Justice for Aira.A child living with HIV

Justice for Aira, a child living with HIV

In 2019, Aira-a 7-year-old girl from Samarinda, East Kalimantan experienced a drastic decline in her health condition. After a series of medical examinations, Aira was diagnosed with aplastic anemia, a rare condition where the bone marrow is unable to produce enough blood cells. To survive, Aira had to undergo regular blood transfusions from the Indonesian Red Cross at the hospital.

But in 2020, a harsh reality was revealed. During a check-up before the bone marrow sampling procedure, the test results showed that Aira was infected with HIV. Both her parents' test results were negative, so vertical transmission (from mother to child) was declared unlikely.

Based on Aira's medical history and the absence of other risk factors, there is a strong suspicion that HIV infection occurred through a blood transfusion from the Indonesian Red Cross that was not screened to a high standard, i.e. without the use of a NAT (Nucleic Acid Test) screening tool - a tool that should be a national standard as it is capable of detecting HIV and other viruses early. This case reflects serious negligence in the health care system.

Since then, Aira and her family have not only battled the disease, but also faced social stigma and psychological pressure due to her HIV status. She has to undergo lifelong antiretroviral (ARV) treatment-a heavy burden for a child her age.

But Aira is a symbol of hope and resilience. Amidst limitations and emotional distress, her family continues to fight for Aira to receive the best care and live without discrimination. Aira's story is a true portrait of injustice, but also the power of love and solidarity.

Why we need your support

We are seeking funds for legal and non-legal aid to help Aira and her family seek justice and continue to access care:

1.Legal aid (non-litigation & litigation)

2.Operational costs for advocacy efforts

3.Travel and accommodation expenses for the family if they are required to attend trials or meetings in Jakarta.

4.Press conference

5.Peaceful action for Aira

This case highlights a serious failure in public health safety protocols, which violates Syakira's basic rights as a child and patient. We believe Aira's case can set a precedent for better health governance and accountability.

How You Can Help

Your donation will help Syakira directly for

Legal representation and case development

Psycho-social support and community advocacy

Safe accommodation and transportation for Aira and her family

Awareness building to prevent similar injustices in the future

Every contribution counts. Let's stand with Aira and demand accountability because no child should contract a life-changing disease from a hospital that should have saved her life.

Together, we can seek truth, justice and healing.

#JusticeForAira #HealthRightsAreRights #StateShouldPresent

#www.idunet.org