A Child of Sanitariums

This dramatic memoir recounts one woman's experience with spinal tuberculosis, which she contracted at the age of five in the 1930s. It recounts her next nine years living in tuberculosis sanatoriums where she underwent many treatments for the disease and was finally released when she was 14. In later years, she became permanently disabled and confined to a wheelchair. Despite her disablement, she went on to marry and have three children, work as a microbiologist, perform as a comedienne, and serve as an advocate for minority groups. By turns deeply affecting and hilarious, this memoir provides a glimpse into a still-dangerous disease and is a testament to the power of human perseverance and hope.