Rushaan Jacobs

I’m Rushaan Jacobs from Cape Town, South Africa, and a meningitis survivor.

In January 2018, a flu and ear infection rapidly escalated. I awoke in hospital, confused and hooked to tubes. I was left with cognitive impairment, deafness in my right ear, memory lapses, back pain, and depression. Lacking support and understanding from my medical team and family made recovery harder.

Returning to work, I hid my struggles to keep my job, worsening my mental health. Now, in 2025, I’ve made great progress through determination and acceptance.

I want to spread awareness, educate, and share my journey to support others.