Overcoming TB: Dennis’ journey to recovery at Soweto Kayole Clinic.

Our Soweto Kayole clinic has received cases related to Tuberculosis (TB) and has offered treatment to about 20-25 patients in a month. Dennis Okumu who is 27 years old, a husband and a father has been a patient with one month of treatment since the diagnosis.

“My health started to deteriorate in one month. I was having consistent cough chest pains, difficulty in breathing, sweating overnight, rapid weight loss and loss of appetite. In that one-month, I got so emaciated that I could not stand all by myself. All this time I had not sought any medical attention. But I was living under speculations. Until my brother insisted that I go for a medical checkup.” Dennis said.

Dennis said that the proximity of Soweto Kayole Health Center has been of great help to him. “When my brother encouraged me to go to the hospital I chose to come here since it is near my place of residence. It is then that a test was carried out and a diagnosis of TB was reported”

Dennis reported that it is through the test that the underlying issue was discovered which now resolved the conflict he had with his wife. “My wife could not understand what I was ailing from. She thought perhaps I had HIV. But with certainty from the test, she got settled that the doctors got to know what I was suffering from”. Dennis reflected.

During his consultation with the clinic, he learned how to prevent spreading the infection to his young child and wife, who live in the same house. “I am grateful for all the guidance the clinicians have provided me. Thanks to their advice, my family members have been coming in for TB prevention medication. I have also received instructions on how to prevent transmitting the infection to those around me,” he added.

Dennis reflected on how much worse his situation was before his diagnosis, affecting him socially, physically, and economically. He noted how things have changed since he began treatment. “I am sorry for what happened to me. My energy levels were very low, and I could no longer go for a jog. Especially now that I do manual jobs, I’m unsure what kind of work would be available to me. Although I have bounced back a little and do some jobs, I have to be selective. However, I am grateful that my appetite has returned, and I have significantly gained some weight,” Dennis said.

He expressed his appreciation for the clinicians for their efforts in helping him regain his health and for providing his medication free of charge. “Many thanks to the clinicians for their determination in monitoring my eating habits and ensuring I follow the prescribed medications. The free medicines have been a great support in my recovery, and I am truly thankful.”

Through the process and services he has received, Dennis has committed to helping others who have similar conditions. “Every service I’ve received has inspired me to assist those facing similar challenges. I will refer them for check-ups and advise them not to delay seeking help as I did,” he concluded.