Millions of people have asthma worldwide, 25 million living in North America. While there’s not much you can do to get rid of asthma forever, you can still go on to do amazing things. Many famous people, past and present, have asthma. Some led nations; others created (and still create) some of the most iconic entertainment in the world. Here are five historical figures who have and have had asthma.
Bill Clinton, 42nd President of the US
It may surprise you to learn that the former president of the United States has asthma. Bill Clinton suffers from significant asthma with triggers such as dust or cat dander, making it a real inconvenience for the former president. However, he was able to get into the white house and make significant changes throughout the world, all while dealing with his asthma.
Charles Dickens, Author
Charles Dickens is a famous author who wrote some of the most popular stories we love. Dickens is responsible for writing such classics as A Christmas Carol, David Copperfield, Oliver Twist, and A Tale of Two Cities, all which people still study. His asthma symptoms didn’t hold back his creative mind.
Paula Radcliffe, Women’s Marathon World Record Holder
In 1996, Paula Radcliffe showed the world that asthma might be an obstacle, but it won’t stop you if you keep pushing. She won the world championship six times! She went on to win numerous other competitions until her retirement in 2015. Still, she continues to run for fun.
Bono, Lead Vocalist of U2
If you’re wondering if asthma means you can’t try for your dreams as a performer, Bono proves you can. As one of the most famous and influential voices in music, Bono performs in one of the biggest rock bands of all time and has a very successful career both on and off the stage.
Sarah Michelle Geller, Actress
The silver screen can make anything work, including having asthma, and the audience is none the wiser. Sarah Michelle Geller is an action star with several very famous roles, from kicking the butts of vampires to solving mysteries. Even now, you can see her take to the screen, giving numerous amazing performances without asthma holding her back.
These five figures who have and have had asthma shaped and continue to shape the political, athletic, and entertainment world. They are living and historical proof that you, too, can make a difference with the proper precautions and dedication. Nothing, not even asthma, can hold you back.
