Atogyine Tracy Atia's parents both died of AIDS while she was a child. She lived with her grandmother but suffered such stigmatisation for being associated with HIV/AIDS that she was forced to leave her community. Atogyine's grandmother also passed away leaving Atogyine alone to fend for herself.

  I had to sell ice water in Bolga Street, in places such as lorry parks and market centres because there was nobody to take care of me. I had to take care of my feeding, washing, clothing, buying of books, pens, pencils, drugs, to cater for my education and health care. I earned 70 pesewa a day (about UK 30 pence).

When Atogyine was 10 years old Youth Alive became involved.

Fortunately, I was introduced to Youth Alive through one teacher. Youth Alive took over my educational responsibility and social needs. I was introduced to the school authorities and placed in the same primary. Youth Alive supported me with various basic school items such as books, uniforms, pens, pencils and sandals. They also pay my school fees, special levies and printing fees too.  At times when I'm sick or not well, I usually go to Youth Alive for medical treatment. If they can't help, they refer me to regional hospital for further medical examination and treatment as well.

I am now in Akantome Junior High School, 3rd year. I am preparing to sit for Basic Certificate Examination of Education (BECE). I am sure to make it and read general ARTS in the senior high school to fulfill my dream of becoming a renowned journalist, so that I can advocate on behalf of the rights of street and vulnerable children.

If it hadn't been for Youth Alive, I do not know were I would be by now. I wish to say a big thanks to Youth Alive.