In addition to the physical care and emotional/mental care provided
at Ban Pak, another important element of their program which
emphasizes comprehensive care for PLWHA is their outreach to
families, the surrounding communities, and Thai society at large via
education about HIV/AIDS prevention and care and acceptance for
persons living with AIDS. The PLWHA residents view participation in
workshops to educate students, village leaders, and community members
about HIV/AIDS as a positive outlet for making meaning of their
suffering and being useful to society, doing good deeds, and thereby
affirming their value, rights, and ability to work. Education programs
also provide a means for linking Ban Pak residents to the outside society
so that they may attest that they are a part of society rather than an
ostracized, alienated group.
De La Torre Liberation.indd 146 1/23/08 12:48:14 PMBuddhism