“It was important to know I wasn’t alone”: Dmytro’s story

Dmytro (name changed) learned about his HIV status only after relocating to the Netherlands. The news came as an unexpected and distressing shock. In a new country, far from home and without familiar support systems, he found himself alone with a life-changing health issue. At first, he wasn’t ready to talk to anyone about it.

After finding HelpNow’s Service contact online, Dmytro reached out and quickly received clear, practical guidance — where to go and what documents or information he needed to have with him.

He was given the details of the nearest medical center, where he was able to get tested and undergo all necessary examinations. His knowledge of English helped him communicate confidently with the healthcare staff. Soon after, he completed the required tests and received his first ART regimen.

Alongside starting treatment, Dmytro continues his studies and is actively searching for a job, doing his best to adapt to his new life as quickly as possible. He gratefully recalls his experience with HelpNow: “I’m thankful for the support, the clear information, and for being helped not to freeze in that difficult moment. It was important to know I wasn’t alone. Thanks to you, I didn’t lose time and have already started therapy. I truly appreciate your work, compassion, and dedication.”

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The publication was prepared within the framework of the “From Heart to Heart” project in partnership with Zjednoczenie Pozytywni w Tęczy and Step by Step Fundacja, with financial support from the Elton John AIDS Foundation.

HelpNow HIV Netherlands

“I Am Not Alone”: Oksana’s Journey of Support, Acceptance, and a New Beginning

Oksana (name changed) reached out to a consultant from the HelpNow HUB Foundation as part of the From Heart to Heart project during a very difficult period in her life. She learned that her first husband had died from AIDS, which was a severe shock for her. To find out her own status, she ordered an HIV test, took it — and the result came back positive.

During this challenging time, Oksana received all the necessary information and support:
“I am sincerely grateful to your organization for the support and care. During this difficult period, you provided me not only with psychological help but also with the strength to move forward. Thank you for your warm words, understanding, and for making me feel that I am not alone.”

The consultant helped Oksana find a laboratory in Poland where she could confirm the test. After completing the tests and receiving official confirmation, she was scheduled for a doctor’s appointment. At the medical center, she quickly underwent the necessary examinations — CD4 count and viral load — and just a week after the tests, Oksana began effective therapy.

“Special thanks to you for the reliable information about treatment and testing, for explaining everything honestly, openly, and without judgment. This is very important.”
Oksana also took care of her child’s health by testing them for HIV — the consultant sent her the appropriate test kits. The result was negative.

“Thank you for referring me for tests and for accompanying me every step of the way. Thanks to you, I was able to take important steps toward acceptance and self-care. You are incredible. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

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The publication was prepared within the framework of the “From Heart to Heart” project in partnership with Zjednoczenie Pozytywni w Tęczy and Step by Step Fundacja, with financial support from the Elton John AIDS Foundation.


HIV Poland