Stephen Hawking, the renowned physicist, cosmologist and author, passed away on March 14, 2018 at the age of 76. He was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, at the young age of 21. Doctors initially estimated he would only live a couple more years, but Hawking defied those odds by living a full and productive life for over five decades.
Here’s a more detailed look at his life:
- Early life and ALS diagnosis: Born in 1942, Stephen Hawking showed an aptitude for science from a young age. At 21, while studying at Cambridge University, he received the life-changing ALS diagnosis.
- A life of achievement: Despite the progressive nature of ALS, Hawking went on to complete his doctorate and achieve remarkable things in the field of cosmology. He made significant contributions to our understanding of black holes and the origins of the universe.
- Sharing knowledge through writing: Hawking wasn’t just a brilliant researcher, he was also a gifted communicator. His book “A Brief History of Time” became a global bestseller, bringing complex scientific ideas to a wide audience.
- Legacy of inspiration: Stephen Hawking’s life story is one of perseverance and human spirit. His battle with ALS and his continued pursuit of scientific understanding continue to inspire people around the world.