From Patient to Champion: A Farmer’s Journey with TB

In the quiet outskirts of Kwara community in Lafia, Mr. Asto, a 43‑year‑old farmer, relied on his strength and resilience. Farming was more than his livelihood; it was his pride. But in early 2025, his health began to falter. Persistent chest pain, night sweats, fatigue, and weight loss slowly drained the energy that had sustained him for years.

At first, he tried to handle it on his own. He believed it was one of those times when stress causes you to be knocked down, and, as usual, these feelings would pass. But the pain became too much to bear. On April 15, 2025, he finally sought help at Primary Health Care (PHC) Shabu in Lafia, Nasarawa State. A GeneXpert test was performed, and the result confirmed he had Tuberculosis.

The diagnosis was a shock. However, it became his turning point. With support from health workers at PHC Shabu and the community TB program, he was immediately enrolled in treatment. Mr. Asto was committed to fighting Tuberculosis; he took every dose as prescribed, attended all follow-up visits, and embraced counseling sessions.

Weeks turned into months, and his commitment paid off. On September 29, 2025, he completed his treatment successfully. He had not only regained his health but also discovered a new sense of purpose. TB was no longer just about his recovery but the drive to see that no one in his community dies with a disease that can be cured, and for free.

Motivated by his journey, he became a voice in his community, referring people with TB symptoms to nearby health facilities. Speaking to fellow farmers, neighbors, and young people about early testing, the dangers of stigma, and the importance of completing treatment. His advocacy quickly made an impact.

Out of the 10 people he personally accompanied to the facility, six were farmers, and four were community members. Two tested positive, Isaac, a 26-year-old farmer, and Halima, a 12-year-old girl from the community. Both were immediately started on treatment. Today, Isaac and Halima are responding well, steadily progressing in their recovery, and have been encouraged to refer anyone around them who shows symptoms.

Mr. Asto’s transformation, from a vulnerable patient to a TB champion, shows the power of knowledge, support, and determination. His story is proof that when one chooses to fight TB, he fights not just for themselves but for others, and an entire community can be changed.