I'm a 42-year-old Khmer woman (a refugee from Cambodia). A mom of one, an auntie of many, and an animal lover. I am a trauma survivor, constantly talking to others about the benefits of mental health and a translator for my community. I love the outdoors, a jack of all trades, hiking in my home state or boating with my husband along the East Coast.
Why Lotus wants to be part of A Girl Like Me: When searching for support groups, I found friends of all ethnicities. However, I didn't find many from my Asian community. Those that I talked to were ashamed of their status. Raised in a predominantly Buddhist family, I understand how we try to save face for our family. However, we're no longer a secret to be ashamed of. We can have healthy, long lives by taking our medication and keeping up with our health. I encourage others to talk openly about living with HIV.
