying at vth standard and enjoying her learning atmosphere. She is a hard worker and making use of the given opportunity at the maximum of its utility.

Student became a Teacher: During the professional counseling and through the follow up and individual care plan the organization ensured she is fully capable enough to cop up with any situation. Her confidence level is such high that she never felt and anxious about that she is infected with HIV. The 10 years girl started building confidence among other people especially who are suffering from same situation.

Let us listen carefully her words: Learning that you are HIV-positive can be one of the most difficult experiences you go through in life. You may feel scared, sad or even angry – this is OK, and a completely natural part of coping with something that can be life changing. But remember, HIV doesn’t have to stop you living a long, happy and fulfilling life. With the right treatment and support, it is possible to live as long as the average person. There are a lot of misconceptions about what it means to be living with HIV. Ultimately, everyone’s lives are different – how you cope with your diagnosis and how you move forward will be unique. My message is “never give up! We are all human beings and have equal human rights. We need to fight and make people realise that WE ARE ALL EQUAL.” “Do not be scared… You can live a healthy life if you adhere to your medication – I have never fallen sick since then.”