Isabelle: A Life of Resilience, Struggle, and Hope at Maison d’Hérelle
My name is Isabelle. I have two children and two grandchildren. It’s as a resident at Maison d’Hérelle that I am writing today. I do so to express my gratitude for this residence that has saved my life more than once.
I’ve been HIV positive since 1990, in other words, for 30 years. At the time, I had two beautiful young children. Unfortunately, I was living with an abusive partner. With considerable trepidation, I had my children tested. During the horrible wait for the results, I prayed… I was ready to bear all three cases of AIDS myself. I wanted so much for them to be spared and thank God they were! Believing that I didn’t have long to live, I entrusted my children to my relatives. I had only one goal: to protect them from the future that lay ahead for me.
I took refuge in a home for battered women. There I learned that I had cancer in both breasts. Since I had to have a bilateral ablation and undergo chemotherapy, Maison d’Hérelle was recommended to me.
As a woman living with HIV…
I rediscovered a taste for life while facing death. I was welcomed with open arms and no judgment. For the first time in my life with HIV, I didn’t have to hide to take my medication. The whole time I was there, I was fed, cared for, and supported with the deepest compassion.
I survived breast cancer and HIV. The staff’s attention and devotion contributed greatly to my recovery. At last, I felt important! The residents became my battle buddies. The comfort they gave me really brought me back to life.
Definitely better and back in the community, I wanted to give back to d’Hérelle by becoming a volunteer. Last year, I joined the new Peer Support Project: a program where former residents provide support to new ones. I was so proud that d’Hérelle offered me this unique opportunity to share our experiences!
Last October, I was suddenly overcome by anguish and anxiety. I cried out to d’Hérelle for help, and their team of professionals did everything they could to take me back under their wing as quickly as possible.
Writing this testimonial has done me a world of good. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to read it.
With all my heart,
Isabelle R.
Grandmother, resident, tenant, and peer support volunteer at Maison d’Hérelle