Group Education Manual - Peace Corps Wiki

Handout 7B: Tshepo’s StoryTshepo is a 23-year-old man. He matriculated five years ago, and now does construction work. Tshepolives at home with his mother, his older sister Thembi, and her three young children ages 2, 6, and 12.Thembi is living with AIDS, and has been experiencing serious health problems for the past year. On manydays, she is too weak to leave her bed. Thembi’s husband died of an AIDS-related infection last year.Tshepo’s mother is diabetic, and therefore has health concerns of her own. Nonetheless, she continues towork as a maid, and spends all of her free time caring for her three grandchildren. Thembi’s youngest childVusi, is HIV-positive, and therefore often requires special attention.Tshepo has been noting the strain thatThembi’s and Vusi’s illnesses have placed on the rest of his family.His mother is so busy that she does not get adequate rest, further complicating her struggle with diabetes.Meanwhile, Thembi’s oldest daughter has dropped out of school in order to help with care for the family.Tshepo has felt compelled to do his part, and initially tried to help in the house. Tshepo tried to help hismother and niece in caring for Thembi and Vusi, but there have been many challenges. Tshepo had neverlearned to cook or clean, and found he lacked the skills to do this. He felt embarrassed to ask. When he didtry to wash clothes, his mother complained that he did it incorrectly, saying, “men are useless in thesematters!” Tshepo also found little support from his peers. His friends tease him for cooking, and becomeannoyed when he doesn’t join them for drinking on the weekends. They often say, “Why are you doingwomen’s work? That is your mother’s job!”Discussion Questions1. What challenges does Tshepo face as he tries to play a role in the care and support for his family?What other challenges do you think he may be facing?2. What could Tshepo do to overcome these challenges?3. How could Tshepo’s friends and family help him overcome these challenges?65