HIV ACTIVISTS Ntsie Robert Thoane is leading the way

By Princess Boipelo

Born nd bred in Ga-rankuwa, Pretoria, “Rob Easy” as he is commonly known grew up loving the arts and sports. He is a quite person, not shy but quite.

Ntsie Robert Thoane is a father of 5 awesome children and a loving partner. Just like a whole lot of people did Robert think he would be infected by HIV/AIDS. The unthinkable happened and he contracted the virus in October 2014 nd only went for testing in November of the same year.
The test were done at a local clinic in zone 4 clinic in Ga-rankuwa.

“Finding out that I had contracted the virus did not come as a shock but I was rather disappointed in myself”, says Thoane. “Telling my partner was the problem since she was pregnant at the time. Using protection was the only thing I could do to protect her and the unborn baby but obviously she became suspicious and I finally told her the truth”, adds Thoane.

“In 2018 my partner and I separated, things became difficult for me as I lost my job and was emotionally drowning because of what I was carrying inside me. Not being able to share with my family or friends”.

“It was only in 2018 when I was able to openly speak about my status and started doing inspirational talks around the communities. That is thanks to a lady called Kgomotso Malebye who was there for me during trying times, who supported me wholeheartedly. I owe her a great deal of gratitude”, 🙏🏾 says Thoane.

“Disclosing to my family and friends was the best medicine, they have been so supportive and without judgment, since then I never looked back. I’ve since been invited speak in few events”.

It has been a journey of different emotions and learning curves but most of all, it has been a long journey of self-acceptance and realisation. Turbulent at times but mostly blissful.

” I am living positively with HIV and plan to do so for the longest time. I honestly forget that I am HIV positive, I wish that most men would take the test so they know their status, as ealier detection will give them a fighting chance”. We only have one life so lets live it informed. “HIV lives in me bit I call the shots”. Stigma is killing our peopls because it keeps them away from necessary help.

” I always say, each one, teach one. Live and let live”.

Also Read: HIV ACTIVISTS KAGISO RAHLOGO TELLS HER STORY