Lovemore and Fungai are not like most couples. When these single parents got engaged, getting tested for HIV was at the top of their wedding plans.
“Lovemore and I are starting a new life together,” says Fungai. “We should know each other’s HIV status, especially since we’ve been married before. He’s been very supportive of the idea.”
During their visit to a PSI health clinic, counselors first gave the couple information about HIV, discussed ways to prevent the illness, and explained the testing process. Just last year, we conducted over 2.5 million of these voluntary HIV testing and counseling sessions worldwide.
Of course, in the back of their minds, Lovemore and Fungai silently prayed they didn’t have the disease. And although Fungai tested HIV negative, Lovemore was diagnosed with HIV.
They were immediately devastated. But the counselor comforted them explaining “HIV is not a death sentence,” recalls Fungai.
“Today there is treatment available that makes living with HIV like living with a chronic disease,” she says. The couple learned how to reduce Fungai’s risk of getting HIV and the counselor connected Lovemore to a clinic where he now receives treatment.
Lovemore and Fungai also attend counseling and meet with other individuals and couples who are navigating their future with HIV as part of their relationships. They’re confident that by taking the right steps, they can lead a full life together.
“Now I know how to live positively and protect Fungai from HIV,” Lovemore says as he smiles at his new wife and tenderly takes her hand in his.
Watch a video about Lovemore and Fungai’s story:
