The Early Days

It started as the flu, but while the flu went away, my voice never returned. I attended three clinic visits and one emergency hospital visit before being fully admitted into a healthcare facility.

“It started as the flu, but while the flu went away, my voice was nowhere to be found.”

At first, clinics just said, “Try these pills and come back if you don’t feel any better.” In early January 2022, I suffered from shortness of breath. I was rushed to the hospital but was never admitted. My health deteriorated day by day—I could barely walk, struggled to breathe, and getting by was hard. I had to be bathed and fed. I coughed so much I could feel my breathing becoming distant.

“I was struggling to breathe, and getting by was hard. I had to be bathed and fed.”

Diagnosis & Treatment

In mid-January 2022, I was finally admitted to the hospital after 10 hours in the ER. Doctors came in and out, saying they didn’t see anything, until an X-ray revealed the problem. I could barely stand, and every breath felt like a struggle.

I spent two weeks in hospital after my diagnosis, then was discharged to start treatment at my local clinic.

“The saying ‘it gets worse before it gets better’ best describes my situation.”

I began TB treatment on 26 January 2022, taking four Rifafour tablets daily and one small white tablet to help with breathing. My body reacted in different ways, my diet changed completely, and I lost 10 kg, dropping from 69 kg.

After six months of treatment, I was cleared on 26 July 2022.

Life After TB

I am a non-drinker and non-smoker, yet TB affected me. This disease can attack anyone, regardless of lifestyle. Taking care of ourselves protects not only our health but also the people around us.

My voice hasn’t fully returned to normal. I’m sensitive to strong smells, some activities feel heavy for my lungs, and there are things I cannot do, like holding my breath for long or drinking cold beverages.

“I am reminded every day of what TB took from me.”

Despite this, my lungs and overall health have gained momentum—I continue to recover, one day at a time.

A Message to Others

The youth of today should take care of themselves. Parties, alcohol, and smoking can increase the risk of TB exposure.

“I am a statistic. Be wise—don’t be a statistic as well.”
 “Your lungs are the only engine your body has.”

Chauke’s story is a powerful reminder that TB does not discriminate. Know the symptoms, test early, and support those affected—it can save lives.