Chhoeun Chhim is a nurse counselor with AHF Cambodia. Her story is next in our “I Am AHF” series featuring remarkable staff, clients, and partners who are doing what’s right to save lives every day.
My name is Chhoeun Chhim. I am 35 years old, married, and a mother of two children, aged 10 and 7. I live in a small village in Siem Reap Province, where I work as a nurse counselor at the HIV treatment clinic at the Provincial Hospital for AHF Cambodia.
Before joining AHF, I worked for many years in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Siem Reap Referral Hospital. During that time, I met many people from my own village who were seriously ill with HIV but struggled to accept their diagnosis.
I graduated from nursing school in 2008 and began working under a government contract as an ICU nurse. Over the years, I realized that caring for PLHIV goes beyond treating critical illness—it also requires patient education, treatment adherence, and mental health support. I took pride in being part of their journey toward better health and understanding.
Through my nursing work, I developed a strong connection with the AHF team at the ART site and came to believe deeply in AHF’s mission. HIV/AIDS is a global issue that continues to affect millions, including many in Cambodia. I wanted to be part of a team that provides full counseling, care, and treatment for those most in need.
In 2011, I officially joined AHF Cambodia as a nurse counselor, a role that has given me great happiness and pride.
One experience that remains close to my heart is helping my own aunt. She was only 30 years old, with three children, and became seriously ill after her husband passed away. She refused to tell anyone about her HIV status. I spent time counseling her with empathy and support, and today she is doing well and back to work.
However, stigma and discrimination still happen. I always remind people that HIV prevention is essential—and for those living with HIV, acceptance and access to health services are key. You are not alone.
When I first began my role as a nurse counselor, one major challenge was the limited availability of counseling services. Many clients were hesitant to seek help or disclose their status. Over time, through collaboration with the national program, local partners, and AHF Cambodia, we have implemented meaningful improvements. Clients now receive enhanced emotional and social support. As a counselor, I listen carefully to clients’ concerns, address them using available services, and counsel them on the importance of partner disclosure for testing.
I am deeply proud to be part of the AHF Cambodia team and especially to serve at the ART site in Siem Reap Province. This work allows me to use my professional skills to improve treatment adherence and enhance the quality of life for many people. On behalf of our Siem Reap team, I want to express heartfelt gratitude to the AHF Global and Asia teams for their unwavering support to our clients and communities.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family. I love going to the rice fields to plant and harvest, and I find peace in gardening with my children. They are very smart and bring so much joy to my life.
