Eric Castellanos, President of C-Net+ was in San Pedro on March 6th to share HIV information with the children of the San Pedro RC School. The visit was made possible through the efforts of Mr. Felix Ayuso and the San Pedro AIDS Commission.
C-Net+; the Collaborative Network of Persons living with HIV was established in Belize over a year ago, under the umbrella of RedCa – the Regional Network of Persons Living with HIV. The presentation came after Standard Six teacher, Mr. Lozano contacted the San Pedro AIDS Commission to do a presentation for the students. President Ayuso felt that Castellanos would be the ideal person to do this, as he himself, has been living with HIV for over 15 years.
Castellano’s presentation was a very basic one similar to HIV 101. Using a slide presentation and video, Castellanos taught the children the differences between HIV and AIDS. He touched on symptoms, ways of transmission, prevention as well as sensitized the children on the importance of reducing stigma and discrimination against persons living with HIV.
During and following the presentation, the children were given the opportunity to ask questions and hold discussions on the very sensitive topic.
Made up of and run by persons living with HIV, C-Net+ was formed to work to improve the quality of life of all persons living with HIV in Belize by promoting positive health dignity and prevention, Human Rights, effective legislation, monitoring universal access and advocating for the greater and more meaningful involvement of persons with HIV in decision making processes through the establishment of a self sustained and empowerment network of persons with HIV in Belize. C-Net+ may be contacted via email to [email protected] or find them at their office at 34 Princess Margaret Drive, Belize City or telephone number 630-1900. Locally, a C-Net+ representative may be contacted through the National Aids Commission Country Coordinating Mechanism Island Committee at  telephone number 650-7021.
