Radio presenter Criselda Kananda reflects on living life with HIV! As the world observes World AIDS Day on December 1, celebrated social activist and former radio personality Criselda Kananda shared a heartfelt and deeply personal message reflecting on her decades-long journey living with HIV.
Criselda, who has been open about her diagnosis and advocacy work, used the moment to offer gratitude, share her struggles, and inspire hope for those living with HIV.
A Journey of Survival and Gratitude
Decades ago, Criselda was told she would not live more than two years after her diagnosis. Today, she stands as a testament to resilience, reflecting on her survival with immense gratitude.
I look back in complete gratitude for what the Lord has done in my life,” she shared.
She also took a moment to honor the lives lost to HIV/AIDS, especially those who passed away believing the virus was an automatic death sentence.
“Today, I mourn the deaths of millions of people who passed believing that being diagnosed with HIV infection is a death sentence,” she said. Criselda highlighted the pain faced by those who were failed by unfaithful partners or excluded from proper healthcare and holistic treatments.
Challenges on the Path to Wellness
In her candid message, Criselda delved into the physical and emotional toll of living with HIV. She described how heartbreak and betrayal weakened her immune system, eventually leading to hospitalizations, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a prolonged health struggle after exposure to post-COVID complications.
Years after her diagnosis, Criselda made the decision to start antiretroviral therapy (ARVs). While ARVs are life-saving for many, she openly discussed how they brought challenges of their own.
“It’s been three years that tested all my theories about HIV medication,” she admitted. She shared that her ARV regimen led to the onset of diabetes, a secondary health challenge she continues to manage.
Despite the ups and downs, Criselda expressed gratitude for her life, family, friends, and career progression, saying, “I am still here, strong and closest to healthy. Grateful for life, family, and genuine friends.”
Advocating for Education and Awareness
Criselda used her platform to call for renewed public education about HIV, particularly distinguishing between HIV and AIDS, terms she feels are often conflated.
“HIV is not AIDS,” she emphasized. Drawing an analogy, she stated, “We don’t say hypertension or stroke. HIV is a germ that weakens the body, and AIDS is any illness that takes advantage of the weak body and makes it sick.”
She went on to explain that many AIDS-related illnesses, such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, and certain cancers, can be treated or even cured. She also acknowledged that while some conditions, like diabetes and herpes, are incurable, they are manageable with proper care.
The Reality of ARVs
Criselda addressed misconceptions about ARVs, asserting that while they play a vital role in managing HIV, they are not a complete solution.
“The biggest lie continues to be that ARVs alone make living with HIV easier,” she said. Criselda expressed gratitude for starting her ARV treatment during a time when advancements in medicine had made the drugs less harmful.
She praised scientists for their ethical progress in developing treatments that prioritize the health and safety of those living with the virus.
Criselda Kananda
Choosing Self-Love and Empowerment
Throughout her journey, Criselda has remained an advocate for self-love and empowerment. She described how she makes a daily choice to love herself, show up as her best self, and demand respect from others.
“Though not easy, every day I choose to love myself unconditionally,” she said. “I honor myself and all my achievements.”
A Message of Hope
As World AIDS Day encourages global reflection and action, Criselda’s story offers hope and resilience to millions. She continues to inspire by using her voice to educate, advocate, and remind the world that living with HIV is not the end—it’s a journey of courage, empowerment, and transformation.
Criselda Kananda
Criselda concluded her message by urging the public to invest in factual information about HIV and approach the topic with compassion and understanding. For her, the fight against stigma and misinformation is just as important as the medical battle against the virus.