From Patient to Advocate: Hassan's Inspiring Journey of Recovery and Hope
“I first want to give thanks to Allah for preserving my life and granting me a quick recovery. I also sincerely appreciate the entire KNCV Nigeria team for the free treatment, testing, medical check-ups, contact tracing, and continuous sensitization provided to me and my family.”
Just over a year ago, Hassan’s future was uncertain. What began as persistent fever, drenching night sweats, and progressive weight loss gradually evolved into a life-threatening illness. Like many people affected by tuberculosis (TB), Hassan initially sought relief through pain medications and antibiotics. Despite multiple attempts at self-medication, his condition continued to worsen, leaving him increasingly weak and unable to carry out his daily activities.
On June 16, 2025, Hassan was rushed to Manaal Specialist Hospital in a critical condition. He was brought in unconscious with symptoms of persistent fever, severe weight loss, and night sweats as reported by the relatives that brought him. Fortunately, on that day, the Kaduna North TB LON PPM Linkage Coordinator, Deboy Jonah Zechariah, was at the facility providing mentorship and support for TB screening activities. While healthcare workers at the hospital attended to Hassan’s immediate medical needs and initiated resuscitative measures, Deboy quickly recognized that Hassan met the criteria for presumptive TB.
Without delay, he facilitated the collection of a sputum sample and personally coordinated its transportation to a diagnostic facility for testing. Through close follow-up, he ensured that the sample was processed promptly and that the result was available within 24 hours. The result confirmed tuberculosis. For Hassan, this diagnosis marked a turning point.
Following confirmation of TB using the GeneXpert test, he was immediately commenced on anti-TB treatment at Manaal Specialist Hospital. However, diagnosis was only the beginning of a long journey toward recovery. Throughout the six-month treatment period, Deboy remained actively involved in Hassan’s care. He ensured close follow-up, provided adherence counseling, offered encouragement during difficult moments, and worked closely with healthcare providers to support Hassan’s treatment journey. This patient-centered approach helped Hassan remain committed to treatment despite the challenges often associated with prolonged medication.
Determined to regain his health, Hassan attended all scheduled clinic visits and follow-up appointments. Month after month, he adhered to treatment and gradually began to recover. On December 14, 2025, after six months of consistent treatment and support, Hassan successfully completed his TB treatment. The transformation was remarkable. Before starting treatment, Hassan weighed just 47 kilograms. By May 15, 2026, his weight had increased to 58 kilograms, reflecting not only physical recovery but also a renewed sense of strength and hope. Today, Hassan is healthy, active, and living free from TB.
“As I tell this story, I can confidently say that I am perfectly fine. Surviving TB has encouraged me to educate others and support people affected by the disease.” says Hassan.
Hassan’s recovery inspired him to take on a new role, not as a patient, but as an advocate. As the Youth Leader of Kafisoli Rafin Guza Community, he now actively participates in community outreach and sensitization activities aimed at increasing awareness about TB, reducing stigma, encouraging quality sample collection, and promoting early testing and treatment.
Recognizing the power of lived experience, KNCV Nigeria continued to engage Hassan even after he completed treatment. With ongoing mentorship and support from Deboy, Hassan has become a strong voice for TB awareness within his community. He shares his story to encourage others to seek care early, adhere to treatment, and support individuals affected by the disease.
