Gob has been at the temple for a little over a week. At present she is staying at Ban Walailak, the hospice on the temple grounds for fully-blown AIDS patients.
''I've only known I've had AIDS for a few weeks. I went to have my appendix out. During the operation they took a blood sample. I was HIV positive. The doctor says I am in my final stages.
''As soon as my father found out, he put me in the car and brought me here. He hates the idea of AIDS. He couldn't even take me inside the temple. He just dropped me at the gates.
''I'm over the initial shock of having AIDS. Maybe they'll find a cure soon. I heard a rumour that herbal medicines were being used in Chiang Mai. I have to say I don't mind the community here. At least people here don't hate me for having AIDS. I'm only 26. I seem to be getting thin pretty rapidly, and for the last week I've had a cold. It's made me feel a little weak. But I cannot give up. I believe if we don't help ourselves, then who can help us? Not only that, look at all the people here who are working -- mainly volunteers -- to help me. I shouldn't give up just because of them.
''Since being here I've befriended Nick (see below). He's a nice guy, but he's gotten so weak and hopeless the last few days. He refuses to eat anything. I don't know what's wrong with him.
''I have good days and bad days. But I try not to feel sorry for myself. That doesn't get you anywhere.
''By the way, my name means ''Frog'' in English!''
[Wee] [Mai] [Gob] [Joe] [Oo-an] [Nick] [Dtee] [Gern]