On March 14, 2018, Stephen Hawking’s family confirmed that the world-renowned cosmologist died peacefully in his home that morning at 76 years old. The legendary physicist was told that he had only two years to live when he was 21, but he defied doctors and the medical community alike by living for over 50 years afterwards. He was diagnosed with ALS, a disease that rendered him paralyzed except for a few muscles in his cheek, which allowed him to operate the machine that gave him his unique, robotic voice. His disease did not affect his brain, however, and he went on to have an extraordinary career in science and mathematics.
As a lover of science and astronomy, I was hit especially hard when I heard of Hawking’s death. He was always someone I looked up to, someone I wanted to be like. In fact, when I was younger I wanted to be an astronomer. I wanted to be an observational astronomer, which is someone who works in observatories with telescopes, observing and recording the night sky. Later, I found out that this was not going to work out because math and me did not mix well, but it was a passion that I still have to this day. Stephen Hawking’s work and enthusiasm for science was something that never failed to inspire me.
Stephen Hawking was known for more than just his work, however. He was also known for his constant positivity and sense of humor. He invariably fought against his illness to make sure that he did not stop living a full and wonderful life, no matter what. He never retired, published multiple books, and had three children with his first wife, Jane. He even went up in a zero-gravity simulator that gives you the feeling of being in space, which is just awesome.
If you haven’t seen it already, I would highly recommend watching "The Theory of Everything,"which is the story of Stephen Hawking in his college years and his life with Jane. The film shows you his intelligence, drive and love of life. You see his diagnosis and the progression of his ALS. You see all the ways in which his life is affected and all of the battles he had to face. You also see his astounding bravery, strength and love for both his family and his work. It will definitely motivate you to work harder and dream bigger.
Stephen Hawking’s life was truly remarkable. He was a genius, one of the brightest minds of our time, but he was also a very special person. As I’ve been watching many of his interviews and TV appearances, I am still astounded by how genuine and personable he was, despite all that he had to overcome. It reminds me that no matter what you are going through in life, and no matter what cards you’ve been dealt, life is what you make it. You have the potential to make a great life for yourself, and overcome whatever you’re struggling with. In fact, Stephen Hawking once said, “However bad life may seem, where there is life, there is hope.” That’s absolutely right. Rest in peace, Professor Hawking.