John Green’s Inspired Journey: From Eradicating Tuberculosis to Advocating for Global Health

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health challenge, despite the availability of vaccines and medicines. Its impact is particularly pronounced in developing countries like Sierra Leone, where the healthcare system was severely affected by civil war and an Ebola outbreak. John Green, a renowned author and public health advocate, has been at the forefront of efforts to combat TB and improve healthcare access in underserved regions.

The State of Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis is a disease caused by bacteria that most commonly affect the lungs. While there are effective vaccines and treatments available, the challenge lies in ensuring their accessibility and efficacy. The childhood BCG (Bacille Calmette-Guérin) vaccine is not always effective in providing lifelong protection, necessitating the need for booster vaccinations in adulthood.

Recent figures indicate that TB remains a deadly disease, with significant mortality rates. In Sierra Leone, for instance, the maternal mortality rate is still high, with one in 20 women dying in childbirth. This statistic highlights the urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure, which has been severely compromised by conflicts and epidemics.

John Green’s Advocacy for Health Care

John Green's journey toward advocating for global health began when he observed the dire conditions in Sierra Leone after a civil war and an Ebola outbreak. In collaboration with other nonprofit organizations, Green worked to raise funds for the Maternal Center of Excellence, aimed at improving maternal care and reducing maternal mortality rates. Admitting that he lacks deep expertise in the subject, Green emphasizes the importance of local doctors and ongoing education in the field.

Inspiring Influences: Bill Gates and Keir Graff

Green's work in advocating for global health care has been significantly influenced by individuals like Bill Gates. During a visit to Ethiopia in 2014, Green learned firsthand about the country's need for access to clean water and sanitation. He challenged his audience to raise $100,000 for Ethiopian aid, and Gates matched the donation, inspiring a successful campaign with the contribution of 220,000 dollars from the members of Nerdfighteria.

Keir Graff, a fellow author who worked with Green as an editorial assistant before the publication of Green's debut novel, shares a similar perspective on Green's handling of celebrity and success. Graff points out that Green's success has not led to self-absorption, but rather a drive to use his fame to help others and promote worthy causes.

Fame and Impact

John Green's success as an author has been marked by both mainstream recognition and a commitment to using his platform for social good. While the 2014 adaptation of “The Fault in Our Stars” brought him renown, he remains focused on meaningful work and impact. The upcoming release of a movie adaptation of his 2017 novel “Turtles All the Way Down” promises to bring additional attention, but Green maintains that his primary interest lies in making an impact and learning.

For Green, the study of tuberculosis has been a source of immense fulfillment, allowing him to engage with a fascinating and historically significant disease. His approach to dealing with fame and success is lauded by colleagues, who see it as a model for how one can leverage their platform for positive change. Green's journey exemplifies the importance of ethical leadership and the power of using success to drive meaningful action.