Gossip Friday: Nothing to Remove
From October 1933:
You won’t be seeing Gable on the screen as frequently as in the past. Having had one breakdown, he’s determined not to have another and refuses to be overworked.
“I’ve had so many operations in the past few months I’m damned near afraid to look at myself for fear they’ve taken everything out,” he said. “I’m sure I can’t have any more operations because the doctors must have removed everything that was removable. I’m gaining weight and feeling much better now but it will be another three months before the doctor will let me golf or ride again.”
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Clark didn’t have a “breakdown,” which at that time was pretty much the blanket term for any kind of medical problem, but rather had his appendix removed and a severe blood infection caused by his rotting teeth. He had them all removed, had to heal for several weeks and then was fitted for full dentures.
2 Comments
Dan
I cannot imagine having teeth removed at such a young age and then having to deal with dentures- especially ones typical of the 1930s. He’s lucky he survived the blood infection which resulted from his issues. It’s lucky for us…
CocoB
Dentures in the 30’s were very well made. It’s incredible how well he spoke and well other things with dentures.
It is nothing short of a miracle that he survived the blood infection and it along with certain lifestyle choices ultimately contributed to his death.
Ironically, I had a look at this article while at the dentist. A tortuous 3 hour visit. Clark my friend I feel your pain.