Miaomiao, 9
Miaomiao, 9, is in third grade and has three younger siblings. Both of her parents contracted HIV from selling blood. Her mother has died from the disease, and her four-year-old sister is infected, as well. Her father has experienced serious reactions to his HIV medication. He often comes down with a fever, especially when he has to perform heavy labor. Despite this, he must attempt to work often in order to supplement his income. When he is able to work, he can add an additional 10 Yuan ($1.30 U.S.) per day to his annual income of 600-700 Yuan ($75 to $90 U.S.). Extra work is hard to come by, however, because he is often stigmatized for being HIV positive. Miaomiao's grandmother, who suffers from severe arthritis, cares for the four children. They often have to borrow or receive donations in order to have food to eat.