Doreen Moraa Moracha, known by her Twitter handle “Yes, I have HIV”, is a remarkable advocate who has been living with HIV since birth. Her story is one of resilience, courage, and breaking stigma surrounding the virus....TAP TO READ THE FULL CONTENT | TAP TO READ THE FULL CONTENT
Doreen’s health challenges began at the age of 8 when she became severely ill. Despite frequent hospital visits, doctors initially struggled to determine the cause of her condition.
It wasn’t until an HIV test was conducted that the truth came to light—Doreen was HIV-positive.
Her parents also underwent testing, revealing that only her mother was HIV-positive, making it clear that Doreen had contracted the virus through mother-to-child transmission. Tragically, out of all her siblings, only she and her brother tested positive. Her brother, however, later succumbed to complications related to the virus.
At the time of her diagnosis, HIV treatment was largely inaccessible due to limited drug availability and insufficient awareness about managing the virus. The advice the family received from the doctor was stark yet compassionate: “Go home and love her.” These words became a guiding principle for Doreen’s family, who provided her with unwavering support and care.
Today, Doreen is not only surviving but thriving as a bold advocate for people living with HIV. Through her social media platforms, she openly shares her journey, aiming to educate others and challenge the stigma associated with the virus. Her candidness has inspired countless individuals, particularly young people, to seek testing, adhere to treatment, and live positively.
Doreen’s advocacy is rooted in the belief that being HIV-positive is not a death sentence. With advancements in antiretroviral therapy (ART), people living with HIV can lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Her life is a testament to this, as she uses her platform to champion awareness and provide hope.
In a world where stigma still hinders many from seeking help or speaking out, Doreen’s voice is a powerful reminder of the importance of love, understanding, and education in the fight against HIV. Her journey continues to inspire millions to embrace their truth and live boldly, regardless of their status.
‘Yes, I have HIV’ – Doreen Moraa opens up on living with the virus since birth https://t.co/42Cr5RMqRg
— Citizen TV Kenya (@citizentvkenya) December 4, 2024