In a small house in the suburbs in 2023, love and loyalty are tested by an unforgiving disease. Wili, a young mother with two children, found that her body was getting weaker due to a cough that would not subside. His weight had dropped drastically, his face was pale, and every breath he took felt heavy. Andi, the husband, could only stare with eyes full of worry.
"I've been here and there, Andi. The medicine from the clinic only relieves it for a moment, but this cough doesn't get tired enough to come back," complained Wili, his voice hoarse.
Andi nodded, holding back the anxiety that was gripping his chest. He knew his wife was sick, but didn't know what to do or where to complain. Until finally, the results of the examination at the community health center gave an answer that shook his heart - Wili was declared Drug-Resistant TB (TB-RO), where Wili had to undergo long, heavy treatment (18 months), full of tiring side effects.
"I will always be here," said Andi, holding Wili's hand tightly. He looked at his wife with complete confidence, because that was the only steadfastness Andi could give.
The hard days began. Wili has to take medicine every day even though the side effects attack him mercilessly. His legs ached, his body was weak, and his skin even started to turn black. "I can't take it anymore, Andi. My face is black, I'm ashamed of you," he whispered one night, tears streaming down his cheeks without pause.
Andi took a deep breath, then sat beside him. Lovingly, he rubbed his wife's back and whispered, "We have children who are waiting for their mother to be healthy. You have to hold on. I will always be here."
For Wili's sake, Andi did everything he could. He gave up his established job, choosing to become a motorbike taxi driver so he could adjust his time to his wife's needs, because his wife's life was worth nothing. Every time he goes to the hospital, he always accompanies him. Every time Wili had doubts about taking medicine, he patiently persuaded him. "Drink first, then I'll massage your feet or do you want me to buy you snacks?" he said with a warm smile.
However, their exams are not over yet. Their two children also had to undergo TB treatment, the youngest contracted TB SO and the eldest received TB Prevention Therapy (TPT). Not wanting to add to Wili's burden, Andi decided to temporarily entrust their children to a trusted neighbor. "They will be fine, the important thing is that you recover first," he said with teary eyes.
Month after month passed. Wili continues to fight, and Andi remains steadfast by his side. Every pill swallowed, every pain endured, all leads to a brighter hope. Until finally, in January 2025, the doctor declared Wili cured.
Andi couldn't hold back his happy tears. "We did it, darling," he said, hugging his wife tightly.
As a form of gratitude, Andi presented Wili with a small trip with their family. "Where are you going? Free, the important thing is that we are together," he said, a smile spreading across his face.
Mrs. Nurjanah, a TBC cadre who had accompanied them on their journey, looked at the couple with emotion. "It's rare to find couples like you. Many patients are actually abandoned by their partners when they are sick. You are proof that true love exists."
This month of love is not just about flowers and chocolates. It's about sacrifice, sincerity, and the belief that love can be the most effective medicine in dealing with illness. Thank you to the fighters who continue to support TB patients. This struggle does not belong to one person, but to all of us.
