Life goes on: Olena’s story of finding therapy in Germany

Olena (name changed) arrived in Germany in the spring together with her daughter. In Ukraine, she already knew about her HIV status, was registered for care, and was taking ART as well as substitution therapy. But after moving to one of the largest cities in Bavaria, everything stopped: a different country, new rules, another language.

When her supply of Ukrainian therapy was running out, she turned to the HelpNow service for assistance. They explained to her how to access therapy in her new city of residence — where to go, what documents to show, what to say to the doctors. After receiving a referral to a specialized center, she felt nervous during the visit, but the medical staff treated her with understanding and tolerance.

Olena underwent an examination and now regularly takes her therapy. “Thank you for not leaving me alone with my needs,” says Olena. “Even from afar, your help is extremely important for people.”

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

Germany HIV OST

A new beginning: Serhii’s story in Spain

“My life hasn’t been easy. For a long time, I struggled with addiction, and substitution therapy became what helped me not to lose myself,” says Serhii (name changed).

In Ukraine, he was registered and receiving treatment, but when he moved to Spain, he found himself in a new country without acquaintances or support. “It was hard to understand where to turn. I didn’t know how to continue therapy or where to find the right specialists. And all this while looking for a job, housing… everything at once.” That’s when he heard about the HelpNow service. “I got the contact of a clinic that was able to continue my treatment and explained how the system works.” Serhii notes that the staff’s attitude towards him was friendly and understanding—that he was in a difficult situation, a foreigner needing help. No judgment, only attention. He points out that now he has a schedule and an understanding of what tomorrow will bring. And that is extremely important.

“For me, the main thing is to keep control over myself and keep moving forward,” Serhii shares. “And substitution therapy is my chance to live without fear. I am very grateful for the support I received on this journey!”

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

HelpNow OST Spain