Reclaiming Life: Alain’s Inspiring Story of Living with HIV
My name is Alain. I am 61 years old, and I have been living with HIV for 20 years. I moved to Maison d’Hérelle last February after a long hospital stay following a stroke. I had lost my memory, and my mobility was considerably reduced. I could no longer live alone in an apartment.
The man who arrived at Maison d’Hérelle was distraught, stressed, and impatient. I struggled to accept the loss of autonomy that my illness had caused. I was partially paralysed on my left side, I moved slowly, and chewing and swallowing food required effort. I was very thin and bitter and found it hard to accept the help the staff offered me.
And then, just for me, the cooks prepared special pureed meals that were so nutritious and tasty, that I started to eat with appetite again. I’ve gained 15 pounds since I’ve been here. I’ve started to feel better, and my mood has improved. My three children, whom I hadn’t seen in years, paid me a surprise visit and I was able to appreciate the conversations that brought us much closer.
It is such a pleasure for me to share the contours of my life with you today. I couldn’t have imagined writing this testimonial just a few months ago. I hope my story inspires you to appreciate the simplest and most ordinary moments in your life.
Alain D.
Resident at Maison d’Hérelle