testimonials
Our testimonials reflect the real stories of individuals and families who have benefited from our programs. Their journeys inspire us to continue our mission of bringing positive change.
Turning the Tide : Christianselvi's Road to self-reliance
Christianselvi, along with her two children, Shan Kalemelesan and Angeline Enesial, were diagnosed with HIV. Reflecting on her early struggles, she shares:
"Psychologically and financially, life was hell. I didn’t know if I could make it through, but AIRD’s support helped me stay confident and afloat."
Over the years, AIRD has helped with her children’s education, provided food and medicine, and financed her sheep-rearing business after her husband’s death. This venture has since flourished, and she now raises 10 sheep with steady demand for her products.
Inspired by her progress, Christianselvi recently completed an AIRD course on milk production and plans to start raising chickens. "I’ve already prepared the space in my backyard," she says proudly. After facing hard times, her life is now on a positive path.
Seeing the world anew: Iyammal’s life after eye surgery
Mrs. Iyammal is a 65-year-old woman living alone in Pappankulam village. Before the eye camp, her vision had deteriorated to the point where she could barely see people even at a short distance. Everyday tasks became a struggle, and she often felt isolated from the world around her. "I could only see shadows from people" she said.
After attending an eye camp in her village, Iyammal was referred by the AIRD for surgery at Bejan Singh Eye Hospital. She successfully underwent the operation and received post-surgery medical treatment.
Following the surgery, everything changed for Iyammal.
"It’s as if I can see the colors of life again," she expressed with joy.
Fighting stigma & finding strength: Story of Mahalakshmi
Mahalakshmi, a 46-year-old widow from Nankaneri, was diagnosed with AIDS nearly ten years ago. Initially, she struggled with fear and ignorance, both from herself and her community, leading to isolation from relatives. "At first, I was reluctant to touch people," she says, reflecting on her early lack of understanding about the disease.
With the support and education from NGOs, especially AIRD, Mahalakshmi gained clarity about her condition. "Once I understood it, I could explain it to everyone, and it stopped being a burden." Over time, her community's fear shifted to acceptance and compassion.
Unable to continue farming, Mahalakshmi has been active in the AIRD’s VDC for six months. After attending several courses, she now sells eggs locally, aiming for 300 eggs per week.
"With my new income, family problems are slowly fading, and life is becoming more bearable"
How tuition transformed Vivek’s future
In 2017, Vivek was 12 and studying in the 7th grade. He joined the tuition group in his village, Periyakulam, in October. This initiative was organized with the encouragement and support of AIRD, which advocated for the establishment of tuition programs within the VDCs. “I was struggling really hard and had difficulties understanding the lessons, especially in physics,” he explains. Vivek lives with his mother and four younger siblings. “It’s also impossible to study at home, as I have to help my mother,” he adds.
Since joining the tuition group, Vivek's grades have significantly improved, rising from 55% to 85%.
Vivek is determined to continue his studies in the tuition program and is working hard to achieve his dream:
"One day, I want to be a doctor, so I can help people"