Manuel Ariel P. Liwanag Names Project Quilt Philippines
Co-Author: Geminiano M. Acosta, Names Project Philippines
Nenita L. Ortega, RMT MA, Kaagapay Support Group for PLWHAs

FAMILY SUPPORT VERSUS PEER SUPPORT:
A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE OF A PERSON LIVING WITH HIV

ISSUES:

FAMILY SUPPORT vs. PEER SUPPORT

• Family support or availability of a family member to care for a positive individual is first and foremost. Living and dying with AIDS without your family is nothing like dying without dignity and identity.

ACCEPTANCE

• Being accepted as a positive individual especially by your family is a very important key factor. Once there is family acceptance, mainstreaming the community and the society is as easy as if living without HIV.

DISCLOSURE

• Immediate family members are our best friends and confidante. They are the first to know about your HIV status and likewise the first to accept about your condition.

CONCLUSION:

• Family is still the best support system for an individual like me.
• Peers are there and their support is always there but there is still nothing like living in heaven if your family is informed.