by Dr Manto Tshabalala-Msimang
27 May 2006
Dear Comrade Ruth
It was with deep sadness when Mendi and I learnt of the passing away of your
daughter Nozipho this past week. We want to join friends and family in mourning
the death of your dearest and loving daughter.
We know very well that no amount of words can ever describe the feeling you
have been going through since you discovered your daughter's condition, but
especially the feeling you are going through right now. As the Minister of
Health in this country, and as a friend and colleague in the struggle, I have
been really touched and inspired by your courage on how you dealt with your
daughter's condition. I was also honoured for your acceptance of my support
throughout the period of your daughter's care.
I cannot forget your speech in Parliament in 2001, when you shared with the
nation and tried to make it understand the feelings and heavy load that the
families of an HIV positive person carry every day. I have no doubt that the
speech you made that day was the most heaviest yet important, in your entire
life. The aspects you touched on in your speech at the time, such as the need
for a holistic programme as an answer to HIV and AIDS; counselling; access to
information; poverty-related problems; and care and support, are exactly the
issues we continue addressing. I am therefore proud to mention without any
contradiction that our Comprehensive Plan which we developed and put in place
in 2003, absolutely talk to the issues you raised in 2001. Thanks to your
contribution.
I am sure that you have been a pillar of strength to your daughter, and she
to you. There is no doubt in our minds whatsoever, that the support you gave
her throughout her entire life, especially during the period of her illness,
was critical and enough to comfort her and make her strong in fighting her
condition. Any care and support can be very instrumental in improving the life
of a person who needs it, but there can never be an instrument to measure the
mother's care and support to her children. It is in this regard that we hope
and wish that you will take comfort in the fact that because of such warmth and
motherly care and love, she really past on a happy person.
Lighting the Path to a Brighter Future is this year's theme for the 23rd
Commemoration of the Lighting of the Candle in memory of all those who died of
AIDS-related causes. When we light the candles today and in many years to come,
may we also ensure that the life of this courageous young woman is never
forgotten. I would like to dedicate this year's theme to Nozipho's life, not
only to celebrate her life but also to reinforce our resolve to intensify our
fight against HIV and AIDS.
My Comrade, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of
bereavement, and we pray that as you contemplate the future without her, the
fond memories you cherish of her will always help in the healing process for
you and the rest of the family.
Once again, our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to you.
May her soul rest in peace.
Issued by: Department of Health
27 May 2006
