When we hear the words “global pandemic,” it’s easy to believe there’s nothing individuals can do to stop the spread of HIV. But there are practical ways to be involved. To learn more about what you can do, visit our BE THE VIRUS homepage.Chuchon Ath was not well-liked in his community, especially by his Christian neighbors. The young Cambodian man was known for his temper and ill-treatment of believers, including his wife.

"I made a lot of trouble for the Christian people," he said. "I did not want my wife to go to church, and if she did, I said things to hurt her."

Insults were only part of his abusive behavior.

"I was a drunkard and had many girlfriends," he said. "I never wanted to help my wife. Instead, I visited friends and drank with them. When I came home, I always brought problems to the family."

Ath's life began to change when he met El Sim, a local pastor who had participated in a Prescription for Hope training program. The Samaritan's Purse HIV/AIDS ministry teaches Christian leaders like Sim how to reach out with compassionate care and Biblically-based prevention education. Through this program, thousands of people have received lessons on abstinence, faithfulness in marriage, and other behaviors that reduce the risk of contracting the disease.

After spending time with Pastor Sim, Ath committed his life to Jesus Christ.

"When I became a Christian, my life was changed," he said. "I felt bad about what I had done to my family and others. I confessed my sin to the Lord and asked Him to take control of my life."

Though he is committed to being a better person, Ath said he still faces many temptations.

"My old friends pressure me," he said. "I just pray, and the Lord always helps me walk away. I do not want to make God unhappy."

In addition to the transformation in his own life, Ath has become an inspiration to his neighbors.

"He has changed completely," said one community member. "We never thought he could be a good person like this. Your God is an amazing God."

Samaritan's Purse , Cambodia , Prescription for Hope , A Changed Life