When we think of tuberculosis, we imagine a disease from history books, one that should no longer be a threat in the modern world. But TB is still here, affecting 10 million people a year—even though it is preventable and curable.
What Do Ringo Starr and John Green Have in Common?
When Ringo Starr, The Beatles SuperStar, was a child in 1953, he contracted tuberculosis and spent over two years in a sanatorium in England. During his time there, a hospital band was formed to help relieve patients’ boredom—and that’s where he fell in love with drumming.
Meanwhile, John Green, the bestselling author and advocate, became interested in TB after visiting Sierra Leone with Partners In Health in 2019. He realized that TB is not just a historical disease—it’s an ongoing global crisis. Since then, he has spoken before the UN, rallied for expanded access to life-saving TB medication, and helped secure better diagnostic tools for patients worldwide.
Why TB Still Matters
- Drug-resistant TB is on the rise, making treatment harder.
- Delayed diagnoses lead to unnecessary suffering.
- Marginalized communities are disproportionately affected.
How TB Vets Is Taking Action
At TB Vets, we:
✅ Fund life-saving respiratory equipment for hospitals in BC.
✅ Support research to improve TB treatment.
✅ Raise awareness to fight stigma and misinformation.
Together, we can!
