Stephen Hawking turned 70 today but missed the commemoration of the event due to illness.
I for one was shocked to learn that he turned 70, as he doesn't look a day older than 68 from my perspective. That obviously was a sad attempt at humor, but there is a grain of truth to the 'joke'. I find it remarkable that Hawking is still with us and there is actually a bit of a political angle to his continuing presence on this mortal coil.
Follow me past the orange turd for my take on what Hawkings 70th says about modern politics.
Kossaks may recall during the great health care debate when some right wing moran declared that Dr. Hawking would not stand a chance in a socialized medical system such as that offered by Great Britain.
“People such as scientist Stephen Hawking wouldn’t have a chance in the U.K., where the National Health Service would say the life of this brilliant man, because of his physical handicaps, is essentially worthless.”
Hawking, who just so happens to be covered by the Britiish health care system, responded with a full throated (HAH! Imagine a very LOUD monotone robotic voice here...) defense of the British health system.
“I wouldn’t be here today if it were not for the N.H.S. I have received a large amount of high-quality treatment without which I would not have survived.”
So happy birthday Mr. Hawking. Thank you for a brilliant career and for standing for what you believe in.