Augustus's Recurrence and Decline

Augustus's cancer returns aggressively, leading to his physical and emotional deterioration, and his struggle to find meaning in his final days.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The PET Scan Results

The PET Scan Results The Secret Augustus had a PET scan before Amsterdam that showed his cancer had returned and spread. He kept it from Hazel to enjoy the trip. The Confession In Amsterdam, he tells Hazel. He says he lit up like a Christmas tree. He is terminal. The Civil War He describes his cancer as a civil war with a predetermined winner. He feels robbed of a heroic death.

Palliative Chemo

Palliative Chemo The Treatment Augustus starts palliative chemotherapy. He has a PICC line. He is often nauseous and tired. The Wheelchair He uses a wheelchair. He loses weight. His hair thins. He is in constant pain. The G-Tube He gets a G-tube for nutrition. He hates it. He feels humiliated. He says his last shred of dignity is very small.

The Gas Station Breakdown

The Gas Station Breakdown The Escape Augustus sneaks out to buy cigarettes. His G-tube malfunctions. He ends up at a gas station, covered in vomit. The Call He calls Hazel. She finds him in agony. He is crying and screaming. He says he hates himself. The Ambulance Hazel calls 911. She recites a poem. He loses consciousness. This is his lowest point.

Death

Death The Final Days Augustus is in the ICU. He is unconscious for long periods. His family is with him. The Call Hazel receives the call at 3:30 AM. She is devastated. She calls Isaac. The Aftermath Hazel grieves. She attends the funeral. She finds his letter to Van Houten. She reads his words and feels his love.

Before Amsterdam, but revealed during the trip

After Amsterdam

About a week before his death

Eight days after the gas station incident