What Disease Did Stephen Hawking Have?
Stephen Hawking, one of the most brilliant minds of the 20th and 21st centuries, captivated the world not only with his revolutionary insights into physics but also with his resilience in the face of a debilitating disease. Despite being diagnosed with a rare and life-limiting illness in his early 20s, Hawking defied odds by living for over 50 years, during which he produced groundbreaking work in cosmology, authored popular science books, and inspired millions worldwide. His journey was extraordinary not only for his scientific achievements but for how he managed to thrive despite severe physical limitations. This article explores the disease that affected Stephen Hawking, known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), or Lou Gehrig’s disease. We’ll cover its causes, symptoms, progression, and how it impacted Hawking’s life and work. Understanding ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, commonly known as ALS, is a rare neurological disease that primarily impacts the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscles (motor neurons). ALS belongs to a broader class of disorders known as motor neuron diseases. The progressive degeneration of motor neurons in ALS results in the loss of muscle control, which affects the ability to speak, move, eat, and breathe. 1. What Causes … Read more