Of dreams and reality: Fighting AIDS in Rajasthan

[Guest guest]

Hi!

We have heard many stories and incidents related to HIV/AIDS patients and the

treatment given to them. Here is a person who after testing HIV+ decided to

fight for his rights.

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Of dreams and reality: Fighting AIDS in Rajasthan

Mamta Pradhan, OneWorld South Asia

10 May 2005

New Delhi: His wife dreamt of a hero who would sweep her off her feet and one

that she would live with happily every after. His three children saw in him a

father who would get chocolates for them everyday. He was a contented teacher

teaching children in one of the most backward Indian states – Rajasthan.

The AIDS virus was the last thing on their minds. Brothels at 24, marriage at 32

and diagnosed HIV positive at 38 with the landlord screaming atop: “Put this

person behind bars.” And Brijesh Dubey, 42, landed on the street. It took a

virus to make him what he is today.

A hero, a saviour and a man without fear. Dubey could have chosen to live a life

of a recluse, shying away from the cynic glare of the society. But he chose

otherwise. A hero, he and his family took on the virus openly in a closed

society. He braves every questioning stare with patience and defiance. Dubey

cames from a village from the north Indian desert state of Rajasthan and had set

up a primary school in a rented house. He earned his livelihood from teaching

little children till he was taken ill with severe diarrhoea and fever. When

local treatment didn’t help, he was referred to the Sawai Man Singh Medical

College and Hospital (SMS), Jaipur, Rajasthan.

His world fell apart when he was detected HIV positive. It took him a while for

the idea to sink in. “Are my children also infected with the virus?” was his

first reaction and he went into a state of depression. Physician and counselor

for HIV/AIDS patients at the SMS hospital, Dr.Dinesh Mathur, came to his rescue.

Prolonged counseling and repeated assurances instilled in him confidence to lead

a life of dignity.

Overcoming inhibitions he decided to move ahead with determination to fight for

his life - a life of dignity and of acceptance. Not every one can muster the

confidence and spirit that Dubey has shown. If not a universal figure of

aspiration, he undeniably is a role model for scores of people infected with the

AIDS virus. Dubey, now President of Rajasthan Network for People Living With

HIV/AIDS, fights for restoring the dignity of AIDS victims. He offers

counseling, provides legal support and conducts awareness campaigns. As they

say, even in a desert, the caravan moves on

Rajasthan Network for People Living with HIV/AIDS is a partner of OneWorld South

Asia.

http://southasia.oneworld.net/article/view/111068/1/