A 42-year-old woman from Kedah is sharing her harrowing yet inspiring story of resilience after being diagnosed with HIV, a consequence of her husbands infidelity nearly two decades ago.

Her ordeal began 18 years ago when she was breastfeeding her youngest child. A routine health check-up at the time brought devastating news: she had contracted the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). "The diagnosis left me utterly stunned," she recounted during a recent visit by the president of the Malaysian Cancer Survivors Society (CSM), who came to offer her financial assistance.

The woman explained that her husband, a fisherman, had been unfaithful even before the birth of their first child. Despite this, she remained unaware of his actions until she noticed unusual lumps in her private area after the birth of their second child. A subsequent clinic visit confirmed her worst fears both she and her husband had contracted HIV.

While grappling with the diagnosis, she fell into a deep depression that lasted for five years. "I was ashamed and avoided my neighbors and those around me," she said, reflecting on her initial struggle with stigma and self-acceptance.

Her second child, who was diagnosed with cancer, was spared from HIV, a fact she considers a blessing. "Neither of my children contracted the virus, and for that, I am deeply grateful," she shared.

Despite her hardships, which include additional health challenges like asthma and a brain tumor, the woman has found strength in her journey. Over time, her community came to understand her situation and extended their support.

She now uses her experience to encourage other women facing similar circumstances to seek medical help and confront their realities. "I have come to terms with my fate, but I want to advise other women diagnosed with HIV to not be afraid to face reality and continue to seek treatment at the hospital."