A Life-Changing Diagnosis

Leasuwanna Griffith shares a remarkable story of transformation after being diagnosed with HIV during her pregnancy in 2003. Far from being a sentence to despair, she describes her diagnosis as a catalyst for personal growth and awareness.

"Getting HIV calmed me down. It made me more aware of other people and their feelings. It humbled me in a good way," reflects Griffith, who hails from East London.

Facing Unique Challenges

Despite her hopeful perspective, Griffith faced significant hurdles in the early days post-diagnosis, particularly as a black woman with limited available support. "The support options were primarily catered to gay men or African communities, leaving Caribbean women like me in the shadows," she recalls. This lack of cultural representation made her journey even more daunting.

Initially given an 'expiry date' on her life, she adopted a mindset that living each day to the fullest was crucial—though that outlook took its toll, especially as a mother.

A Mission to Empower Others

Today, Griffith empowers others through her work with the Phoenix Health Movement, a charity dedicated to supporting black women living with HIV. Co-founder Susan Cole emphasizes the urgent need for testing services to find their way into women-friendly spaces like nail salons, cafes, and local libraries.

"We need to ensure testing is available where women naturally go," Cole insists, voicing concern about the inadequacy of current HIV awareness campaigns.

Alarming Statistics

Recent statistics reveal a troubling trend: the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported a 17% increase in new HIV diagnoses in London from 2021 to 2022, with black Africans accounting for 20% of these cases. Specifically, there’s been a noticeable rise in diagnoses among black women.

Cole points out that current services are often not tailored for this demographic, and many women feel uncomfortable seeking help at traditional sexual health clinics. Barriers such as stigma and discrimination further complicate the issue.

Addressing the Stigma

Marc Thompson, lead commissioner for the London HIV Prevention Programme, warns that the battle against HIV is far from over. "A quarter of all new diagnoses last year were in women, and we’re seeing more late diagnoses among older adults," he states. To combat this, he stresses the importance of dismantling stigma and improving access to preventive resources.

Community Outreach Initiatives

An initiative by the charity Spectra highlights the importance of community-based outreach. Chief executive Joel Robinson emphasizes bringing HIV services directly into neighborhoods to build trust. "By meeting people in libraries, cafes, and barber shops, we create a safe environment for discussions and screenings," he notes.

Robinson also highlights the rising rates of HIV among various groups, including heterosexuals and older individuals. Their outreach work extends to asylum seekers and refugees who may struggle to find help due to language barriers.

A Call to Action

Griffith's story and the ongoing efforts of organizations like Phoenix Health Movement and Spectra reflect a crucial message: HIV awareness and prevention must evolve to include all communities. As the landscape shifts, it’s vital that everyone—regardless of demographics—has access to education and services that empower them to live healthier lives.