2020 has claimed the lives of too many artists, actors, and other celebrities. Last weekend, Chadwick Boseman, notorious for his role as the Black Panther, passed away in his home surrounded by his wife and kids. Boseman had been battling stubborn colon cancer for over 4 years, and after his stage 3 diagnosis in 2016, it then quickly progressed to stage 4. Boseman and his family kept his diagnosis a total secret from the media and outside world. What’s more impressive is that, in between surgeries and chemotherapy, Boseman continued filming multiple roles after his diagnosis. During his battle with cancer, he amazingly portrayed roles in Black Panther and 6 other hit films. Prior to his diagnosis, he made history and his career with his role as Jackie Robinson in 42. Not only was he an amazing actor, but he was an equally good person and philanthropist.
Boseman was also well known for his contributions and efforts in supporting children battling cancer. In 2018, he visited St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital in Tennessee, where he bonded with many young, terminally ill children. Unbeknownst to us all, he had the strength to support others fighting the same battles he secretly fought on a daily basis. News of his passing spread like wildfire, and his loss has been deeply felt by many. In fact, the Tweet announcing his passing is now the most liked Tweet ever. Even at 43, the works that he left behind still don’t feel like enough, as he still had so much more to give. On top of his career, Boseman’s character and philanthropy established himself as a role model for many, and hopefully, we can try to emulate his strength and kindness by uplifting others regardless of our own personal hardships.
Lastly, I think Boseman’s recent years serve as a great example of “mind over matter,” that you really can do anything you set your mind to. For Chadwick, he was diagnosed with debilitating colon cancer, but he pushed through and successfully filmed multiple movies while keeping himself healthy enough to play these roles, even during chemo. For us, his life should serve as motivation, as an example, that we can achieve our goals and dreams by setting our minds to it. So, what will you set your mind towards, and how will you achieve it?
It almost felt surreal when I heard the news of his passing. He seemed invulnerable as Black Panther, now one of the biggest superheroes in the world. He left behind a great legacy, however, which we can look back on and learn from.
ReplyDeleteIts actually crazy that he died. The whole story is so sad. Making movies while he had cancer just to inspire others is an impressive feat. I'm sure we would all aspire to live a life as great as him.
ReplyDelete