“Tuberculosis (TB) remains South Africa’s leading cause of death despite being a preventable and treatable disease. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), TB is responsible for more deaths in the country than any other single disease, a stark reminder of its severity and the urgent need for greater awareness and action.”
World Health Organization, Global Tuberculosis Report, 2023
Jen Kidger’s story is about resilience, determination, and triumph over adversity. Growing up in the scenic landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal, splitting her time between her father’s dairy farm in Creighton and her mother’s home in Ballito, Jen lived a life marked by activity, health, and academic achievement. However, her matric year (2019) brought an unexpected battle that would challenge her in ways she could never have anticipated.
In what should have been a year of celebration and achievement, Jen was plagued by a series of worsening symptoms – extreme fatigue, chest infections, chronic cough, weight loss, and relentless fevers – along with significant mental distress. Despite numerous hospital admissions and extensive diagnostic tests, her condition was repeatedly misdiagnosed as pneumonia. It was not until a life-saving lung surgery that the actual cause was identified: tuberculosis (TB). Jen was not even aware of her TB diagnosis immediately following the surgery, as she spent days in the ICU with a spinal block, unable to feel anything from the neck down. Initially overlooked because Jen did not fit the typical “profile” of a patient with suspected TB, this diagnosis shattered the misconception that TB is discriminatory, proving that it can affect anyone, regardless of their background.
TB is known as the silent killer, and it certainly lived up to its name in Jen’s case. The disease crept into her lungs, stealthily undermining her health and vitality. But Jen, with unwavering determination, took one step forward at a time.
As she regained her strength, Jen embarked on a journey of recovery. The road was arduous, filled with medication regimens, doctor visits, and emotional battles. Yet, she persisted. Her family and friends rallied around her, providing unwavering support. Jen’s story became a beacon of hope – a testament to the human spirit’s resilience.
“I remember the days when I couldn’t even climb a flight of stairs without gasping for breath,” Jen recalls. “But I refused to let TB define me. I took one step forward, then another. Each day, I pushed myself a little harder. And slowly, I began to regain my strength.”
Jen’s journey wasn’t just about physical healing but a transformation of mind, body, and soul. She immersed herself in TB education, advocating for early detection, destigmatisation, and accessible treatment. She shared her story openly, dispelling myths and encouraging others to seek help, using her social media platforms.
“TB doesn’t discriminate,” Jen emphasises. “It doesn’t care about your age, background, or dreams. But we can fight back. We can raise our voices, demand better healthcare, and support each other. Together, we can overcome this silent killer.”
Today, Jen stands tall – a survivor, an advocate, and a symbol of hope. Her journey from struggle to strength inspires countless others facing similar battles. As the sun sets over the rolling hills of KwaZulu-Natal, Jen’s footsteps leave an indelible mark – one foot forward, always moving toward a brighter, healthier future.
“I may have lost a year, but I gained a lifetime of purpose,” Jen says with a smile. “And that’s worth every step.”
And so, Jen Kidger’s story continues – one foot forward, echoing resilience, courage, and the unwavering belief that triumph is possible, even in the face of adversity.