Tara’s awakening

Tara BK woke up to the fact that her own sorrow could be used to prevent others from undergoing the same experience. CWC took her to group meetings, made her participate in activities, organized games so she could laugh and forget her tragic past. Then CWC asked the group members whether they were ready to create a formal group. They nominated Tara BK for president, explaining that she would need support. All members agreed also to appoint her as office caretaker with a monthly salary of NRs. 3,000 (about $50). She has now paid back her loan for her marriage and continues to pay the loan for the medical and cremation expenses of her son.

Tara BK proudly recalls that Dipa Jyoti Organization was inaugurated on Baisakh 15 (mid-April) two years ago. Her mission in life since then is very simple: to prevent and heal people living with HIV and AIDS.

Tara BK is confident in what she can do and she is clear about the importance of the role she can play. She “shows the way” by giving information about HIV/AIDS, the disease itself, its nature, how it can be fought, what services are available, where to get the services. Tara knows that her “coming out” is one of her strongest allies against the deadliest element of the “desi rog” – the fear of the unknown, the secrecy and the stigma.

Today Tara spends her time tirelessly going to remote areas in her district, walking several hours to spread her message of hope and compassion.