My name is Marilex Vera, and I am from Venezuela, born in the city of Maracay, Aragua state. I first learned about AHF’s services in 2021 through the internet. I contacted a regional director in Colombia via email and text to explain my situation. I had not been able to come to Colombia due to the pandemic—the borders were closed. It was impossible to access treatment for several months due to the difficult healthcare and economic situation in Venezuela.
When I finally arrived in Colombia, AHF immediately connected me to a charitable institution, Fundación Eudes, where I stayed for a month. They treated me excellently—I met wonderful people and incredible human beings. The very next day, I was referred to AHF’s office on 72nd Street, where I was received by Leidy Caucaly, AHF receptionist at the Bogotá Health Center. I still remember the hug I got—it was one of the first faces I saw here at AHF, and she is still an excellent person and human being to me.
They immediately gave me viral load tests, medical exams, and started me on treatment. In just three days after arriving in Colombia, I was receiving treatment, and my life was saved. I had come with very high viral loads because of my missed treatment in Venezuela, but AHF’s care changed everything.
To this day, the services are excellent. The staff are efficient, effective, and, above all, very human. I have never felt xenophobia or rejection. For me, everyone at AHF is like family.
The psychological support, medical care, and treatment have been a crucial part of my recovery. There were moments when I fell into depression because of personal and emotional struggles. AHF was there to provide counseling, hospitalization, medications, and follow-ups. The infectious disease doctors, nurses, and staff have been incredible—people who not only treat you as a patient but also open their arms to you and ask how you are, how you’re feeling. That human touch is so important, especially for people who have just learned about their diagnosis and might have low self-esteem.
I have lived with HIV for about 20 years. It is an enemy you need to understand. When you don’t know, you can fall into fear, anguish, and anxiety, which weakens your health even more. You need to love yourself, take care of yourself, and remember that your life is valuable. Society often teaches us to carry this as a stigma, but the real threat is not getting tested or starting treatment.
Get tested. Whether the result is positive or negative, you are a valuable human being for yourself, your family, and society. You still have so much to give and so much to contribute. If it’s negative—great—but always take care of yourself because your life is worth so much.
