I got to know MES through their outreach programme. I was a patient at the home based care

clinic of the Methodist Church in town for two months. One of the nurses suggested that I would be better off if I am transferred to the hospice unit at MES Impilo. That was during 2010.

That is how my life changing journey began at MES Impilo. I left Zimbabwe in February 2009 with my pregnant wife in search of a better life and better medical facilities. We had planned this move since we found out that we both were HIV positive.

Back at home it was not affordable to have a baby there and also we feared stigmatisation – we thought it would be easier if we left everyone behind us and start a new life where no-one knew us. We left as soon as I told my sister about our HIV status. We left behind a luxury life offered by my parents. My wife and I both thought it is going to be an easy road.

My wife gave birth to a healthy baby girl. Unfortunately she could not remain in South Africa due to a difficult family situation and she returned back to Zimbabwe. I remained in South Africa and managed to secure a job. Late November ’09 my health started to deteriorate. I did not use anti-retroviral medication – I was still in a state of denial regarding HIV/AIDS. I abused alcohol and was in a continued state of intoxication. I got close to become an alcoholic; it affected my health and job situation. This was a recipe for disaster.

Coming to MES Impilo has been a blessing in disguise because apart from the assistance they give you in acquiring your medication, the nursing staff is in a league of their own. If you have an appointment with a doctor at the hospital, they will gladly escort you to the hospital and patiently wait with you in the long queues keeping you company and assist you where you need help. It is not everyday that you meet people with such tolerance and what I would call “Motherly Love”. Through various activities at the Hospice I have discovered a whole new understanding of Life. The church services are very helpful and I experienced spiritual growth too. The social worker is very helpful.

I was afraid that as a foreigner I would be discriminated against but to my surprise I was welcomed with open arms. The Matron and all the nurses are very supportive. They helped me directly and indirectly to a speedy recovery. As I attended the support groups I started to understand and accept my HIV Status. I realised that it is not the end of the world and that I am able to life a responsible life. I have learnt that although the virus is in my blood it will be suppressed if I faithfully drink my medication. The virus will not affect my well being. This is the greatest lesson I have learnt during my stay at the Care Centre. I would definitely recommend MES Impilo to other people because I myself am a true testimony of their great service. I arrived at the centre infected with HIV. I received tender love and care which assisted together with the medication, in my being well today.