Billy Evans, the partner of disgraced Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes, is reportedly raising funds for a new blood-testing company named Haemanthus. According to investor sources and marketing materials reviewed by The New York Times, Haemanthus aims to achieve “human health optimization” by developing a device that uses laser technology to examine blood, saliva, and urine samples, screening for cancer and infections.
Initially, Haemanthus plans to focus its efforts on pet health applications before expanding the technology for human use. The startup is reportedly aiming to secure over $50 million in funding.
This startup initiative closely mirrors Theranos’ controversial promise to deliver diverse and comprehensive medical diagnostics from small blood samples obtained through finger-prick tests. Theranos collapsed amidst allegations of widespread fraud, resulting in Elizabeth Holmes receiving an 11-year prison sentence in 2022. Despite her imprisonment, Holmes recently reaffirmed her dedication to providing accessible healthcare solutions.
Early Facebook investor Jim Breyer was approached by Haemanthus but declined the investment proposal, citing concerns similar to those that led his team to pass twice on Theranos.
