How Every Step Became a Struggle: Stella's TB Recovery Story
For most of her life, Mrs. Stella, a 60-year-old retired trader from Mbaitolu LGA in Imo State, had always been the one caring for others. Strong, hardworking, and independent, she never imagined that even taking a few steps would one day become a struggle.
It began with an ordinary illness, which featured a persistent fever, unexplained weight loss, severe pain around her waist and legs, and a gradual loss of appetite. As the days passed, breathing became difficult, and the pain grew so intense that walking, something she once did without a second thought, became an exhausting challenge.
“I knew something was wrong. But I never imagined it could be Tuberculosis.”- Stella recalled.
Her illness slowly changed her everyday life. The woman who had once moved around with ease now struggled to carry out simple daily activities. Eating became difficult because she had little appetite, while the constant pain and breathing difficulties left her weak and frustrated. Each passing day brought more questions than answers.
Determined to find relief, she sought medical help and underwent several tests before she was referred to a DOT center by an orthopedic hospital, where she was being managed symptomatically for waist and leg pain without a definitive diagnosis for her illness. Eventually, in February 2026, Mrs. Stella visited the Akwakuma Health Center, one of KNCV Nigeria-supported health facilities. After a thorough clinical assessment by the DOT officer, Mr. Kelechi Achile, she was further reviewed by a medical officer at the health center and diagnosed with extrapulmonary tuberculosis (TB).
Although the diagnosis came as a surprise, it also marked the beginning of her recovery. She was immediately placed on treatment and remained committed to completing her treatment cycle.
Today, she is in the sixth month of treatment and has made remarkable progress with another six months of treatment left. Her strength has returned, the pain has greatly reduced, and she is steadily regaining the healthy life she feared she had lost.
Looking back on her experience, Stella says the journey taught her one important lesson.
“I have learned not to make assumptions about my health. When you are sick, don’t guess and don’t wait. Go to the hospital early so you can receive the right diagnosis and treatment.” She appreciates the free treatment given to her and is grateful to the screening officer and KNCV Nigeria for their support”.
Stella shares her story to encourage others, especially older adults, not to ignore persistent symptoms or rely on assumptions. Her experience is a reminder that tuberculosis can affect anyone, regardless of age, but with early diagnosis and proper treatment, it is curable.
