Ringo Starr’s journey to becoming a music icon was shaped by his battle with childhood illnesses. Before he rose to fame as the drummer of the Beatles, Starr faced significant health challenges that could have altered the course of his life.
Born as Richard Starkey Jr. on July 7, 1940, in Liverpool, England, Ringo Starr endured a difficult childhood. His father, Richard Starkey, left the family when Starr was only three years old, leaving his mother, Elsie Gleave, to support them by working as a barmaid. Starr had no real relationship with his biological father and was raised by his mother and stepfather.
At the age of six, Starr’s life took a dangerous turn when his appendix burst, leading to peritonitis. He underwent surgery to have his ruptured appendix removed but developed a severe internal infection afterward. This condition, known as peritonitis, was life-threatening. Starr spent ten weeks in the hospital, sometimes barely conscious, and was fortunate to survive. He was then transferred to the Royal Children’s Hospital in Liverpool, where he spent the next year recovering.
Unfortunately, Starr’s recovery was not without setbacks. Six months into his hospital stay, he accidentally fell out of bed, tearing open his stitches and necessitating further surgery. This incident extended his hospital stay, and he remained there until 1948.
Returning home, Starr faced difficulties readjusting to everyday life, particularly at school. His health struggles had caused him to fall behind his peers, and he found it challenging to keep up. He developed a dislike for school, feeling that he didn’t receive the necessary support. As a result, he often stayed home and received home-schooling from a family friend.
However, Starr’s medical challenges were not over. At the age of 13, he was diagnosed with tuberculosis (TB). The area where he lived had a high prevalence of the disease, and many people were suffering without a cure. Starr was fortunate that the discovery of Streptomycin coincided with his illness. He was sent to a sanatorium, where he received treatment and spent another year recovering. The breakthrough in TB treatment saved his life.
During his time in the hospital, Starr discovered his passion for music. Recreational activities for the young patients included playing musical instruments, and Starr was particularly drawn to the drums. He fondly recalls a teacher introducing the different instruments and the joy he experienced playing the drums. This marked the beginning of his love affair with percussion.
Upon leaving the hospital, Starr improvised his first drum kit using biscuit tins and firewood. At 16, he acquired a bass drum, and by 18, he finally had his first complete drum kit. Despite setbacks in his education and various jobs, Starr’s passion for music led him to become a part of Liverpool’s thriving music scene. Eventually, he was invited to join The Beatles, a decision that would change music history forever.
Although Starr’s health issues continued to cause occasional disruptions, such as contracting tonsillitis and pharyngitis before a world tour in 1964, his determination and love for music prevailed. He overcame his aversion to hospitals, which stemmed from his traumatic experiences, and focused on his craft.
Today, at 82 years old, Ringo Starr remains the oldest living member of The Beatles and a true rock legend. His journey from a childhood plagued by illnesses to becoming an iconic musician showcases his resilience and enduring passion for music. May he continue to rock on for many years to come.