Through the NCD Diaries and Voices of the Health Revolution podcast series, people living with noncommunicable diseases tell their stories, share their journeys, and reveal their challenges, achievements and demands for equitable healthcare. Through spoken word and conversations with family, community members, and fellow advocates, they bring experiences and insights to listeners everywhere.
Here's a selection of powerful excerpts from episodes in both series.
My name is Charity Muturi, and I am from Kenya. My mental health advocacy began in 2015 after becoming a public mental health patient. Experiencing gaps in care inspired me to fight for better services, from grassroots to national levels. I’m sharing how we can address stigma, improve access to mental health services, and ensure no one is left behind.
Hello, my name is Chikhulupiliro Stanley Jnr Ng'ombe and I am from Malawi. I have been living with epilepsy since 1992 and am also a leukemia survivor. I’m sharing my story to help even one person like me have a better chance of fighting and living with an NCD in Malawi.
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I’m Vicki Pinkney-Atkinson, Director of the South African NCD Alliance. I’m sharing the story behind South Africa’s first people-centred National Strategic Plan for NCDs (2022-2027). From gatecrashing meetings to confronting systemic neglect, we fought to secure accountability, equitable policies, and resources for NCDs. Inspired by the path paved by the HIV/AIDS movement, this plan marks a turning point—and it’s just the beginning.
My name is Christopher Agbega and I’m from Ghana. For over a decade, I’ve lived with Hereditary Motor Sensory Neuropathy, diagnosed nine years too late. I was part of the team that produced the Ghana Advocacy Agenda for People Living with NCDs. Through my NCD Diary, I hope to inspire others by sharing my journey from diagnosis to advocacy.
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I’m Snehal Nandagawli from India. I’ve been living with Type 1 Diabetes for over 20 years. I volunteer with the Blue Circle Diabetes Foundation, work as a manager at PwC, and blog about makeup, fitness, and my life with diabetes. I’m sharing the story of my diagnosis, my experience of managing diabetes, and the power of community and advocacy. I hope to help people living with NCDs live life to the fullest with a positive mindset and acceptance.
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My name is Omar Abureesh. I am a cancer survivor, doctor, and NCD advocate from Jordan. My diagnosis revealed the struggles many face in accessing quality care. Though I was fortunate to receive coverage for my treatment, countless others are left without help. Jordanians deserve universal health coverage, ensuring affordable and high-quality care for all living with NCDs. No one should have to fight alone for their basic human right to health.
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My name is Liz Owino, and I’m from Kenya. I’ve lived with sickle cell disease since infancy, but it wasn’t until I was 18 that I accepted my condition after a long and painful hospital stay. I share the struggles of living with sickle cell, from the emotional toll to the financial barriers in accessing proper care. I want to dispel the myths surrounding sickle cell disease and advocate for affordable, accessible treatment, urging the Kenyan government to prioritize universal health coverage so everyone gets the care they deserve.
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I’m Vijayalakshimy K. Silvathorai from Malaysia. For years, I managed obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol, until a cancer diagnosis changed everything. I share my awakening to the realities of living with multiple NCDs. I discuss the importance of early intervention, the challenges of managing chronic conditions, and the need for holistic health care that addresses all aspects of our well-being. I want this journey to be one that is less painful and more meaningful for people like myself.
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