Outreach
Gives HOPE, Saves Lives
By Dr. Ali Fourkan
Migration is a critical factor
exacerbating the TB burden and contributing to the development of
multidrug-resistant forms of this disease. Nearly seven out of ten migrants
diagnosed with TB fail to complete the prescribed treatment for cure due to
lack of access to health care and support. In Kazakhstan, Project HOPE, supported by the Global Fund to Fight AIDS,
Tuberculosis and Malaria is turning the tide. Partnering with government
institutions, other NGOs and civil society, HOPE is removing barriers to access
through outreach screenings, awareness campaigns and migrant-friendly treatment
facilities. Last year, this outreach impacted 59,576 migrant workers, including
Gulnara, a young mother living in Kazakhstan.
In 2003 I came from Russia to
Kazakhstan with my husband. I did not plan to stay for long, but fate often
changes everything. I divorced and was forced to live in an unfamiliar city
with my young child. I got a job and my life began improving. However, in 2010
my documents were stolen. I could not recover them, because I was afraid of
deportation. I lived in fear, without documents, earning money where I could.
When the weakness and cough began, I
did not know what to do. Then I met Banu. She worked with migrants and
encouraged me to be examined for TB. I found out that I had TB. I was so
frightened. Banu immediately took me to the TB dispensary and I was put in
hospital for treatment. I was in shock, constantly crying. I felt alone.
Marina, a social worker with the program, and Banu calmed and supported me,
assuring me I would be cured.
When the weakness and cough began, I did not know what to
do.
While I was in the hospital, the
team also helped me apply for a reissue of my documents. I am grateful to Banu,
Marina and Project HOPE for the opportunity to be treated free of charge. I now
have a firm belief that I will stand up on my feet and my life will be
improved.
I want to say to all who are
treated, don’t give up, be positive and get treatment without missing a single
day. And most important – remember that TB is curable!
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