HAND — What is it? And why should you care? Well, it effects over 50% of our population (HIV+ peeps). It stands for HIV-Associated Neurocognitive Disorder. Sounds rather daunting doesn't it?

The stigma is real, but over time I've learned to love myself, I've started to seek out communities of people living with HIV and I've been relieved to know that I'm no longer alone.

In my home country Burundi there are 13.24 million people of which 2.9% are living with HIV. This means 383,000 people! Many of them still do not have reliable access to HIV treatment and HIV stigma and prejudices are still widespread throughout Burundi.

Whatever the individual reasons, many people's mental health suffers during the holidays. We offer this collection of resources as a holiday gift to our beloved community.

This compilation of stories is just one approach Christie's Place has made toward addressing the visibility of women living with HIV. We aim to encourage a cultural shift in harmful narratives that enable HIV-related stigma to persist.

I believe that by being open about my experience, I can help dismantle the myths and misconceptions about living with HIV. Every life has those pivotal moments, the ones that change everything.

I highly recommend attending future ANAC conferences. The experience will enrich your understanding of HIV care, connect you with like-minded professionals, and inspire you to make a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV/AIDS.

While we have made great strides towards empowering people living with HIV in places such as the Netherlands, PLWHIV with a migrant background continue to be hardly seen or heard.

This year, I had the privilege of attending my first conference of the year—and let me tell you, I needed it. I needed the reminder of why I do this work.

I come here when things are rough. When my head is so full I have to put it on paper. I can't say that I put it all here.