1. Story of a Booklet 1Magid El Rabeiy, Friends of Life, Egypt

2. Anti-stigma forum, that is composed of 12 NGOs working at HIV. Tried to find an advocacy tool to reduce stigma related to HIV. The majority of forum members agreed that a booklet that narrates real stories of PLWHIV will be the most appropriate tool. Magid El Rabeiy, Friends of Life, Egypt2

3. Why this book! A tool to fight stigma and discrimination associated with living with HIV/AIDS. To show the daily sufferings of PLWHIV, and address the message of “ fight the virus, not the person living with it..! “ To show stories of success as well. To change attitudes, perceptions and involve the wider public in repairing the suffering community has caused whether intentionally or due to ignorance to those living with HIV. Magid El Rabeiy, Friends of Life, Egypt3

4. The approach of booklet. Narrative. Short story varieties Egyptian people are interested in narration approach a lot, it is the easiest way to reach both minds and hearts. The reader does not feel boring while reading it. variation is highly considered to get a whole overview. Magid El Rabeiy, Friends of Life, Egypt4

5. Booklet Panorama 10 short stories narrating real stories of PLWHIV either showing daily sufferings or stories of success. characters are widely verified according to their, ( age, culture, place, marital status, gender, stigmatizing population). Every story delivers certain message, addresses a change and expresses a wish. Magid El Rabeiy, Friends of Life, Egypt5

6. Examples of varieties According to age; while most of characters are adults there are young children too. According to culture; some of our heroes are illiterate, and few of high education. According to place; while most of characters are from urban, there are many from countryside. According to marital status; they are either widow, widower, single or married. According to gender; 4 stories are about women living with HIV. Magid El Rabeiy, Friends of Life, Egypt6

7. Examples of varieties According to stigmatizing population; It is noticed that, The majority of PLWHIV are highly stigmatized by their own family members. Others are stigmatized by Police-men and judges. The majority again are stigmatized by the paramedical staff. ( physicians and nurses). Some are stigmatized at work place. Magid El Rabeiy, Friends of Life, Egypt7

8. Leading a normal life like any other person. I need love and acceptance not shame and rejection! I therefore thank God and try to show patience. How much longer will I be forced to lie to keep myself alive?! Gone… to a place where she will hopefully find the mercy, she deserved in life. All I ask for now is to see my children; beyond that I do not care if I live or die… Magid El Rabeiy, Friends of Life, Egypt8

9. Letters form Egypt are sent by Egyptian PLHIV to the whole community …. While we are expecting one day will receive that report Magid El Rabeiy, Friends of Life, Egypt9

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