RIP Steven Wells, Philadelphia Weekly journalist

I read Steven Wells’ article The English Patient many months ago and found it both hilarious and exceptionally depressing at the same time. It was a very personal tale of the complete inadequacies of the Philadelphia hospital system, and instantly convinced me to never, ever, get sick in the USA.

I had pretty much forgotten about that article until I saw on Warren Ellis’s blog today that Steven Wells had passed away, finally succumbing to the cancer that had made his last years so hellish. I went back to the Philadelphia Weekly site and re-read the article – and the two follow-ups – once again shocked by Steven’s honesty, candidness, and ability to admit his fears and failings in the face of death.

Then on Thurs., Jan. 29, 2009, I got a phone call from my gastroenterologist. He told me I’ve got a cancer called enteropathy-associated T-cell lymphoma— which only afflicts a small percentage of the small percentage of people who develop celiac disease. And as cancers go, it’s a bastard.

Anyhoo. I put the phone down and let out a huge, self-pitying “Why me?” The answer, of course, is the same as the answer to Travis’ shit-awful 1999 international breakthrough hit, “Why Does It Always Rain on Me?” Because you’re a fucking dick. Now shut the fuck up and grow a pair.

Linked for your convenience: Steven Wells’ final articles on cancer, health care, and accepting the end. RIP Steven Wells – the world will miss you.

The English Patient

Cell Out

His Final Column