Free from Tuberculosis: A Family's Journey Facing TB

16 August 2023

Jerry is the second family member to be affected by Tuberculosis (TB) in his household. The struggle against the disease began with Agus, his father, who successfully underwent TB treatment two years ago and has since made a complete recovery. 

Initially, Jerry experienced nothing more than a common cough. However, as time progressed, the cough grew increasingly pronounced. Agus noted this deteriorating change and began to suspect that his son might have contracted TB. Although Jerry was initially hesitant to believe Agus, he eventually quit smoking as an effort to relieve the persistent cough. Jerry's life underwent a significant transformation when he endured a week-long fever and had to be admitted to the hospital. It was during this period that Jerry came to the realisation that he was truly infected with TB. 

While many individuals in their local area shy away from TB treatments, the Markodang family confronts this challenge head-on. Having prior experience in tackling TB, the Markodang family provides support for Jerry and takes various measures to break the chain of transmission within their own family. During the treatment process, Jerry also receives assistance from the medical team at the nearby community health center (Puskesmas).  

Written by Fieni Aprilia, WHO Indonesia Digital Communication Officer. Photo credits: WHO/Iqbal Lubis.  

 

 

WHO/Iqbal Lubis
Jerry Mongkadang is one of the TB patients who follow health protocols within the confines of his home.
© Credits

Facing tuberculosis

Jerry Mongkadang is one of the TB patients who follow health protocols within the confines of his home. He temporarily distanced himself from his social circle. While Jerry's home used to be a bustling place with frequent visitors, his friends began to keep their distance upon learning of his TB diagnosis. As a daily wage worker, Jerry's employment was subtly terminated, and his attempts to return were met with rejection. 

 

WHO/Iqbal Lubis
Agus Mongkadang (right), Jerry's father and a TB survivor, observes his son taking his medication at home.
© Credits

A family's journey

Agus Mongkadang (right), Jerry's father and a TB survivor, observes his son taking his medication at home. Initially, Jerry sought consultation at a nearby Puskesmas, as it is one of the pioneering facilities in the fight against TB. According to the Puskesmas’ assessment, the prevalence of TB in the local community is notably high. While others hesitate to get treatment due to the stigma of TB, the Mongkadang family believes in embracing the treatment rather than avoiding it. 

 

WHO/Iqbal Lubis
Jerry Mongkadang takes TB medication at home. In this photo story, Jerry is in the final month of his six-month-long TB treatment phase.
© Credits

Final treatment phase

Jerry Mongkadang takes TB medication at home. In this photo story, Jerry is in the final month of his six-month-long TB treatment phase. Assuredly, according to medical guidance, the infectious phase has concluded, marking a significant milestone in Jerry's journey towards recovery. 

 

WHO/Iqbal Lubis
Jerry looks at a photograph taken in the days before he contracted TB, reminiscing about his healthier physique. Over time, he noticed a gradual decline in his weight.
© Credits

Reminiscing healthier days

Jerry looks at a photograph taken in the days before he contracted TB, reminiscing about his healthier physique. Over time, he noticed a gradual decline in his weight. 

 

WHO/Iqbal Lubis
Now, Indonesian Christian Association for Health Services (Persekutuan Pelayanan Kristen untuk Kesehatan di Indonesia/PELKESI) health workers routinely conduct monitoring visits to TB patients' homes, including Jerry's residence.
© Credits

Weekly monitoring

During the initial one to two months, Jerry had to travel to a hospital that was an hour away using a motorcycle taxi (ojek). Now, Indonesian Christian Association for Health Services (Persekutuan Pelayanan Kristen untuk Kesehatan di Indonesia/PELKESI) health workers routinely conduct monitoring visits to TB patients' homes, including Jerry's residence.  

 

WHO/Iqbal Lubis
Left to right: Jerry's younger brother, Agus, Jerry, and Imelia (Jerry's niece) sit closely together in the living room.
© Credits

Family's support

Left to right: Jerry's younger brother, Agus, Jerry, and Imelia (Jerry's niece) sit closely together in the living room. 

Agus overcame TB two years ago. Following in his footsteps, Jerry faced the same battle and is currently undergoing his recovery phase. Stepping into a crucial role, Imelia has taken on the responsibility of being the caregiver within the household.  

 

WHO/Iqbal Lubis
Jerry Mongkadang (left) and Agus Mongkadang (right), members of a family affected by TB, diligently follow health protocols at their home. Each morning, they adhere to a routine activity instilled by Agus, involving sunbathing from sunrise until 9 AM.
© Credits

Daily routine

Jerry Mongkadang (left) and Agus Mongkadang (right), members of a family affected by TB, diligently follow health protocols at their home. Each morning, they adhere to a routine activity instilled by Agus, involving sunbathing from sunrise until 9 AM. Even though Agus has already recovered from TB, he continues to practice this sunbathing routine.  

 

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