Dimapur, March 17 (MExN): The Miqlat Ministry, a branch of the NBCC Women Wing, in association with the Constella Futures and Project Orchids organized a one day workshop on ‘what mothers can do in the prevention of HIV/AIDS/Drugs Abuse’ at the Dimapur Tourist Lodge here today.
Fr Joe Maridas from the Shalom Rehabilitation Centre, Dimapur, who was one of the resource persons called upon the participants of women leaders from different churches in the town to develop new attitudes, accept and strengthen family bonds when it comes to dealing with AIDS and drugs abuse.
In a great display of his oratory skills, Fr Joe Mariadas said that drug addiction is a disease and that there is nothing to hide about it. Speaking from a pragmatic point of view, the Shalom Rehab worker said that most of the people feel ashamed of their addicted sons; instead he asked them to bring their children to rehab centres and hospices for treatment, which he said is the best way to find a cure.
Summarizing his lecture, Fr Mariadas said that the mothers need to develop new attitudes about the disease of AIDS and drugs abuse, accept that they have a problem, and strengthen family bonds as a means to fight the disease of AIDS and drug abuse.
Representatives from sixteen tribes attended the one day workshop which started from the evening and continued ion till evening Miqlat Ministry adds
Even as the story about the workshop was compiled; a press release from the organizers received here gave more details about the details of the programme.
Darshim, a woman who has lived with HIV virus for over a decade, appreciated the initiative of the women leaders saying: “You are here and listening to me because you care.” She narrated her experience of how she struggled to give up drugs and the turning point in her life. She stressed the need of supporting the vulnerable population. The 34 year old Darshim is among the few women in Nagaland who have given a face to HIV/AIDS as a board member of the Network of Naga People living with HIV/AIDS (NNP+), stated a press release.
The release stated that the NBCC women wing secretary Narola said, “The issue of drugs, sex work and HIV are all interrelated and support from the society and understanding family are very crucial.” “Women mould the family and hence it is important to equip oneself with a broad understanding of issues surrounding HIV/AIDS,’’ she added.
Dr. Rose Chakhesang, Clinical Coordinator, EHA-Project ORCHID dwelt on the basic facts about HIV/AIDS, how medication like ARV can prolong and increase the quality of life considerably. “HIV is a fragile virus and transmission can be prevented by avoiding high risks behaviors,” he said. He also revealed how transmission from Mother to child can be checked with proper medical advice.
The release stated that Johnny, State Co-ordinator, Constella Futures Group spoke on the ripple effects of drugs on families and communities all over Nagaland. “Naga mothers have shed tears in silence,” he said and urged for a holistic approach while dealing with HIV/AIDS.
Neidonuo Angami, Chairperson of the NMA HIV/AIDS Care Hospice said long years of denial since the issue of substance abuse made individuals and society guilty and fearful.
He urged them to face the truth and accept realities which will lead to a change in attitudes. “The gathering of women from so many churches is a testimony that Nagas are willing to learn and contribute to the change,’’ added the release.
