Health Care for 500 HIV+ Children in Zambia

The Power of Love team would like to wish you a happy holiday season and express thanks for your caring, encouragement, and support throughout the year. 2016 was an extraordinary year for families in our pediatric HIV care program. Here are some key achievements:

• Added 100 HIV+ children bringing the total number of children in our care to 350. At the time of enrollment, the new children were quite sick – many were malnourished and their immune system was weak (measured by CD4 counts). Our Nurse and community health workers created a customized health plan for each child, and worked diligently to stabilize their health. Today, most children have improved in health as measured by an increase in weight, and higher CD4 counts.
• Zero new HIV infections: In 2016, (as in the past six years) 100% of children born to HIV+ moms were HIV free even though they have HIV+ siblings.
• More than 240 family members came forward for voluntary counseling and testing for HIV. This is critical in the prevention and spread of HIV.
• All 350 families in our program are more knowledgeable about HIV prevention and care, so they can take better care of their children and other sick family members.

These outcomes have led to less discrimination, reduced stigma, and a more self-reliant and stronger community. A big thank you! We could not have achieved any of this without your support. 

Plans for 2017: We are raising funds to add 100 HIV+ children bringing the total number of children in our care to 450. All children will receive food, medicines and a package of life saving health care services that include weekly health visits, psychosocial counseling, education in prevention of HIV, and training and monitoring in adherence to ARV medication. In addition, family members will receive training in HIV care and prevention so that the child is under the care of a trained caregiver 24/7.

Our holiday treat for you: Please take a moment to enjoy this short video, that showcases two little girls learning to dance with older kids. We are sure this video will brighten your day.

Sending you a giant wave of love and best wishes for a joyful holiday season.

Links:

• About our Pediatric HIV care Program
• What makes our program unique?
• Stories of two children who are role models