Priya Amin’s Story

In 2015, I did a routine TB skin test for a new employer in the education sector to satisfy work requirements. When it turned out to be positive, everyone was surprised – I was born and raised in Toronto, I hadn’t travelled to an endemic country for close to a decade, and no one in my circle had TB. I felt so alone with a disease, at that point, I didn’t fully understand. I was diagnosed with pulmonary and presumed extra pulmonary TB and I was resistant to two drugs, one causing liver enzyme complications. My treatment was put on pause for a few months while in quarantine. 

It wasn’t easy– I had lost a lot of weight. It didn’t help that people (even) in my immediate circle feared being around me because they were afraid that they would contract TB. With persistence and great support from some of my healthcare team members, I fought and conquered TB! 

Through my journey, the internet was my confidant and best friend on numerous occasions. I searched for people who understood what I was going through – those with lived experience or knew someone who had a bout with TB, but it was a struggle. There was no support group for us. Just because Canada is a low-burden country, it doesn’t negate the fact that TB is still prevalent and an ongoing concern. So, I became my own advocate and for those I would see waiting their turn at the TB clinic with me. I shared my journey with TB at a public event for the first time in 2018 – it was empowering. Education, cultural awareness and sensitivity, early detection, and patient-centered care, I feel, is critical to fighting TB, and, as people with lived experience, we hold the key. You are not alone! Reach out...I'm here!