The Story of Stephen Colbert’s Ruptured Appendix

[@jamesuthmann940]

"He's not hallucinating, he's always like that." Evie gets the best line in this episode.

[@lisakaz35]

I like the memorization of Kubla Khan, still.

[@rosemdhar4767]

❤❤❤❤

[@ConvincedIdiot]

Ya, you know when you are married to a drama queen, lol Its kind of the best way to deal with trauma though, if you can muster the strength... But of course Stephen and Evie would....

[@thing_under_the_stairs]

@@lisakaz35 It`s a fun poem to recite.

[@lisakaz35]

@@thing_under_the_stairs I was never good at memorizing poems. Yet I recognized it right away. And I laughed at how he did that "under the influence." I'm better at song lyrics.

[@RobertJohnson-bj5lk]

Can we all just state for the record how much we all love Evie. We’re very happy that you’re still with us Stephen Colbert.

[@nhokonhokopuala]

She is lovely ❤❤❤ and ty both for taking care of this silly, silly man❤❤

[@tiararoxeanne1318]

And she's one beautiful lady! Stephen is handsome too. I really want to know how their children look like.

[@chezmoi42]

@@tiararoxeanne1318 Easy, just google it.

[@peachesandpoets]

Her smile is sooo lovely. Aww

[@ShawnHartmann-ul2qk]

He definitely scored a win when she agreed to marry him.

[@jamlittlefield]

Can we thank Pablo for being so observant and caring? Colluding with Edie to get him to the hospital… good man.

[@garymussell6543]

I hope Pablo gets a nice bonus check this holiday season!

[@daniellerussomanno188]

❤ exactly!

[@imacg5]

Some observation from the future: he brought a vomiting bucket that day because of the pain (according to the band leader). So I think Colbert definitely downplayed how seriously ill he looked that day.

[@jenniferhanses]

Excellent and caring employee and possibly friend.

[@erikaporras4416]

That was a close call! Evie and Pablo saved your life that night. I'm really happy you're still here with us and glad to see you so well recovered. Take care Mr. Colbert.

[@TSIRKLAND]

I cannot imagine what Evie was going through, but so glad she insisted and colluded with Pablo to get him to the hospital. That must be scary as hell for a spouse to see their partner in a situation like that. Stephen always makes sure she gets plenty of love from the audience, but she deserves even more! I can just see Stephen reciting poetry to the doctors, and Evie reassuring them how he doesn't need drugs to do that; he does that naturally. Love you, Mr. Colbert!! Live long and prosper!

[@tpkyterooluebeck9224]

I nearly lost my sister because she insisted on waiting for parents to get home and talk with them first. It was the same issue - appendix.

[@Sharonmxg]

Stephen makes light of his situation but folks need to understand the fatality rate for people with burst appendix is not low. Intestinal contents emptying into the abdominal cavity is a serious, life threatening situation. I am deeply grateful to the doctors and nurses who took such good care of him.

[@CPAndy-x5x]

Sepsis and septic shock.

[@nancygodsey8312]

He's a very lucky man to be alive. It's not bravery, Stephen. It's stubbornness and foolishness.

[@telebubba5527]

@@nancygodsey8312 More like ignorance. You really don't know what's going on and think that it might pass with time as other stuff does. I've had the same thing, so I can relate.

[@SheilaRough]

When I was working at a long term psych residential facility, one of our residents came up to the desk complaining that he was really constipated and his belly hurt. Nurse listened for bowel sounds and couldn't hear any. He was sent to the ER to be checked out. They did an exploratory surgery to what was going on. The surgeons found that his appendix had burst and he was developing sepsis. He was in the ICU for several days and was left with a scar that kinda resembled the Grand Canyon.

[@JoshSweetvale]

When your body starts digesting itself... It's like a gas line bursting and catching fire. Not in you car or in your street. *In you, you fool!*

[@scottg.g.haller3291]

My dad had a burst appendix in his 40s while we were living in London (he was an academic researching Geoffrey Chaucer). He woke up in the morning barely able to stand, he was in so much pain. He eventually rode the bus to the hospital to get examined. Being from the U.S., the thought of calling an ambulance was scary because of how expensive it might be. But the U.K.'s National Health Service would have covered an ambulance; and did cover his exam, surgery, and hospital room for recovery -- even though we were guests for a year and not citizens. Dad's in his 90s now. Conservatives in the U.K. are doing their best to damage the beloved government program -- but in the 70s it saved my dad's life without forcing our family into bankruptcy.

[@freya8133]

Conservatives are a nuisance everywhere, aren't they? They've gotten absolutely unbearable here in the U.S.

[@theChickenstones]

Bless the NHS !!! Here in Australia the public health system is exactly that. Free for the health of the public. Get on board USA. Profiteering from illness is immoral.

[@lisadiane55]

In contrast to the U.K.'s system, I learned only yesterday, that when I sell my home, Medicaid will take the proceeds to reimburse itself for what was paid for medical expenses over the years. The richest country in the world.

[@cannablissdreams]

@lisadiane55 that's absolutely abhorrent.. my sincere hope is that the RIP MEDICAL BILLS charity finds your bills.. purchases your debt.. and then forgives them before the government can take your proceeds.. the US government is corrupt and we shouldn't lose our life's savings (when we pay taxes our whole lives) just to survive a healthcare situation.. (I'm in the same boat with my cancer treatments.. it sux so much)

[@braininjurydiy]

Yea except they do charge you for ambulance@@theChickenstones

[@lilibetmargaret]

Evie isn't letting her stubborn guy out of her sight!! Look at Evie standing stage-right ready to dive in if needed. I think this scared Evie and poor Pablo. There's nothing like a little wife-plus-beloved-driver collusion. Epic. A hearty and heart-felt virtual hug to Pablo. A hearty and heart-felt virtual hug to Evie. Good on ya both! ❤😅

[@_rrwwcox]

❤❤❤

[@sixpakshaker88]

Evie was the best part of COVID.

[@MonkeyJedi99]

When it comes to health, my brother is my Evie AND my Pablo. If I feel like maybe I should be in a hospital, I call him first and run the idea past him. The answer is almost always, "I'll be right over, put your shoes on." And after I'm better I get a nice Gibbs-smack for taking so long to recognize my own medical crises.

[@cierra0brooke]

I believe she is also an executive producer on the show 😊

[@patricksanders858]

​@@cierra0brookeno, but she is Executive Director of Spartina Production company, started by Stephan.

[@thorsenty]

Tuesday morning I started feeling abdominal pressure and pain that continued and worsened throughout the day. Because I had heard about Stephen's experience, I decided to go into the hospital to get it checked out. Sure enough. appendicitis. I was fortunate that it had not yet ruptured, and they were able to remove it without complication. Thank you for sharing. You made at least one person's life at least a little bit easier..

[@cw5451]

Glad you were smart about getting it checked out!

[@noonynoonynoo]

Yikes I'm glad they found it in time! Hope you are ok sir

[@rainbowtropolis]

The whole crowd chanting *EVIE! EVIE! EVIE!* She's the best wife of late night! We love you at our house Evie, from the greeting cards to the anniversaries, to the "I'll meet you at the hospital Steven." 💯

[@priscillamoore5736]

That *was* great when they were chanting that.

[@laalaa99stl]

Hooray for Stephen's driver listening to Evie instead of Stephen!

[@HH-gv8mx]

Ahhh this is just a reminder that it’s always good to have a witness in life. We are not meant to be isolated and alone.

[@waryaawariiri1812]

As a Canadian, I can just picture the average American going to ER for a major emergency surgery like this, and then staying for several days at the hospital. And then seeing specialists. The cost must have been...

[@KRJ893]

@@waryaawariiri1812 ...a great deal for the insurance company!

[@FynnOliverEmonSill]

@@HH-gv8mx but with the Internet we can be isolated (safe from people) and not alone..,.. It's very doable.

[@sandraandrews9907]

Just typical, the wife has more common sense than hubby. Then again, we can say that for women & men. 😊

[@junheceta268]

Ohhh, it is so lovely that Evie is in the studio wings keeping an eye on you. Man, you are extremely fortunate septicemia didn’t set in. I’m so overjoyed and relieved that you are recovered and well. Best wishes!

[@Viriatha]

Glad you're ok. Also, living proof that "brave" = "idiot" :P

[@Picklesnot-co3k]

💯‼️

[@nhokonhokopuala]

Ehehehehehehehehehehe

[@harrybruijs2614]

Right because Trump is also always very brave

[@thomasbayles8203]

​@@harrybruijs2614Trump's not brave, but he is an idiot.

[@hatfieldrick]

Yes, bravery and idiocy often do go hand in hand.

[@dianekoster559]

Mine burst and I was in the hospital for 19 days with a fever over 103. It’s NO JOKING MATTER. I’m glad you’re okay! Whew!

[@telebubba5527]

I've had it too, but they kicked me out of hospital as soon as I could go to the toilet (2 days). I was hopping mad, because I had no one at home to care for me.

[@queenannsrevenge100]

I have a family member who walked around with a ruptured appendix for three weeks - the emergency room doctor had misdiagnosed it and sent them home. They weren’t getting better so they went back and a second doctor saw the situation, and got them in to emergency surgery that day.

[@dianekoster559]

@@queenannsrevenge100 sounds like me! Only mine played out within the university’s health care system for students. The first doc gave me essentially “Tums”. I had finished half the bottle in 2 days so I went back. The next doc decided on a blood test and since it was going to take 3 hours or so, I went to a meeting off campus. I went back afterwards and with little fanfare, they dumped me in the waiting ambulance and I went to the city’s hospital. My appendix was 6 inches long, had grown up under my liver and had made a mess of my gut. I walked around after I left the hospital (19 days later) with a drain hanging out and I had to change my own dressing for at least another month!! The worst side-effect was I became massively lactose intolerant. No ice cream. Waaaaah! Honestly, there was a brief time they thought I was going to die, so I guess I involuntarily gave up ice cream to save my life.

[@LynnethAnn]

50 years ago my brother spent 6 weeks in the ICU after his burst. He was 14. He developed peritonitis, and abscesses ruptured his diaphragm, and he got abscesses on his lungs. His fever was so high he was hallucinating, they had him in between ice sheets. His heart rate was so fast that for a few days they wouldn't let my parents peak at him through the window. They were afraid if my brother saw him the excitement would kill him! Thankfully they finally identified the anaerobic bacteria causing the infection (apparently it had never been seen before??) and found an antibiotic that would kill it. He was so covered with scars from all the surgeries that he'd tell people that he was on fire and my Dad put him out with an axe, or that he was attacked by a shark, or that he got them in hand to hand combat in Vietnam (he was too young to be there! LOL) He's 63 now and still suffers the long term affects from the lung damage, adhesions, drugs, etc.

[@dianekoster559]

@@LynnethAnn Holy Moly and I thought I had it bad!! Love him while he’s still here. Just sayin’. ❤️❤️❤️

[@fwfulton]

As a Two Time inductee into the Dumb-ass Tough Guy Club, I would like to welcome you. I am sure you know most of our members were born Before 1970; back when boys were told to spit on it, rub some dirt on it, and walk it off. So glad to have you back.

[@ppleeatpple]

Ah yes, when the unmentioned fourth step often was either live with lasting (avoidable) damage or even death

[@JW-vd4il]

​@@ppleeatpple I was a little disappointed he did not encourage people to NOT be the "tough guy." I'm a woman but GenX so I can also be as Tough Guy as the men. 😂 But I am always encouraging people NOT to just struggle and wait. It's okay to ask for help! And sometimes life-saving or prolonging your life!!! Sure, sometimes I still try first to walk it off then have a cup of tea. 😁 But some of that mindset is -- LITERALLY! -- TOXIC! ❤

[@AnonyMous-pi9zm]

@@JW-vd4il I think the message came across. Being reduced to a snarling puddle in the backseat of your car, unable to make rational decisions, not ideal... Having an appendix actually burst and having to shop vac and pressure washer the remains when it could have been a simple snip snip operation? Not ideal... Losing 14 pounds because of something called "blood poisoning"? Not ideal... I've been there. I lost 12 pounds in a day after a GI illness, a snarling wreck. It was not something to be idealized. The message came across perfectly clear to me.

[@layercakearts]

GenX too and just released from the hospital for emergency appendectomy. When I walked into the ER they claimed it couldn’t be a ruptured appx because I WALKED in. 10hrs later, surgery at midnight for…. ruptured appx. Don’t mess with GenX.

[@JW-vd4il]

@@layercakearts Wowza! Glad you are okay! but you know I understand! Did you first try: walk it off. have a cup of tea. I did see doctors but those were the primary go-tos for any injury or ailment. 😂 Kinda nice it's made us tough but I have also had to make a little more noise when you realize they are not understanding you really need help because you are so calm. Take care of yourself! ❤️

[@missjuut]

Poor Steven, moral of the story:DO TELL PEOPLE HOW YOU FEEL! Dont hide it, dont act like you are okay, if you are not. Thats brave! ♥

[@Techydad]

That and listen to your body when it's telling you something is wrong. Too many people (and I'm guilty of this way too often as well) ignore it when their body is basically screaming "something isn't right here." My mother-in-law was having a heart attack a few years ago (during her birthday/retirement dinner) and refused to go to the hospital. We eventually threatened her that she could go to the hospital with my wife and father-in-law or we'd call 911 and make a huge scene of EMS crew wheeling her out. Thankfully, she gave in and was able to get the lifesaving open heart surgery and valve replacement that she needed. There are many times when "being brave" and "toughing it out" works. Medical issues are not those times, though!

[@birbluv9595]

Yeah, but I’ve had many people tell me to keep it to myself, to just shut up, and then it turned out to be something serious.

[@mattgies]

Yeah, I didn't like that he called himself "brave' for ignoring an illness that nearly killed him. You are correct about true bravery.

[@stoodmuffinpersonal3144]

I HAVE BEEN SAYING! lol. Not just men, but, especially men... "Don't be a wuss, just tough it out," NO! GO GET IT CHECKED OUT! THERE'S NOTHING WRONG WITH GETTING HELP IF YOU NEED IT! TELL PEOPLE!

[@stoodmuffinpersonal3144]

​@Techydad But like. I get it, if you don't have the insurance, or are poor, or can risk losing your job cause of lack of sick leave or things. But. I really do not think "toughing it out," is good, in general 😅

[@batgurrl]

Stephen and Evie together are like magic even when it’s for a few seconds. I am so happy she convinced Pablo to do the right thing to save his life❤️

[@elizabethhiebert1859]

with respect, Pablo KNEW Stephen NEEDED to go to the hospital, Pablo, Bless him, didn't need to be convinced. Stephen, Pablo's employer (meaning Pablo couldn't take Stephen to hospital without Stephen's consent) was the ONLY one who needed to be convinced. God. Bless Evie for knowing our wonderful Stephen so well, that she knew to give him a few extra moments to change his point of view and know that She & Pablo were 100% right. YEAH EVIE!!

[@warriorscholar41]

How have they not gotten a power couple name when Stevie is right there?

[@IdoZatTimeInaVan]

🤩🤩🤩

[@batgurrl]

@@elizabethhiebert1859 👍 YES

[@tinyjunglejoy2706]

PABLO the HERO

[@dantist06]

As someone who had an emergency operation due to a nearly burst appendix, I can confirm that the pain is off the charts. It is absolutely insane that Steven managed to do the show and even dance without screaming in agony or just fainting. What a beast.

[@dyent]

I had a slight pain for about 6 months. Turned out to be appendicitis. Doctor asks why I didn't come in, I'm just like "I'm already in worse pain than that every time I move, that barely felt like an itch to me"

[@AtariEric]

Yeah, same here. Fortunately I got in to the hospital before it burst, and whoever took it out was a genius because I felt almost no pain afterwards - didn't need the pain relievers they gave me.

[@realityjunky]

Same!

[@marelinem541]

Steven is a beast ... or a Fool for ignoring that so long.

[@Laura-kl7vi]

Not a beast. Men shouldn't glorify this macho behavior. It's usually men who are taught sadly to be stoic and ignore this agony. That's why Stephen is saying he was "brave". He was foolish. He would have robbed his wife of her beloved husband, his kids their father, let alone rob himself. You don't risk that.

[@melanies.6030]

We're all grateful to Evie, but we shouldn't forget Pablo...sounds like he was persistent, and must have even taken a minute to call Evie. Glad he did!

[@sharonhodges8589]

This is absolutely my story. My appendix burst when I was 15, unbeknownst to me. It was the worst pain imaginable, and yes, it is definitely life-threatening. Emergency surgery is really the only way to deal with it. Way to go Evie, and way to go, Stephen, for listening. Heal well! 🙏🏽

[@jimwind7589]

My neighbors kid had one and his mom thought he was just nothing. After about 8 hours he went to the ER and sure enough, he was not fakin it.

[@barbourgirl78]

Everybody's forgetting that his driver, Pablo, suggested taking him to the hospital first! It wasn't until his wife intervened, did he go. So, I say, thank you, Pablo, for seeing it and knowing something needed to be done.

[@sharonhodges8589]

@@barbourgirl78 so very true!

[@jomac841]

Same. I was 12. Spent hours in the ER only for my appendix to rupture. Emergency surgery, two weeks in the hospital, pneumonia. I was very lucky.

[@sharonhodges8589]

@@jomac841 wow. Sounds very familiar. Glad you made it through! 🙏🏽

[@seanmcdonald5859]

As an exnurse: yeah, that was stupid. Waking up in agony and going on with your day with a fever is just dumb. Please don't follow this example......GET TO A HOSPITAL IMMEDIATELY!! 😮

[@Abedeuss]

Last year around this time I had an aortic dissection. Survived, and few weeks later I hear from my then-not-yet-doctor-but-now-an-MD cousin about a woman just 3 years older than me who had similar symptoms but completely ignored her doctor telling her to go to the hospital... she died overnight, gasping for breath with her husband trying to resuscitate her. So yeah. Don't ignore fevers, terrible stomach or chest pains, shortness of breath... just go and see a doctor. And listen to them.

[@Mike-kc5ew]

Yeah, but the Americas healthcare system rather encourages that behavior, from costing significant time that it takes to see a doctor, to pretty much playing roulette on if the doctor you visit may potentially misdiagnose your condition, to the ordinary person of having to foot a significant bill that may not be life threatening. Even if you're pulling down Stephen Colbert money, there's still plenty of issues one would encounter by going to the doctor for every little thing. American healthcare could certainly be doing a much better job at addressing these issues.

[@clintmash245]

Yeah, that's a fair assessment. But at least for the privileged few, it's worth the trifle of trouble to stop by and say hi. The rest of us hope to recognize death's door before we get there.

[@cmdraftbrn]

unfortunately in this sick country of the usa. you are one trip to emergency from bankruptcy. and no one cares.

[@NicoleAZ145]

@@Abedeussyeah, resuscitation doesn’t help if you’re bleeding out. I had an aortic aneurysm and luckily got screened early due to family history. But the only physical symptom of that is extreme pain, so ignoring it will almost certainly guarantee death. People need to listen to their bodies.

[@sunrisediagnostika]

"He's not hallucinating, he's always like that!" LOL!! Love Evie and Stephen!

[@aninewforest]

I'm feeling surprisingly emotional hearing this. Blood poisoning is so often fatal. Reminds me of how we lost another genius, Jim Henson. He continued working in spite of pneumonia. By the time he did go to the E.R., it was too late. Scary to think we were minutes away from tragedy of similar proportion, if it hadn't been for Evie and Pablo's intervention.

[@BarbaraMatteau]

Yes so did I! 😢

[@pennymitchell8523]

Jim Henson was a.member of Church of Science who did not believe in medical intervention

[@Newton-Reuther]

My first thought was Rudolph Valentino. Im glad medicine has advanced so much since then.

[@aninewforest]

@@Newton-Reuther Yes, Valentino died aged 31. All three cases (Colbert, Henson, Valentino) happened in NYC.

[@dr.davidenglish778]

I thought Henson died because of pneumonia. It's been so long maybe I've forgot.

[@hurdygurdyguy1]

OMG! I burst into tears of joy when the light came up and there was Evie!! Oh yeah, and I’m glad Stephen didn’t die!! And let’s not forget his driver who suggested “I think I should take you to the hospital” …

[@MassageDiaries]

Amen 🙏 Pablo

[@cmconley33]

As an ER and Recovery nurse, I’m very glad to hear you recovered so well! And that you seem to have had some fun on the magic carpet ride that is well-performed anesthesia and recovery from anesthesia. Don’t worry: if no one explained it to you, the appendix doesn’t grow back-so you will never have appendicitis again.

[@luciamiller1555]

I’ve been working in healthcare for 30 years and I don’t know why this is a common trait, but men will often deny when they have a serious issue and luckily for them. The woman in their life often saves them by getting them to a specialist lol. I had a friend whose husband had unrelenting headaches for days and he refused to do anything about it and so without his knowledge, she made an appointment with a specialist and drove him to the appointment, and he had a very large brain tumor Near his brain stem. She literally saved his life. Stephen Colbert is a national treasure, and I personally have a hard time getting through the day without the late show with Stephen Colbert! Thank you Evie, thank you to the driver, and thank God, Stephan Colbert is still with us!❤🎉

[@cassienunes2173]

@luciamiller1555 my parents are the same way. 5 years ago my mom pretty much threatened my dad into going to see the doctor for his acid reflex. Turns out he had stage 4 esophagus cancer. 5 years in now and he's cancer free and thanks my mom for stealing his shop keys 😂 doctor said you better thank your wife once your done with surgery. They took out a massive tumor and he was in the hospital for a week. Mom kept him home for recovery and since he wasn't allowed to leave he just made her a garden in the backyard. She loved it and now he's back to work and goes to the doctor every 3 months

[@ThePipemiker]

I think indifference is a bit more evenly distributed amongst genders than you’d like to admit to. I definitely ignored my the pain from my acute appendicitis a little too long, and hid my suffering to well, but when I couldn’t take it anymore and woke up my dad and step mom to take me to the ER, my dad didn’t hesitate, but my stepmom was more skeptical.

[@badbiker666]

My wife has physically saved my life on more than one occasion in the nearly 40 years that we have been married. Because I am an idiot! Every day I find a reason to be grateful for her presence in my life. Those times were just a handful of many, many thousands of reasons.

[@kingace6186]

This is why women tend to live longer. Men will act like it will pass even if they are having a stroke.

[@kazuma7232]

I think it's because men are seen as weak for asking for help, including medical attention. We as a society need to do better and stop criticizing for trying to get help, saying "he's a pussy, or he's gay." Once we can do that, then maybe more men won't be as stubborn when they need help.

[@elstellick]

So very glad your appendix didn't kill your wonderful sense of humor and that you are back and healthy! We missed you Stephen! And thank you Evie for making him go to the hospital! ❤

[@Dollightful]

Oh my gosh! Poor Stephen's had quite the month. We all hope you're feeling better and getting enough rest.

[@lynnzerben]

It always makes me happy to my favorite KZbinrs is comments of other videos. I’m really glad Stephen is doing better, appendicitis is extremely painful

[@Amaiguri]

What a crossover😍

[@sovietmarshmallow1283]

the absolute jumpscare it was seeing dollightful of all youtubers here lmao

[@SemourKlitz]

It takes some kind of comedic genius like Stephen to weave a life-threatening event into an highly entertaining show. And on behalf of half the planet, we're all collectively happy you're still with us. GOD BLESS YOU!

[@HyperTeddyBear]

THIS. Stephen is one of those few guys who suffers a super painful life-threatening incident and turns that story into something entertaining for his audience.

[@katie-kb6qd]

it’s definitely horrifying knowing that blood poisoning and a burst appendix can be very fatal, but Evie and Pablo were truly the heroes of this story. glad he made a great recovery

[@betsysoutherland6069]

Stephen, if Evie tells you to go to the hospital, do not argue, just go! Glad you survived and had so much support.

[@mountednoble]

Only you could turn a story of almost dying into comedy gold! Glad you’re feeling good!

[@samanthadrennan]

So true

[@goldenpacificmedia]

Evie - Thanks for saving this man's life. He is the literal equivalent of Mark Twain for our time. It would be a really dull 11 PM timeslot if the triple IV antibiotics and high dose IV Schedule II pain narcotics didn't work. Mr. Colbert - In the future, could you please see your physician earlier in your course of illness instead of allowing your internal organs to rupture in your bid to fulfill the show business axiom of "the show must go on"? Perhaps Evie needs a high security briefcase with the backup host launch codes? Thanks for your sharing your story and get well!

[@justagirlsd3000]

Well said!

[@jefe2098]

It takes a real genius to stand there and talk about trump for an hour

[@jefe2098]

Fjb

[@jefe2098]

I want to thank trump without him I'd have nothing to talk about

[@autumbreeze1129]

Honestly, if I ever get married, I hope we have the kind of closeness you and Evie have, because you two are precious in so many ways

[@sethescope]

just remember that closeness like theirs doesn't happen by magic. it's the result of daily commitment to communicating openly and honestly (even when it scares you and even when it's hard), listening when your partner communicates without judgment and without taking it personally, and never shying away from expressing your love and your appreciation for your partner's choice to be part of your life. it doesn't happen by chance or by accident. whether it happens is entirely within your and your partner's control!

[@yiqingtan4079]

Im extremely grateful that Evie and Pablo got you to the hospital that night. Your experience in this is teaching me not to ignore these bodily pains and not to act on them too late... Am so relieved you're feeling better now ❤

[@marilynmurray3041]

Thank goodness for Evie and your driver. You stubborn man! So happy you were well taken care of and have recovered!

[@yudithcaron8053]

What more can I say? So happy you're alive and better!

[@nelsaf365]

The gift of a story to us from a man who knows how to tell it and laugh along with us. You are a beautiful soul, Mr. C. Thank you, Mrs. C for making the call!

[@deebraaslyn8923]

I will repeat the audience's chant, "Evie, Evie, Evie!" Always listen to your wife, Stephen. I know you were delirious with pain, but...the second thing is, always listen to your own body. My dad sent me to the "shake it off" school of pain, but there are some things you can not "shake off". I found that out with kidney stones. So glad you are okay. We need you

[@michaelrmurphy2734]

Yeah, don't take medical advice from Taylor Swift!

[@michaelrmurphy2734]

That should be the tradition. Whenever Evie is on, the audience chants E-VIE, E-VIE, E-VIE, E-VIE, E-VIE...

[@eloisesjohnson28]

Thanks Evie and Pablo for saving Stephen. So glad Stephen is still with us!

[@rhov-anion]

Evie quite literally saved your life, Stephen. I know you already love her to Heaven and back, but this is one more reason to give her all the love you can. Thank God that she is even more stubborn than you.

[@richardvazquez3637]

SC & Evie never cease to amaze me. What a treat to witness them genuinely gaze at each other like teenaged lovebirds!! SC is a REALLY special person.

[@reneelibby4885]

and so is Evie : )

[@gw60199]

SC really married up!

[@Buffykc62]

It's refreshing

[@Buffykc62]

@@gw60199 I think that they both are equivalent

[@michaelrmurphy2734]

And Evie too, of course!

[@cloud__99]

Evie at this point is as much of a national treasure as Stephen is 🥰 Thank goodness she and Pablo got through that stubborn head and got Stephen to the hospital. Crazy how well he held it together though, he seemed less enthusiastic than usual with Jose which I found odd but never suspected burst organ unenthusiastic lol. Truly a showman through and through. So good to have you back Stephen, you may be able to fill the hole of your appendix but there would’ve been no way to fill the hole you would’ve left! Listen to your wife next time would ya?

[@jazzfan7491]

What a little masterpiece of storytelling

[@NiDrew_Loverrr]

I am so glad he is alright. And Jesus Stephen, thank you and take better care of yourself! Thank you Evie for being the amazing human you are and an inspiration, both of you. And Stephen: The writing of this monologue and your excitement in it and the emotions and the fucking expert comedy are off the charts in this delivery. I’ve never felt so inspired and laughed so genuinely and purely. Thank you. Glad you’re alive.

[@tracy-annbennett1072]

He is correct. Pain that can kill you. They clean me up just like he said. Happy you are still here with us Mr. Colbert.😊

[@paulaswanson13]

Almost lost my son to a burst appendix so I can truly feel for your predicament. Glad you made it through and are back. The world needs the humor you provide. 👍🏻🥰

[@placeholderdoe]

Glad your son is okay

[@paulaswanson13]

@@placeholderdoe Thank you💖

[@blessedrthepoor9422]

My son had a burst appendix also. Soooo scary and dangerous.

[@placeholderdoe]

@@blessedrthepoor9422 I’m really sorry you and your son had to experience that. I hope he made a quick recovery

[@paulaswanson13]

@@placeholderdoe Ah unfortunately no. It took several months so unlike Stephen’s experience it was a long haul. He was only 12 at the time. Very very scary time.

[@scampjac]

We are so happy that you are okay. A burst appendix is no f-ing joke! You’re so lucky to have Evie. ❤️

[@earthn1447]

Mixed feelings - I was scared for you Steven, and I’m a little angry that you didnt listen to your own body and put yourself at risk. I’m also so grateful you’re ok. Evie not letting you out of her sight - tells me how bad it was for her. Blessings

[@JJ21210]

But he wasn't *in* her sight. She communicated with him and with Pablo (the driver) by telephone. Language is possibly our greatest tool, as well as an art form; please show your appreciation for it by using it with precision. Thanks.

[@paulaek6927]

@@JJ21210I believe this commenter was referring to the fact that she was standing offstage. Indicated by the precise use of “was”. Be kind.

[@AnimefortheLazyman]

oh i never even thought of that. That's why she didn't want to come out - she wasn't dressed up or in make up; she was just there to make sure he doesn't push himself because she knows HE won't stop himself.

[@smileeysface]

@paulaek6927 I read her reply two times thinking it had to be sarcasm/joking but sadly it was not.

[@RJM56]

@@JJ21210 geez, priorities.

[@funsize1477]

I didn’t realize you were gone, because I too had an emergency surgery that day on another useless organ, my gallbladder. Thankful you’re back, as I watch your show every night. Here’s to our swift recovery!

[@marjamerryflower]

The space that was left after the appendix was taken away, has been filled with love. This man is a saint❤

[@squishyshelli]

My son had a gangrenous appendix removed in May, just hours before bursting, and I can confirm that Stephen's description of what a severely infected appendix looks like is 100% accurate. Glad you're doing well now, Stephen!!

[@UlshaRS]

Really scary cause going to sleep could have been a final act.

[@lesleymaher6799]

This random American late show host just spent 7 minutes of his show talking about his burst appendix, and not only did I not think it was weird, my immediate response was 'Tell Me Everything!' This man, and his lovely wife, are a national treasure. Which nation? Yes.

[@tobrucow]

Why are they are a "national treasure" and not somebody else? All kinds of unnoticed people have grave medical emergencies every day.

[@juresichj]

​@@tobrucowBecause of the unconditional love they have for each other, and the way they share it with the rest of us. They have a platform that they have worked hard for, and they use it for good.

[@leannevandekew1996]

I had a ruptered appendix in the 3rd grade. My mother gave me pepto-pismal. I couldn't walk fast enough with the other students between classes. The last thing I remember was a handsome Black man from the cafeteria carrying me to hospital about 2 miles down the street.. He probably saved my life.

[@MimiYuYu]

If this were today - that handsome black man might have been arrested for kidnapping

[@CPAndy-x5x]

Your guardian angel!

[@Daniel-uj1nu]

“ he’s not hallucinating, he’s always like that” 😂😂😂 So glad you’re okay. The world would be a much darker place without you ❤❤❤

[@lesliefoster-michaud8418]

I was 10 years old with a ruptured appendix. No picnic in 1952. So happy cooler heads prevailed and got you to the hospital. Coulda been fatal and none wants that!

[@Dr.Maleficent]

SOOOO glad Ms. Evie had the presence of mind and intuition to ignore what you said, Stephen, my brother. You're here because of it. We love you and thank ALL the medical staff at St. Barnabas -- from the doctors to the housekeepers who cared for you -- for helping in your recovery. Thank the gods, you're better. Welcome back. The world, and indeed, my world, are better with you in them. All Love, Peace, & Continued Healing. -Dr. Morticia P.S. And yes, when you are in THAT level of pain, I can agree from experience, that Dilaudid is a gift. ☮☯🕉 🖤❣🖤

[@paulweston2267]

In 2005, I had the same thing happen. I went to the clinic and my normal doctor was out. I saw a very good Indian doctor whose bedside manner was a bit lacking, but effective. "You have operation today, or you die." It got the point across.

[@teelo12000]

Sounds familiar! 2013, in Malaysia, I went to the hospital cause something was wrong with my eye. The doctor said "You have surgery or you go blind". Nobody in the country could do something that complicated though so my travel insurance put me on a flight to Australia to get it done.

[@LindaC616]

But did his voice sound happy when he said it?

[@paulweston2267]

I cannot say if it was happy. He spoke good English with a very thick Punjabi accent, so you can guess the tenor.

[@esperanzaarce9563]

Same with my dad's vascular surgeon. 😅 Tall, thin Russian he'd been treating him for years for PAD, circulation problems since he was diabetic he had to take extra care. So long story short, he said diet and walk or the leg comes off. That got the point across and he did exactly everything he told him to. 🤭

[@bryndabaker6782]

There's a lot to be said for directness!

[@eweiner14]

This was one of the most hilarious pieces of writing I’ve ever heard. Also very scary - please take care of yourself Mr. Colbert, you are a national treasure.

[@donnaryan71]

You're not the only one who got a benefit from appendicitis. So I'd like to thank my appendix for becoming sick, inflamed and ready to burst, too. Because losing it meant I also lost an appendix hyperplastic polyp that no one knew I had, and wouldn't have known until it had spread to other organs and was too late. Never been so grateful to have had a serious illness. It prevented an even bigger one. Glad you are ok, SC.

[@sammygirl6910]

Same here. Goblet cell carcinoma. My appendix saved my life.

[@LindaB651]

Glad you're still here to tell the tale, also, glad you're wise enough to listen to Evie's advice! Love you both!

[@bonita1228]

SO, then, We owe it all to Pablo who went behind your back to call Evie TWICE. THANKS for having common sense Pablo!

[@CatyBee]

THE REAL HERO!

[@Kaotiqua]

You ARE brave. But it's often been observed that bravery and stupidity frequently go hand in hand. SO GLAD we didn't lose you, Stephen!

[@hemacdonald400]

How on earth did you manage doing anything in that amount of pain? I had a similar situation, my appendix was about to blow but had it removed in the nick of time. When they gave me Oxycodone in the hospital it immediately turned in to the Hilton and all was good. Still shaking my head at how you could do those shows. Thank god for Evie.

[@McCarthyJohn100]

I was wondering the same thing. Having appendicitis was the worst pain I've experienced in my life and mine didn't burst. I laid on my floor all night in the fetal position after an advice nurse told me it was probably just gas.

[@radhikanandasw.6342]

Unbelievable that he managed a program while in such intense pain!! I believe he is a Saint, and so is Evie. Such love is there! Thank you, Stephen. Thank you, Evie! 🙏🏽💗💗🙏🏽

[@amydavis4945]

I had no idea this even happened! I'm so glad that you are okay, Stephen... and thank you thank you thank you to Pablo and Evie!! Burst Appendix is nothing to play around with - I know from firsthand experience. The pain is incredible and my mouth literally dropped open when you showed the clip of dancing with David. I just can't imagine how that must have been. Evie is so amazing and you two are very lucky to have each other! I hope you continue to recover, Stephen!

[@jennywitkop8467]

I am so glad you are feeling better. You were missed,! I commend Evie for putting her foot down and making you go to the hospital. Love you fella, welcome back and your monologue was spot on tonight!!!

[@JesseEngelGuitar]

My appendix burst when I was 13 (27 years ago) and it is still the most painful and scary thing I've ever been through. The pain is no joke, they gave me morphine too and took several days in intensive care to recover. I can't imagine what it would be like to have to host a show while experiencing that. So glad they caught it when they did, he must have been very close to being too late. ❤ Stephen

[@amiyabernal2171]

As a survivor of a ruptured appendix myself I am amazed by your recovery. You are incredible and your presence is such a blessing that it is not surprise to me that a bunch of non human angels might have also held you alive through the pain and the ordeal altogether. Thank you so much Stephen Colbert for coming back.

[@MTagano]

My goodness, what a wonderful story-teller. And, human - so grateful you made it through!

[@jonnaphillips7124]

Thank the lord we still have Stephen ❤❤❤❤

[@Michaela1942]

So happy that you have recovered so well. You're very much needed.

[@annm4833]

Yes he is! And so is Evie! ❤

[@kathyzalewski8492]

Glad you’re alive Stephen. ❤

[@Shadoweclipse1386]

Glad you're doing well Stephen! We missed you last week ❤ Evie is an angel for watching out for you!! Thank you Evie

[@LynnethAnn]

He is SO fortunate! 50 years ago my brother, 14 at the time, had a ruptured appendix. He got peritonitis and spent 6 WEEKS in the ICU! His fever was so high, and heart rate so fast, that for a few days they wouldn't let my parents look at him through the window. They were afraid if he got excited it would kill him! They finally identified the anaerobic bacteria causing the infection, and found an antibiotic to kill it. He had abscesses on his left lung, they had to do surgery and peel the abscess off. He had several tubes draining his abdomen. They finally taught my mom how to change his bandages, just so my brother could go home. Our insurance company told my mom they had never seen such a high bill! My brother is now 64, but has had lung and other issues because of it. (BTW, the doctors wrote a paper for a medical journal about the experience.)

[@thesilentangel8299]

What is that paper? So I can read it. 😮😮

[@tripodthreefoot2268]

"The Appendix Turn Around and Said, I Bet You I Can Kill This Guy" 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@kristymoran1608]

So glad the people who know him best and care for him most stepped in to get him the care he needed when they did and that all is well. Take care Stephen as you continue to heal. It's good to have you back. ❤

[@pamelachilimpis]

I’m so happy for you, and thankful for Evie and Pablo and the doctors and nurses who brought you and your sense of humor back to us. ❤️🙏🏻

[@TheClairemyst]

I too was septic. My body went boom... I really felt his pain. Literally. There is a terror when all you do is throw up and feel pain out of nowhere. Glad they didnt listen to him n took him to the hospital. I had wondered why he was off air. The one part of the body that really serves no purpose but can destroy you by leaving.

[@Dancin9lady]

My friend's appendix burst while he was hiking in the woods with his son, miles from a road. His son luckily had great phone service and just enough bars to call 911, and they rushed him by helicopter to a hospital. He almost didn't make it but I'm so glad he's still with us. Glad you're still with us too, Steven!

[@Jean-tt6on]

Thank you Pablo too!!! Give that man a raise!

[@y_fam_goeglyd]

As someone who still has (after 40 years) a 4" x ½" scar from a _nearly_ burst appendix, Stephen has my utmost sympathy! (The surgeon was so proud of it 😂. He came round the next morning and told me he was keeping it in a jar because he'd never seen one so big 🤣 Doctors are insane!) Seriously, that would have been off the charts painful. I'd rather go through labour again, without anaesthetic, and my back is screwed up! So glad he's ok.

[@jeffs6090]

He was lying/joking because technically he can not keep it. You, as the patient, can't even take your own specimens. It goes into a cup with formalin to the pathologist and no one ever sees it again.

[@PrincessofErised]

Same here when I was 10, only mine burst. I didn't know then, but I know now how close to death I was.

[@freya8133]

Yeah, mine ruptured when they put it in the pan! Close call!! May 1981....

[@JadeValour]

I’ve still got that 4” scar after 50 years from my already oozing appendix - and I haven’t forgotten the days of pain before it was finally diagnosed! Glad you’re still with us, Stephen!

[@sueyourself5413]

@@jeffs6090 That was back in the day. He no doubt sold it as a culinary delicacy to a multi millionaire (today would be a billionaire).

[@RogerGoodeNH]

Thank God you are back and you’re healthy! You were sorely missed…

[@samanthadrennan]

Thank God he came through this. Can you imagine how awful would have been if we had lost Stephen?

[@firstnamelastname9918]

That's a pretty selfish thought -- the exact same one I had though! 😁

[@Buffykc62]

Oh God I would be devastated. Luv me some Stephen Colbert

[@michaelrmurphy2734]

Don't say things like that!

[@AnimefortheLazyman]

And I thought there was no way we could love Evie even more...she went and saved Stephen's life (as well as his driver) by being the responsible partner

[@mysteryachiever]

Can’t even 😮

[@ASMR4calmmoods]

So glad you made it through, Stephen! And thank you, Evie and Pablo!

[@lawrenceeverett9661]

Evie is the ABSOLUTE BEST. God bless you, Evie. And God bless Stephen and your entire family.

[@jessmac1893]

I’m so glad you’re still with us and that you were surrounded by people who love you, took you to the hospital, and cared for you. One of the best humans of all time.

[@mdansbyjr]

A moment of love for Pablo! You should TOTALLY interview him on what an epic chauffeur is ... cuz he is one!!! 😍😍😍

[@leeneil5775]

They caught mine before it burst, but I definitely remember the pain, vomiting, high fever, and chills! Take it easy Stephen, it takes time to fully recover! Love the way Evie is there to keep an eye on him!

[@kitskivich]

Oooof! Poor Stephen. And thank heavens for Evie and Pablo! They quietly conspired to save a life. Peritonitis nearly killed me after the doctors cleaned me up from an only partially ruptured appendix. I was 11 and stunned to see my father in tears - and no, he's not the affectionate, demonstrative type, so it was quite surprising. I came through it well after all and I'm sending loads of healing mojo to Steven as he continues to heal. He needs to take it easy and listen to his body for a while yet. No dancing with chefs for a while longer either.

[@jackl4laughs]

Happy you're doing better, and I hope we get many more years of this incredible show. God bless to the whole crew and Colbert family.

[@freya8133]

So glad you're back and well Steve! I had mine out when I was 13. I felt like death warmed over, I can't imagine how horrible you must have felt. Thank God for Evie making you go to the emergency room!!

[@sunshineandshadow4560]

What an experience! So happy you're better!!

[@annroberts7935]

I can't even imagine life without your humor Stephen. So glad you survived something that often is unsurvivable. A bad appendix is one thing but in adults a ruptured appendix often kills

[@anncata7368]

Burst ulcers too!!

[@paulgross2723]

This is a wonderfully touching piece. I've been a family physician for over thirty years, and what Stephen's story brings home to me is the power of denial--how even a smart person (and I consider Stephen Colbert to be incredibly smart) can be incredibly dumb when confronted with their own personal crisis. To have agonizing abdominal pain and fever and not go to an emergency room--how dopey is that? And yet, at that critical moment, our emotions--and men, I'm talking Lone Ranger, I-can-power-through-this kind of emotions (that, to be clear, I am perfectly capable of myself)--override our rational minds, and instead of saying, "Help me!" we come out with, "Just take me home," even when we're in deep, deep trouble. I'm so grateful that Stephen Colbert is still with us. It takes a village to save our hero from himself--and to save us from ourselves.

[@thesilentangel8299]

This time the village consisted of his wife Evie and his driver Pablo being more stubborn than Stephen is.

[@lafiii215]

My grandfather, the congressman, died of a burst appendix, so I am very very thankful for Evie. I cannot imagine a world without Stephen in it.

[@richardl6188]

I had a similar experience with my gallbladder. One night, I was having pain in my chest, and I thought it was just heartburn. I took some Pepcid, but after 12 hours and throwing up a couple of times, the pain wouldn't go away and my wife took me to the hospital. The doctors at Emory Hospital said I had gallstones and my gallbladder had gotten infected. On the eve of the 2020 elections, they gave me a really strong anesthetic (probably morphine) and operated on me. Just before they put me out, Trump was ahead in votes, so I gave a prayer to God for a successful operation and for Him to help Biden win. After the operation, I woke up giddy and hallucinating that Biden was winning! Fortunately, it turned out I wasn't hallucinating, and it was true! Praise the Lord for watching over me and you, Steve! Keep doing what you do!

[@zbeebs]

Wait, it took them like a week to call that election, how long were you out?

[@richardl6188]

@@zbeebs Good point! I was out for 2 days in the ICU, but when I woke up, the tide had already turned in favor of President Biden! It took me another day to get over the hallucinating effects of the drug they gave me, and I eventually got discharged after 7 days!

[@alphabrainwave]

I am grateful that Stephen Colbert is in good health and good spirits today. Let history show that he literally worked his ass off for America.

[@IntrepidInkweaver]

Thank you for not dying, Stephen!! We would have missed you a whole lot. Glad you're feeling better!!

[@11cabadger]

So happy you're alive and, may I say, in fine form. Great monologue. Fine dancing and seeing Evie was terrific. My gall bladder almost exploded; I've had kidney stones and recently fractured my ankle in three places. I cannot imagine the pain you were in doing those two shows! Major props to you, Mr. Colbert.

[@rrcmjp22]

Thanks to Pablo and Evie for making him go. They saved his life.