Despite the advancements made in the knowledge and treatment of the human immunodeficiency
virus (HIV) since it was first discovered, people living with HIV (PLWH) continue to be stigmatized.
This paper presents the case of an HIV-infected patient who delayed the necessary treatment due
to stigma and ultimately presented with AIDS. Through social support, however, he was able to
overcome his internalized stigma; he was finally willing to start on antiretroviral treatment (ART).
This case report addresses the effect of stigma on and the role of social support in the management of
an individual with HIV.