NGO launches campaign to raise funds for women, girls living with HIV

The AAA challenge will see two marathon runners taking part in the four-day Ultra Asia Race in Vietnam from March 25.

KUALA LUMPUR: An NGO, which works for the welfare and medical treatment of Malaysians living with HIV, has launched a “MyLady Assistance Scheme”, an initiative to economically empower women and girls suffering from the disease.

The Malaysian AIDS Foundation (MAF) said the scheme focused on equipping women with knowledge and skills to start small-scale businesses and also referred them for suitable jobs with peer support programmes.

To raise funds for the scheme, the MAF has launched the AAA challenge, which will see two marathon runners taking part in the four-day Ultra Asia Race in Vietnam from March 25.

One of them is Hedzrin Hedzir, 50, a homemaker, grandmother and activist, who said the hardship and difficulties faced by many single mothers living with HIV inspired her to be a part of the campaign.

“With the opportunity given to me by MAF, I hope to reach out to as many women living with HIV as I can.

“I want to inspire them to succeed in life despite the pressure and depression they face as a result of stigma from the community around them.

“I want to tell them that nothing is impossible and you are never too old to chase your dreams. With courage, determination and confidence, we can succeed in whatever goal we set out to achieve, God willing,” she said.

Jeff Lau, a veteran marathon runner and MAF youth ambassador, will accompany Hedzrina. He has previously taken part in numerous extreme foot races abroad to raise funds for those living with HIV.

“My work with MAF has led me to some of the most inspiring people I have ever met.

“Their courage and determination to live their lives with dignity despite being negatively affected by HIV – and in some of the harshest conditions imaginable – was what inspired me to push my limits even further and take up the challenge,” he said.

The MAF has also invited those who are interested to take part and contribute to the campaign.

It said the proceeds from the fundraising campaign would be used to expand treatment, care and support services for underprivileged women living with HIV. - FMT