25-YO HIV Survivor, Ill-Treated as a Child, Defied Stigma To Become a Marathon Champion

In a world where HIV is still often surrounded by deep stigma and misunderstanding, Pooja Verma, a 25-year-old woman from Uttar Pradesh, has emerged as a beacon of hope and inspiration. Born with HIV, Pooja was ill-treated as a child, facing rejection and prejudice from those around her, even from her own family. But today, she stands tall as a marathon champion, proving that resilience and determination can break the strongest of barriers.

Pooja’s story is not just about survival but about triumph over adversity, showcasing the power of human spirit in the face of overwhelming challenges. Her remarkable journey has made her a role model for millions, especially in the context of HIV awareness, mental health, and the power of sports to change lives.

A Childhood of Rejection and Stigma

Pooja's early years were far from easy. Born to parents who were unaware of her HIV status until later in her childhood, Pooja faced significant challenges from the moment she was diagnosed. Her parents, initially overwhelmed by fear and misinformation about the disease, distanced themselves from her. "I was treated like an outcast in my own home," Pooja recalls. "People didn’t understand HIV, and the stigma made me feel invisible. I was often left alone, neglected, and made to feel that I didn’t belong."

As a young girl, Pooja was subjected to physical and emotional neglect. The discrimination she faced wasn’t just from strangers but also from those closest to her, which led to deep feelings of isolation. “My classmates would mock me, teachers would avoid me, and I often had to sit alone during school breaks. There was no kindness, only fear,” she says.

Despite the overwhelming obstacles, Pooja’s resilience began to shine through. She found solace in running, a hobby that would later transform into a life-changing passion.

The Turning Point: Discovering Running as a Lifeline

Running was something Pooja discovered in her early teens. At first, it was simply an escape from the mental and emotional turmoil she faced. However, over time, it evolved into a lifeline—a way for her to challenge herself and push beyond the limitations imposed by her disease and societal attitudes.

“At first, I ran alone in the empty streets of my neighborhood,” Pooja recalls. “Running made me feel free, it gave me a sense of control over my life. It allowed me to forget the stigma and concentrate on my strength, not my illness.”

Her dedication to running grew as she became more serious about the sport. Despite the physical challenges that came with living with HIV, Pooja's determination was unmatched. She trained relentlessly, often against the advice of doctors who were skeptical about her physical capacity.

“Doctors told me to take it easy, to not overexert myself. But I was determined to prove them wrong,” she says with a smile.

Overcoming Odds: Becoming a Marathon Champion

Pooja’s breakthrough came when she participated in her first marathon at the age of 19. She faced numerous physical challenges, but her determination kept her going. “I was terrified but excited at the same time. I didn’t care about the outcome; I just wanted to finish. And when I did, crossing that finish line was the most powerful feeling in the world,” she says.

Her first marathon marked the beginning of her journey toward becoming a competitive long-distance runner. Over the next few years, Pooja competed in numerous marathons, eventually earning the title of marathon champion in several national events. She has since participated in and won numerous races, not just in India, but across the globe, proving that her HIV status would not define her limits.

Today, Pooja is recognized as one of India’s top marathon runners, having shattered records and expectations. Her triumphs have sparked widespread attention, helping to challenge the stigma surrounding HIV, especially in sports.

Breaking the Stigma: Advocacy for HIV Awareness

Pooja’s success on the race track isn’t just about her athletic achievements—it’s also about her mission to raise awareness and fight the stigma surrounding HIV. She has become an advocate for HIV education, traveling across the country to share her story and educate communities about the realities of living with the virus.

“People with HIV are not defined by their diagnosis,” she says passionately. “I want to show the world that a person with HIV can live a full, successful, and happy life. We are not weak, we are not victims. We are fighters, and we deserve respect.”

Pooja works closely with several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to spread awareness, offering motivational talks and workshops that focus on HIV prevention, treatment, and the importance of breaking the stigma. She has become a symbol of hope for thousands of individuals living with HIV, showing them that their diagnosis does not dictate their future.

A Message of Strength and Resilience

Pooja Verma’s journey from rejection and neglect to becoming a marathon champion is nothing short of extraordinary. Through her passion for running and her commitment to raising awareness about HIV, she has not only defied the odds but also transformed the lives of those around her.

“I hope my story helps others realize that no matter the challenge, no matter how tough life gets, there’s always a way to fight back. You don’t have to live a life of shame or fear. You can dream, and you can achieve,” Pooja says, her eyes sparkling with determination.

Her story is a powerful reminder that the human spirit is capable of overcoming even the most difficult of circumstances. Pooja’s achievements stand as a testament to the fact that with perseverance, courage, and the will to succeed, anything is possible, regardless of the challenges we face.