After the death of her parents due to HIV infection, Pratima Sunakothi—who is also HIV positive—was living with her grandmother. However, her uncle threatened the grandmother, stating that he would not allow them to stay in the house if Pratima remained there, as he feared she might transmit the disease to his children.
Her Story:
Pratima Sunakothi is originally from Sindhupalchok district. In 2009, her mother entered into an inter-caste love marriage. While her own family supported the union, her husband’s family did not accept her. The couple moved to Kathmandu, where her mother worked as a laborer and her husband took up contracting work for about two years.
When she became pregnant with Pratima, her husband left her at her parents’ home and disappeared. He was never heard from again. During her pregnancy, Pratima’s mother began suffering from chills, fever, diarrhea, and headaches. Out of concern for her pregnancy, she avoided taking any medication.
Pratima was born at Thapathali Hospital. At birth, she did not cry immediately and had to be kept in the ICU for three days. Although there were no immediate complications, her mother continued to suffer from recurring sores, particularly on her legs and feet. Medication from local pharmacies offered temporary relief, but the symptoms kept returning.
When Pratima was about a year old, a local acquaintance who worked at an HIV/AIDS center advised them to get tested. Tragically, both mother and daughter tested positive for HIV. Not long after, Pratima’s mother passed away due to the illness, and the young child was taken in by her grandmother. However, due to severe financial hardship, the grandmother could not continue to care for her. Pratima was referred to SETU Nepal at the age of four.
Current Status:
Pratima is now studying in Grade 7 at a government school, and her health has improved significantly. She is an energetic, curious, and spirited girl, often called the “class clown” at SETU Nepal for her constant efforts to make others laugh. Her cheerful personality and humor have become her signature traits. It’s truly heartwarming to witness her transformation over the past few years. We at SETU Nepal are proud of how far she has come and continue to support her journey with hope and love.
Appeal for Support:
Pratima’s journey so far has been filled with challenges, but also resilience and growth. To continue nurturing her health, education, and dreams, SETU Nepal humbly appeals for your support. With your help, we can ensure that Pratima receives the opportunities every child deserves—a stable education, nutritious meals, and a life full of possibilities.
Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a lasting impact on shaping her future. Together, let’s help Pratima continue to smile, grow, and thrive.