Lee Starkey**, daughter of Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, has faced an extraordinary health crisis—and emerged even more resilient. In **August 1995**, at age 24, Lee suddenly collapsed in England after experiencing numbness in her arm and leg. Doctors diagnosed her with an **ependymoma brain tumor**—a rare but treatable form—and swiftly transferred her to **Brigham and Women’s Hospital** in Boston. There, renowned neurosurgeon **Dr. Peter Black** performed a complex four‑hour operation. According to contemporary reports, the tumor was **completely removed**, and Lee was released just days later. She then undertook a course of daily radiation therapy to ensure her recovery .
Her fight, however, did not end there. In **November 2001**, the tumor recurred, prompting a second round of treatment at the same Boston hospital. Again, Lee triumphed, successfully undergoing surgery and further therapy, eventually achieving full remission .
Beyond her medical battles, Lee has channeled her strength into creative pursuits—establishing herself as a **make‑up artist**, **fashion designer**, and stylist in London. In 2006, she began a long-term relationship with musician **Jay Mehler**, and in late 2009 they welcomed **triplets** (two sons, Jakamo and Smokey, and a daughter, Ruby) ([m.imdb.com][2]).
Lee’s story is one of unwavering courage. Navigating the loss of her mother, Maureen Starkey Tigrett, in late 1994 to leukemia, she then faced her own health crisis months later—and in doing so, displayed remarkable tenacity. Supported by her father, Ringo Starr, stepmother Barbara Bach, and siblings, Lee not only beat cancer twice but has built a fulfilling personal and professional life in its aftermath.
