The New Zealand AIDS Foundation says its new Wellness Fund has proven to be extremely successful, with many HIV positive people using it to access much needed dental and facial restoration for conditions caused by the complications of living with HIV and long term use of antiretroviral medication.

These treatments are expensive and not publicly funded, and some of the health needs can cause stigma, pain and low self esteem.

"Having been HIV Positive for 22 years and on HAART for more than ten, I had developed severe lipodystrophy," says one man. "My face was the most noticeable - sunken cheeks, hollow temples and an almost skeletal appearance.

"I had done research on what was available to remedy 'the look' but the procedure is very, very expensive. The Wellness Fund grant has enabled me to have a number of facial filling treatments helping me look 'normal' again."

The initial cap was placed at $50,000, but due to speedy uptake, this has already been reached in three months. It has been decided to raise this cap to $100,000 for the first twelve months in order to address applications still arriving.

"It is wonderful that the fundraising of so many New Zealanders is making a difference for people living with HIV", says Eamonn Smythe, National Positive Health Manager.

"With the cap lifted we can make sure those dollars reach as many as possible, but it does mean we will have very little left."

Individual donations, World AIDS Day collections and bequests are key to the Wellness Fund's success. Donations can be made at the link below.