HIV victims benefit from TCM project

Thirteen years ago, Li Guo, then 33 years old, was diagnosed with HIV, a virus he contracted as a result of rampant illegal blood collection in Henan province.

"I was so feeble at the time, I couldn't get to my feet," Li said, remembering his days in bed anticipating death. "I even had my coffin made."

Li now leads an ordinary life. When interviewed last week for World AIDS Day, which is observed internationally on Dec 1, Li was building a house with other villagers in his hometown. His real name is not being used.