Meet the 2024 Healthcare Provider Champions - East Asia and Pacific

Jane nominated Alex Siu Wing Chan for:

I'm a 47-year-old woman living with HIV. In my younger years, HIV was seen as a terminal illness and heavily stigmatized. When I discovered I had tested positive for HIV, I couldn't sleep for a week, consumed by anxiety and fear of developing AIDS.

Then I met Dr Chan, a social worker from the Hong Kong AIDS Foundation. From our first meeting, his friendly and warm demeanour made a difference. He patiently explained HIV-related information and encouraged me to embrace life with HIV. Through counselling sessions, I found peace. Even now, Dr Chan continues to check in on me, offering warmth and encouragement. Talking to him feels like a weight is lifted off my shoulders. I hope his warmth reaches more people, providing support, educating the public and combating discrimination.

Alex Siu Wing Chan: I am #DoingTheRightThing because…

Social workers play a crucial role in supporting people living with HIV, especially older men who have sex with men. This population often faces multiple layers of discrimination based on age, sexual orientation and HIV status. Social workers act as significant others, providing emotional support, guidance and resources to help navigate the complexities of living with HIV. Their presence is vital in combating stigma and ensuring that people feel valued and understood.

At the Hong Kong AIDS Foundation, social workers not only offer direct support to those affected by HIV, but also engage in impactful work on an international scale. The foundation actively participates in global conferences and shares best practices to strengthen the response to HIV and AIDS worldwide. This dual approach of local service and international advocacy highlights the foundation’s commitment to improving the lives of people living with HIV.

At the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, social workers’ roles extend to research, where they contribute to HIV studies that significantly impact the community. By engaging in research, these professionals help identify gaps in care, develop effective interventions, and advocate for policy changes that enhance the quality of life for those living with HIV. Their work is essential in raising public awareness about HIV, promoting understanding and reducing discrimination.

Research conducted at the university informs best practices in social work and influences public health strategies, ensuring that they are inclusive and responsive to the needs of the HIV and AIDS community. The insights gained from such research are instrumental in educating the public, fostering a more informed and compassionate society, and ultimately contributing to the global response to HIV and AIDS.

I hope my work not only influences people living with HIV, but also advocates globally and within society to address stigma and discrimination.

* To protect the identity of the nominator, a pseudonym is used.

Frank nominated Sze Nga Chan for:

I’m a 52-year-old construction worker with a wife and two daughters. In the past, I indulged in sex work. One day, I passed out on the job and ended up in the hospital, where I discovered I was living with HIV.

During my first HIV appointment at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, I met Ms Si Nga Chan, a registered nurse and my caseworker. She was friendly, gentle and patient, explaining my meds and encouraging me to reach out if I felt unwell. When I couldn’t work and my financial situation was tight, she referred my case to social workers who helped me get financial aid.

Even though I now have regular check-ups every few months, I always look forward to seeing Ms Si Nga Chan. She has supported me both medically and emotionally, showing me that HIV isn’t as scary as I once thought.

Sze Nga Chan: I am #DoingTheRightThing because…

I have been working in the Special Medical Service Department at Queen Elizabeth Hospital for 18 years. With the continuous advancement and effectiveness of AIDS medications, people living with HIV need the attention and counselling of medical staff more than ever in their long treatment journeys. Five years ago, the Integrated Treatment Centre for AIDS was established for this purpose. Through assessing people’s physical, psychological and daily needs, I provide appropriate counselling and referrals, aiming to achieve the goal of truly holistic care.

Since taking on the role of planning the treatment centre, I have felt a mix of anxiety and excitement. My relationship with my clients is highly interactive: I am both a teacher and a student. At times, I am like a mother offering earnest advice to young people. At other times, I receive heartfelt greetings from older people like a child. In this unique role, I strive to maintain mutual respect as friends and continue progressing and encouraging each other as family. I hope that families and the public will also adopt a positive attitude towards these people living long-term with HIV.

* To protect the identity of the nominator, a pseudonym is used.

Albert nominated Bonnie Wong Chun Kwan for:

I’m a fourth-year engineering student. I started getting fevers, and after several doctor visits, I realized I’d had unprotected sex. Overwhelmed by anxiety, I went to the Hong Kong AIDS Foundation for a rapid HIV test, which came back positive. I had the worst emotional breakdown, fearing that I might transmit HIV to my partner or face severe medication side effects. I worried that HIV would ruin my life.

I sought support from Dr Bonnie Wong. She listened to my worries and calmly explained that with just one pill a day, I could manage my viral load and live a normal life without side effects. She reassured me that I could still have a healthy relationship with my partner if we used protection. When my world felt like it was crashing down, Dr Wong’s kindness, sincerity and empathy were incredibly reassuring.

Bonnie Wong Chun Kwan: I am #DoingTheRightThing because…

I am an infectious diseases physician, and managing HIV is never just about following up with one’s drug adherence and reporting on the latest viral load and CD4 count to my client. I was deeply touched by the Denver Principles, which recommended that, we, as healthcare professionals, should treat people living with HIV or AIDS as whole people and address their psychosocial issues, as well as biophysical ones, and that we should get in touch with their feelings, fears, anxieties and hopes about AIDS and not simply deal with AIDS intellectually.

I believe that we are #DoingTheRightThing by keeping an open mind, being empathetic and non-judgemental, and being listeners when accompanying our clients through their journeys of seeking care and getting empowered to actively manage their own health.

I believe we are #DoingTheRightThing by sharing our knowledge and experience with our peers so that they can feel our passion and strive together towards a stigma-free world.

* To protect the identity of the nominator, a pseudonym is used.

Mr Fan nominated Grace Cy Lui for

I’m 70, a single gay man living with HIV who’s been on medication for 15 years. It's been a long road. I hate taking pills and dislike hospitals, but I hang in there to enjoy life.

The person I’m most grateful for is Dr Lui. At every visit, I feel a warmth inside. She takes the time to explain everything about my medication and its effects. She genuinely cares about my well-being and any side effects I might experience. Her support motivates me to keep going. Dr Lui is friendly and caring, and she dedicates herself to research for older people with HIV. Her work is vital, and I hope it brings groundbreaking developments to benefit many more like me.

Grace Cy Lui: I am #DoingTheRightThing because…

Ageing with HIV is a complex process, involving changes in the physiological states that have impacts on physical, mental and social health. As I myself age with my clients, I learn to listen to their needs and life goals, and learn from them what are the things they care about most. Their needs drive my clinical decisions and advice. My colleagues and I are still learning to better understand the unmet needs triggered by ageing in the setting of HIV and how the advances in promoting healthy ageing in the general population can be applied to improve quality of life for people ageing with HIV.

I am saddened when I see that many people ageing with HIV are still suffering from the intersectionality of stigma associated with HIV and that of ageing, particularly when I see that their healthcare is being compromised because of stigma. There is a lot of work yet to be done within the healthcare community and society at large to promote better understanding of the healthcare needs of people living with HIV and to stop stigma from preventing quality healthcare from being delivered to those in need.

* To protect the identity of the nominator, a pseudonym is used.

Che-yu Kuo nominated Hsin-Yen Ku for:

A few years ago, I was in a dark place, unwilling to face my illness or take medication. It was during this challenging time that I met my case manager, Hsin-Yen. Her gentle and empathetic companionship deeply moved me and became a beacon of hope in my life. She stood by me through my recovery from past psychological trauma and supported me on my journey to overcome drug dependency.

In the early years, my mental and physical illnesses often led me to thoughts of suicide and self-harm. Hsin-Yen was always there, managing my crises and helping me deal with my emotions, even outside her working hours. Her unwavering support and understanding helped me start overcoming my psychological barriers. Gradually, I began participating in group courses and getting to know others, slowly recovering from severe social anxiety.

Through Hsin-Yen’s professionalism and passion, I started to think positively again. I learnt more about HIV and substance dependency, which helped me stop discriminating against myself. I no longer saw myself as an outcast; I realized that there are people who care about me.

With Hsin-Yen’s guidance, I accessed many resources to treat my physical and mental conditions effectively. From initially taking anti-anxiety medication and having panic attacks during harm reduction meetings, I grew to participate in beach clean-up activities with other people being treated. I regained social skills and rejoined the workforce, now working in the Infectious Diseases Department at Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Hsin-Yen helped me find myself and my self-identity. Today, I live a normal life, support my family, and help others in similar positions. She redeemed my past self, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Hsin-Yen Ku: I am #DoingTheRightThing because…

Since 2014, as an HIV case manager, I have always hoped my clients would adhere to their treatment schedules. However, each client has a unique story, often filled with unresolved issues.

When my client was unwilling to face their illness or take medication, my gentle and empathetic companionship and encouragement deeply moved them. I provided support and understanding, helping them accept treatment and face psychological trauma. By reducing internal stigma and self-discrimination, they began to heal. Encouraging participation in community activities, I helped them reintegrate into society and assist their peers.

Lin Jyo-wen nominated Yu-wen Tang for:

As a new immigrant to Taiwan during the pandemic and a person living with HIV, I faced numerous challenges, the most critical being the imminent depletion of my medication. Despite policy barriers, the timely intervention of local NGOs and the national healthcare system ensured my continued access to medication. This support was crucial, but it was the exceptional care of Ms Tang Yuwen, my case manager, that truly transformed my journey.

After a traumatic sexual assault, Ms Tang provided comprehensive support, addressing both the physical and profound psychological impacts of the trauma. Amid rumours and discussions, her sensitivity to my emotional state was remarkable. She ensured that I received mental health services, emphasizing holistic recovery. While others suggested legal counsel, she prioritized my mental health, recognizing the importance of the correct referral at the right time.

Ms Tang’s compassionate actions and deep empathy provided a comforting embrace, illuminating my path to recovery. In the sanctuary she created, I found the strength for physical and mental recovery, fostering a new optimism for my future health journey. Her dedication goes beyond mere medical duties, encompassing genuine care and support, embodying the principles of the Me and My Healthcare Provider initiative.

Yu-wen Tang: I am #DoingTheRightThing because…

As an HIV case manager, I love my job and enjoy treating my clients as friends. I often learn life lessons from them. By engaging in open dialogue, we face challenges together and find solutions, much like conquering levels in a game.

Life is long, and there are many obstacles to overcome. Fighting alone is tough, but together, our chances of success are higher. I encourage my clients to walk again after falling. By extending my hand, I help them stand up and continue moving forward.

Alex Chen nominated Meng-zi Wu for:

Twenty years ago, when I had tested positive for HIV and needed kidney surgery, I faced immense challenges. The hospital's designated caregivers refused to care for someone living with HIV, leaving me feeling isolated and vulnerable. It was then that I sought help from Meng-zi, who introduced me to a caregiver and visited me like a friend. Her approach was unique; she interacted with me and other patients as if we were friends, breaking down any sense of distance or hierarchy. This created a profound sense of security and fostered a deep bond of friendship.

Meng-zi’s visits were more than just professional check-ins; they were moments of genuine connection. We shared our feelings and stories, building a rare and touching bond of mutual trust and empathy. Despite her own busy schedule, Meng-zi diligently cared for her patients while also pursuing academic progress. She was accepted into social work programmes and continued her studies, even though her health suffered from the demands of her work and education.

Meng-zi’s dedication and service have left an indelible mark on my life. Her story is one of unwavering compassion and commitment, and I hope it spreads kindness in society, reducing discrimination and stigma against those living with HIV. Her actions embody the true spirit of the Me and My Healthcare Provider Campaign, showcasing the transformative power of empathy and genuine care.

Meng-zi Wu: I am #DoingTheRightThing because…

As a healthcare provider, I believe in breaking down barriers between patients and caregivers. My approach is simple: treat every patient as a friend. Twenty years ago, when I met my nominator, I saw beyond their HIV and medical needs. I introduced them to a caregiver and visited regularly, not just as a professional, but as a companion.

I share my feelings and listen to their stories, fostering trust and empathy. Despite my busy schedule and academic pursuits, I prioritize genuine connections with my patients. This approach creates a sense of security and friendship that transcends traditional healthcare boundaries, reducing stigma and spreading kindness in our community.

Shan-Chieh Hu nominated Chia-Wen Li for:

When I first met Dr Li Chia-Wen, I was lost in a sea of guilt and fear. I had been through countless infectious disease doctors, but none made me feel truly seen or understood. Dr Li changed everything.

From our very first consultation, she treated me like a person, not just a client. Her warm smile and rainbow necklace clip instantly put me at ease. She asked, "Are you okay? Is there any issue?" with genuine care, making me feel like I was talking to a sister.

Dr Li's approach went beyond just treating HIV. She recognized my struggles with sleep and mental health, gently guiding me towards the help I needed. Thanks to her encouragement, I found the courage to visit a psychiatric clinic, a step that has transformed my life.

Her support extended to every aspect of my health. When I needed dental care, she recommended a clinic where I felt safe and respected. Dr Li's network of caring professionals has been a lifeline for me.

Through Dr Li's care, I've gone from feeling isolated and afraid to confident and healthy. She's not just my doctor; she's my champion, always there with the right skills, connections and compassion when I need help.

Chia-Wen Li: I am #DoingTheRightThing because…

My approach has always been centred on empathy and understanding. When my client first came to me, I made it a priority to create a safe and non-judgemental space. I listened attentively to their concerns, ensuring that they felt heard and valued. By wearing a rainbow necklace clip, I aimed to signal inclusivity and support.

I went beyond my role, addressing not just their physical health, but also guiding them towards mental health resources. My goal was to empower them with confidence and positivity, fostering a holistic approach to their well-being.