A FRIEND IN NEED IS A FRIEND INDEED

Today, 24th March, is World Tuberculosis Day.  What  do you know about this disease? Why did they choose this date to raise awareness about TB?  Can you pronounce it? Are there any colloquial expressions to refer to this illness? Is it lethal? Do you know any famous person who suffered  from tuberculosis?

Photocopy from 21st March_World Down Syndrome Day_Siamese twins_Gunman kills 4 at French Jewish School: https://docs.google.com/open?id=0B_Nb3d84W0THSUdMM0lwSkJUclNMUnVzMms4N3Zadw