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Papers by Ashling McCarthy

Victims of HIV/AIDS are not only those infected with the disease, but also those who are affected... more Victims of HIV/AIDS are not only those infected with the disease, but also those who are affected by it; such as the children of infected parents and relatives, and indeed, all children living in communities in which the disease has reached epidemic proportions. As the number of orphaned and vulnerable children continues to rise unabated in South Africa the question remains as to who will take responsibility for these children once their parents, and relatives, have died. Research shows that the extended family continues to be the first line of support for such children; however, the dissolution of the extended family, due to HIV/AIDS, is also widely documented. The aim of this study is to explore two non-kin models of care which are available to orphaned and vulnerable children in KwaZulu-Natal; a transition home and a cluster foster home.

First and foremost I would like to thank my supervisor and friend, Sue de la Porte, for inspiring... more First and foremost I would like to thank my supervisor and friend, Sue de la Porte, for inspiring my desire to explore the social impact of HIV/AIDS on children in South Africa. Thank you for your tireless effort in helping me to achieve a standard of quality in my research and written work that I can be proud of as an anthropologist. Your knowledge and passion for the care of children affected by HIV/AIDS, and the many (many) conversations on the subject, held in your office over countless cups of tea, have enabled me to move forward confidently in this field of research. Thank you to the foster parents who allowed me into their homes; your valuable input has added to the body of knowledge of care for orphaned and vulnerable children affected by HIV/AIDS. Thank you to both organisations for permitting me and trusting me to conduct research on your premises. The very evident love which was expressed for the children in your care was a wonderful indicator of the good work which is being carried out by the foster parents at each organisation. Many thanks to the staff in the Anthropology department at the University of KwaZulu Natal, you opened up new avenues in life for me; your input is very much appreciated. Kirsten, best friend and personal psychologist, thank you for the opportunity of being able to talk about my research, in-depth and ad infinitum, and for giving valuable suggestions and alternative points of view. To my parents who allowed me to explore the numerous careers in which I was interested and finally encouraged me as I began on a path which represents a way of life, rather than a career. My passion and love for this country was born out of your pioneering spirit which brought you to South Africa, if initially only for a year, which has lasted over thirty years. Thank you for teaching me to value people before money.

Encyclopedia of Women in Today's World, 2011