Black Women, HIV, and the Power of Belief

In the heart of Washington, DC, a group of Black women, all living with HIV, shared their stories. They've been fighting this battle for about 26 years on average.

The Double Whammy of Stigma

These women face a tough reality: they're often judged not just for having HIV, but also because of their race and gender. This double whammy of stigma makes it harder for them to stick to their treatment plans.

Faith: A Double-Edged Sword

Interestingly, many of these women find comfort and strength in their faith. Even though some churches and religious groups can be judgmental, spirituality helps them cope. It gives them a reason to keep going, to stay in care, and to find meaning in their lives despite their diagnosis.

The Stark Reality

Now, here's the kicker: only about one-third of these women have the virus under control. That's a big deal because it shows how much stigma and lack of support can impact health.

A Path Forward

The good news is, understanding how faith helps these women could lead to better care and support in the future. It's not just about medicine; it's about understanding their whole journey.