One of many creators behind Doom and one of many lead builders directing the franchise at this time replied to a terminally in poor health fan’s touching put up about how he’s spending his closing weeks alive enjoying Doom Everlasting on a PS5 in a hospital room.
On January 31, Wanderingrader123 posted a sad but powerful story to Reddit explaining that he has been battling Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma most cancers since 2022. Nonetheless, his scenario hasn’t improved, and docs say he probably solely has weeks to dwell. The Toronto hospital he’s in supplied to satisfy any request he had throughout his remaining time, and he requested should you may play 2025’s Doom: The Dark Ages, saying he’s been a fan of the collection since 2016, and the reboot and sequel, Doom Everlasting, have helped him by way of some “tough times.” Nonetheless, on account of “financial issues” he has been unable to play by way of Darkish Ages. Fortunately, the hospital obtained him a PS5 and a duplicate of the sport, and he’s at present ripping and tearing his manner by way of it.
“I may not live to see the upcoming DLC, but I am nonetheless happy to finally play the game in my own hands,” stated Wanderingrader123. “To the developers of ID Software, thank you for bringing such a beautiful piece of art that not only brought the FPS genre to its roots, but also revitalize and reinvented the wheel that no other game could. Not only that, but thank you for crafting such an awesome series for a fan like me.”
His put up and story caught the eye of id recreation director Hugo Martin, who has served because the lead developer on the latest Doom video games, together with Darkish Ages.
“Thank you so much for your support and know that all of id salutes you brother,” replied Martin on Reddit. “I tell the team all the time, people care about our games, we have to put the same amount of care into making them. It has been the honor of our professional lives making these past three games for fans like you. To make the Slayer feel STRONG in DOOM, we infuse him with all the attributes of a true old school hero: we give him strength, courage and heart… we make him like you. RIP AND TEAR, my friend. You are the real Slayer.”
Wanderingrader123’s bittersweet put up additionally caught the eye of John Romero himself, one of many authentic builders who helped create Doom and id Software program again within the Nineties.
“I am so moved and honored that you carried DOOM with you for a decade and chose to live in DOOM as your journey nears its end,” posted Romero. “You are the definition of bravery and courage. You are the reason DOOM exists.”
“When we made DOOM, we wanted to create a world where you felt powerful even in the face of overwhelming odds. Knowing that it has been a companion to you, something familiar, something steady, something alive, means more to me than I can properly put into words. You are not alone in that hospital room. You are standing in a place millions of us have stood, fighting. Every enemy, every level, every moment matters because you do. Thank you for sharing this part of your life with us. Thank you for bringing DOOM with you. Rip and tear—with love and respect.”
Past these Doom devs, the broader Doom group replied to Wanderingrader123’s put up, sharing phrases of encouragement and commending the poster for his bravery. The outpouring of affection and help led to Wanderingrader123 responding. Right here’s his full reply:
“I want to thank you all for the kind support you have given over in the past 24 hours. I’ll admit, I was very hesitant and reluctant even to make such a post due to the nature of my condition. No amount of words can describe the overwhelming kindness you have given me since I posted. Not only from the fans but to also the developers as well. I have recieved massive amounts of DMs, which I am incredibly grateful of, though, I won’t be able to get through most. Still, I am grateful nonetheless. It is an extreme privilege to be in a welcoming community such as r/Doom and be able to share this post. I am currently having a blast beating up demons with the flail.”
“And for people wondering, I am actually in the Toronto General Hospital in Downtown, Toronto, Ontario. But for the sake of both my privacy and my family, I will not divulge my location further than that. Please and thank you for respecting my privacy, as well as the massive support. I will use the time that I have left to not only enjoy myself but to also spend time with my family and friends. Thank you again, everyone!”
