From stigma to strength: HIV activist from Lebanon shares his story
Elie Ballan discusses learning about his HIV status and his work to inspire others living with HIV
April 27, 2023
The first doctor Elie Ballan saw after learning he was HIV positive didn’t shake his hand. He faced judgment from the few people he opened up to about his HIV status and wrestled with feelings of shame. Since then, Ballan has fought through the stigma he faced and found strength in sharing his story as an HIV activist. Ballan, who lives in Lebanon, also works at a non-governmental organization (NGO) dedicated to supporting the community.
More than 38 million people globally were living with HIV in 2021. Ballan’s story is one of the many stories that inspire us to continue pushing the boundaries of science and help build a better future for all those affected by HIV.
Watch Ballan share his story in the video above.
Learn more about our commitment to HIV treatments and prevention through the years.
