My TB Story is a platform dedicated to providing a space where anyone can come and share their experiences with tuberculosis (TB). Whether you are a person currently battling TB, a survivor, a healthcare provider, or someone who has witnessed the impact of TB, your story matters here.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and in South Africa, it remains a significant public health challenge. Sharing your journey with TB can be a powerful way to help others who may be experiencing similar struggles. By sharing your story on My TB Story, you can help raise awareness, break the stigma, and inspire others to take action.

Why share your story?

Increase Awareness

TB is often misunderstood and stigmatized. Sharing your story can help raise awareness about the disease, its symptoms, and treatment options. Increased awareness can lead to more people seeking testing and treatment, ultimately helping reduce the impact of TB.

Over 300,000 people will get sick with TB in South Africa this year. Almost half won’t know they have TB. By sharing your story, you can help educate others about the prevalence of TB and the importance of awareness.

• We are all at risk of TB but we can protect ourselves and those around us by knowing what the symptoms are and where to get care. Personal stories can emphasize that TB affects everyone and highlight preventive measures.
• Your story can encourage regular screenings and prompt others to get tested, especially those at higher risk.
• By sharing your journey to diagnosis and treatment, you can stress the importance of early detection.
• Highlighting your positive experiences with healthcare providers can reassure others and build trust in the healthcare system.

Break the Stigma

TB carries a sense of shame and embarrassment that can prevent people from seeking help. By sharing your experience, you can help break this stigma and create a more supportive environment for those affected by TB.

• TB doesn’t always have symptoms: Get yourself tested for TB if you have lived with someone affected. Sharing stories can dispel myths and encourage proactive health measures.
• Coughing, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, fever, and feeling tired: any of these symptoms could be caused by TB; all can be treated. Personal narratives can normalize discussing symptoms and seeking treatment.
• We can all be safe if everyone who has TB is diagnosed and treated. Stories can inspire a community-wide effort to get tested and treated, reducing the spread of TB.
• TB is not only about having a cough. It can affect anyone, at any time, and, at any part of the body. You have a right to know about TB. Ask your healthcare provider about it. Sharing diverse experiences with TB can highlight its wide-reaching impact and educate others.

Ready to share your story?

We look forward to hearing from you! Remember, your story matters, and it can make a real difference in the lives of others. We thank you in advance for your willingness to share your experience with us.