At 65 years old, Daw Yi Yi Thant, a peer HIV Union supporter in Mandalay, has been on antiretroviral therapy (ART) since 2004. When the powerful earthquake struck, she faced the terrifying ordeal head-on. Residing on the fourth floor of an apartment building, she vividly remembers the violent tremors that made it impossible to remain upright.
In light of political instability and ongoing conflict, Daw Yi Yi Thant had long maintained a carefully packed emergency bag containing her ART, medical records and other essential documents. Thanks to this foresight, she was able to swiftly grab the bag when the earthquake hit.
Her first and overwhelming fear was the safety of the building. “I feel fear of my collapsing apartment and our safety," she recalled. As she ran out of the shaking building, she saw that the first floor had already collapsed, making the whole building unsafe. Her home could no longer be lived in. After fleeing to safety, she first stayed in an open area by the road. Later, she moved to a temporary shelter provided by community-based organisations.
Even with all the trouble and worry, Daw Yi Yi Thant stayed focused on her health. Because she had prepared an emergency bag, she was able to keep taking her ART without any break.
During this difficult time, Daw Yi Yi Thant found some support from different places. “I received a small amount of money and some help from the community and other charities. The local authorities also gave us a tent to use as a shelter,” she said.
Even though the help was small, it was very important for her immediate needs. Thinking about others in the same situation, she says that emotional support, financial help, being part of a network, and having steady access to ART are all very important. She believes that feeling included is just as important as getting material support.
Despite the trauma and challenges, Daw Yi Yi Thant has stayed strong. Her faith, along with the help of her family and community, has helped her cope. Living with HIV has shaped how she sees life — she now feels that being able to manage her health has given her the strength to support others too. Her short-term plan is to rent a small house with the help of her family while she waits for her apartment to be rebuilt.
Daw Yi Yi Thant stresses the importance of keeping clear and accurate records. Besides physical support, she believes strong emotional and community support is needed so that no one is left alone.