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Thailand: Candles show compassion for HIV and AIDS |
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Urgent issues
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This is the third year that World Vision Thailand has contributed to the candlelight vigils to commemorate victims and survivors of HIV and AIDS.
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By Mathira Sutiwatananati, World Vision Thailand communications
On World AIDS Day, 4 bridges in the North, Northeast, Central and South of Thailand were warmly illuminated by candlelight carried by thousands of teenagers and people affected by HIV and AIDS.
Crossing the bridges, the young people sang a song called "Kamlangjai" or "Courage", as their message of support to people living with HIV and AIDS all over the country.
This is the third year that World Vision Foundation of Thailand (WVFT) has been organising "Candle Light on the Bridge", an annual event on World AIDS Day to raise awareness and create better understanding in society.
Aoy (her real name has been concealed) was one of the two AIDS patients who came to speak with the teenagers, sharing her experience at Bangkok's "Candle Light on the Bridge".
"Many children and teenagers come and talk to me, asking me questions," she said. "It feels really good."
Four years ago Aoy had lost all desire to live. But today, she works as an HIV/AIDS consultant, helping people who are going through what she had.
"The atmosphere has definitely changed. 4 years ago when I found out that I had AIDS there were disgust, fear and discrimination. Nowadays, I'm just a normal person with an illness like diabetes. I can feel that there is a space for us."
To end the event, the HIV/AIDS Positives and the teenagers walked from the different sides of the bridge. They met its centre, each carrying a lit candle. It was a gesture of compassion and understanding, with the candlelight representing hope in the lives of the HIV/AIDS affected people.
For more on World Vision's activities in Thailand
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