About Steven Petrow

Personal Health Struggles and Resilience

Steven Petrow's writing frequently centers on his cancer diagnosis at age 26, reflecting four decades later on the hope it offers others.[11] He recounts reversing roles with his mother during illness, becoming her 'travel guide' in the 'country of illness.'[8] His books and essays emphasize drawing strength from such hardships.

Aging and Avoiding Mistakes

Petrow is determined to sidestep the 'aging mistakes' his parents made, listing 'stupid things' he won't do when old, a theme in his book Stupid Things I Won't Do When I Get Old.[2][5][15] He reflects on celebrating accomplishments amid ambivalence about aging.[3]

Finding Joy in Adversity

A core motif is discovering joy during life's hardest moments, as in his book The Joy You Make: Find The Silver Linings—Even On Your Darkest Day.[4][7][10] He shares rules for healthy living[13] and stories like Tatiana Schlossberg's lessons on life facing death.[14]

LGBTQ+ Identity and Pride

As a gay man, Petrow marks milestones like the 10-year Obergefell ruling anniversary with his husband[6] and his late embrace of flying a pride flag.[12]

Health, Civility, and Broader Topics

His journalism covers health/biotech, data/analytics, and civility, seen in Washington Post columns and New York Times Well blog.[9] Topics include BAFTAs incident[1] and reading's joy.[7]