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Teenager positive about life and friendship
Debashnie Thangevelo. 15 March 2004. Daily News. Republished courtesy of Independent Newspapers (Pty) Ltd.
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Nontobeko Zwane and Jennifer Wolf were best friends. But 18-year-old Zwane had a secret she feared would put an end to their friendship. One day she decided to speak, sat her friend down and told her: "I'm HIV-positive."
Wolf was stunned. Not because of her friend's revelation, but simply because Zwane was a picture of good health; vibrant, energetic and brimming with youthful enthusiasm.
And did the disclosure affect their friendship. Yes - it made it even stronger. Today, the two young Durban women are as close as sisters.
In spite of her life-threatening illness, young Nontobeko says she intends living her life to the fullest.
"I learned I was HIV-positive early last year. I'd been sick for some time and I went for a check-up. When they told me, I started shaking uncontrollably".
She declines to discuss the events that led to her status, saying she prefers to focus on the positive aspects of her life. Zwane told her parents the news the same day and, after the initial shock, they rallied around her immediately.
"All my family and friends know my story and I'm blessed to have such support. They've stood by me all the time. Nothing has changed in our relationships."
Ironically, Zwane is training to become an HIV/AIDS counsellor. Besides a daily dose of drugs, she also has to watch her diet.
She also has advice for her contemporaries. "I think young people should realise sex is meant to be enjoyed, but it's only a momentary thing that could mean a lifetime of suffering. If you can't abstain from sex, use a condom."
Zwane's motto: "HIV/AIDS affects us all. Keep in tune with your health by knowing your status. If you are negative, keep it that way. If you are positive, be positive with a positive attitude." |
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