How Stephen Hawking Defied ALS Odds for 55 Years

When Stephen Hawking was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at age 21 in 1963, the outlook was stark: most patients live about three years. Yet Hawking defied those odds for 55 years, until his passing in 2018. His story, intertwined with groundbreaking work like A Brief History of Time, continues to inspire around the world.

In a recent CGTN interview, Professor Fan Dongsheng, a leading neurologist at Peking University Third Hospital in the Chinese mainland, reflected on Hawking’s extraordinary case. Professor Fan is exploring what factors – whether medical, technological or lifestyle-related – might unlock longer survival times for people living with ALS.

Although ALS remains incurable, Professor Fan’s ongoing research aims to shed light on the variables that contributed to Hawking’s resilience. He hopes these insights will help shape future patient care and open new avenues in ALS treatment.

Stephen Hawking’s legacy goes beyond theoretical physics; it’s a testament to human creativity and perseverance. For students, innovators and changemakers, his life underscores how scientific progress and unwavering determination can challenge even the toughest medical odds.

As the global community rallies behind ALS research, Hawking’s example reminds us that progress often emerges from bold questions and sustained effort. His extraordinary journey continues to guide our pursuit of better therapies and brighter futures.

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How did Stephen Hawking survive so long despite having ALS?

cgtn.com