The Untold Story of Steve Jobs' Refusal of Tim Cook's Liver Donation

Avery Emberly

Updated Sunday, October 20, 2024 at 5:00 AM CDT

In a fascinating revelation from the depths of Reddit's "r/todayilearned" subreddit, a post by user u/CoolGuess sheds light on an intriguing moment in tech history involving Apple co-founder Steve Jobs and current CEO Tim Cook. The post, which has sparked lively discussion and debate, details how in 2009, Tim Cook offered to donate a portion of his liver to Steve Jobs. This generous offer was possible due to the rare blood type that both shared, allowing for a potentially life-saving transplant that could regenerate tissue after the operation.

However, in a dramatic and somewhat characteristic fashion, Jobs adamantly refused Cook's offer, reportedly exclaiming, "I'll never let you do that. I'll never do that." This moment has since been interpreted in various ways, with some seeing it as a testament to Jobs' pride and independence, while others view it as a missed opportunity that could have prolonged his life.

The Reddit post has garnered significant attention, with commenters reflecting on Jobs' controversial legacy. One user, XrosRoadKiller, highlighted the irony in Jobs' decision with a witty remark, "He died as he lived... Unwilling to allow 3rd party Integration," which resonated with the community, earning 237 likes and two awards.

The discussion brings back memories of Jobs' battle with pancreatic cancer and his decision-making process regarding medical treatments. Many users expressed frustration over Jobs' initial reluctance to embrace conventional medical techniques, a choice that some argue led to his premature passing. Commenters recalled his eventual regret and the sense of lost opportunity, noting how even brilliant minds can sometimes make bewildering choices.

Beyond the liver donation story, the comment section delved into broader critiques of Jobs' personality and business practices. Some users reflected on his impact on the tech industry and personal relationships, citing Steve Wozniak as a more deserving figure for celebration due to his contributions and character.

This story serves as a reminder of the complex nature of legacy and the multifaceted personas of influential figures like Steve Jobs. While his technological innovations and vision continue to shape the world, discussions like these provide a more nuanced understanding of the man behind the iconic brand.

Whether seen as a tale of hubris or a testament to personal resolve, the story of Tim Cook's unaccepted liver donation offer remains a poignant chapter in the annals of tech history.

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View source: Imgur

Top Comments from Imgur

BallsLikeWatermelonsP*****LikeAThimble

Jobs would still be alive if he’d embraced standard medical techniques when he was first diagnosed. Death by stupidity.

PrincessLeliana

My fav part of steve jobs is when he crossed the point of no return he regretted EVERYTHING and wished he had actually gotten help

Fyreworx

Finally succumbing to his terminal case of ligma.

plinkey

Didn't he have pancreatic cancer?

Maverickaura

whats dumber is that a liver donation isn't like any other organ donation. your liver can regenerate. six months after the surgery cook would have had a fully intact liver again and suffered almost zero permanent repercussions. the reason its almost zero is because he wouldn't be able to donate part of his liver a second time, which is still one repercussion. (it doesnt grow back exactly the same way it used to be. it will be fully functional but a second regeneration wouldn't work.)

BigRobbo

Yea, for all we worship at the shrine of Apple it's worth noting that Steve Jobs was acomplete idiot in a LOT of ways. He also is a big part of the reason that Apple products are not seen as gaming platforms... because he hated them.

laserfork

Wild how all these billionaires turn out to be such insane morons.

GlenL

"I don't trust medical science, I think I'll just die" -Steve Jobs

Vamp13

It always surprises me with how stupid smart people can be.

TrippedAndMemed

Later- 'Thank god I didn't give that idiot part of my liver.'

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