Elvis: Destined To Die Young

by Sally A. Hoedel

Destined to Die Young is the definitive examination of why the world lost Elvis Presley on August 16, 1977, when he was only forty-two years old. Author Sally Hoedel has painstakingly researched the subject and offers factual and scientific data—plus never-before-published information she gained by interviewing people who personally knew Elvis—to support her claim that Elvis Presley was never going to live a long life. In this well-documented book, Hoedel explores how prescription medication was only one aspect of his compromised health and did not ultimately cause his demise. She examines Elvis Presley—a son, husband, father, and devoted friend—while ploughing through the negative hype and legendary myths surrounding the man. Elvis’ downward spiral of health struggles is presented and, for the first time ever, it is revealed that he suffered from disease in nine of eleven bodily systems, five of which were present from birth. This book dispels the long-held theory that abuse of prescription drugs is what killed Elvis. Destined to Die Young is for anyone who is curious to know the true story of one of the world’s most famous cultural icons. For longtime Elvis Presley fans, it provides answers to lingering questions surrounding his death. You may be surprised to learn that, based on Elvis Presley’s family history and the genes he was dealt, nothing could have saved the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
Hard copies of book available at ElvisAuthor.com.

Genres: Biography, Nonfiction, Music

437 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2020

Reviews

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Sally A. Hoedel asks us to "forget everything [we] have heard about Elvis Presley in the decades since August 16, 1977. " In reading this "labour of love" we do just that. Sally has done great credit to Elvis, his fans and herself in the writing of this book. Elvis: Destined To Die Young is an incredible, brilliant read because for the first time someone, an author, has put aside any personal desire for fame or wealth in writing about Elvis Presley, and looks at the human being, the man rather than the image. Sally's research and evidence in support of Elvis's ongoing health issues, many of them being genetic and present from birth is meticulous. Here she finally and believably explains why Elvis had to medicate himself so much and completely dispells the image of Elvis as a drug addict. With her book, Sally now ensures that Elvis will be remembered for what he truly was, an amazing performer and person. This author has given us a very clear and intimate look at Elvis the man, the son, the father, the husband, the friend and the provider. As a huge Elvis fan, I feel that Sally has done what no other author has quite managed to do and that is protect Elvis's legacy and tell the real story behind this amazing man without sensationalism, personal gain or any kind of agenda at all. Sally has done this successfully but more importantly she has been able to back up every claim, every finding with unquestionable evidence. For that I am truly grateful to her and wish her every success. I am so glad this book crossed my path. I am forever changed by reading it. I certainly did not want to finish it. Reading Sally's final words in the Acknowledgements brought a tear to my eye and not for the first time reading this book. All I can say is that a five star rating is not nearly enough for this amazing book. Elvis would be proud, Sally, and finally we can all see him and understand him as he deserves to be seen. He gave so much of himself and now finally someone has done him the great honour of taking away his "tainted" legacy and replacing it with the truth. If you must read a book on Elvis Presley it must be this one. Elvis himself said, "Truth is like the sun. You can shut it out for a time, but it ain't goin' away." With this book Sally A. Hoedel, has proven that. Finally all I can say is bravo Sally and thank you from all of us Elvis fans that always believed in him. With your book you have ensured that generations and fans to come look at Elvis in a completely different way...a positive way, not taking away any of his splendour, generosity and goodness. I can say so many more wonderful things about this book and this great man, but don't just take my word for it as to how great it is, do yourselves a favour and read it. You won't regret it.

[James H Worthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The most informative book on Elvis that I've ever read! A must read for any true Elvis fan!

[Candace Worrell · Rating 1 out of 5]

While I was reading this, I thought, “Wow, this sounds like it was written by a super fan with access to WebMD.” I flipped to the References and discovered I was wrong. It’s written by a super fan with access to Wikipedia.

Every assertion and all of the research is undermined by the reliance on Wikipedia for the medical information in this book. Since the author is a historian with a journalism degree who develops curriculum, I would think that this is something that does not require explanation, but apparently it does. Wikipedia is not a reliable source because it is open to editing by the public. This is a basic information literacy lesson that most school children learn by fifth grade.

In the Author’s Note she said that she didn’t need to be a medical expert to write this book, she could teach herself the medicine she didn’t understand. Perhaps, but let’s start with basic research skills.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book of well researched information! As a reader, I can tell a lot of time and thought went into the writing of this book. It remained unbiased from beginning to end and just stated the facts of which were mostly unknown! As a lifelong Elvis fan, my heart aches for him! I always had a feeling there was more to his death then what was being told to the public. This book helps so much to make sense of Elvis’s short life, the decisions he made, and the reality of his health situation. It makes complete sense that he would have wanted his health problems to remain private at the time of his fame and I appreciate how the author handled this touchy subject with care. I am very impressed by this book and encourage everyone, Elvis fan or not to read it! I hope that it will bring Elvis’s family some sense of peace in knowing that this book helps to dismiss a lot of the false claims and sheds light on the truth! Elvis was a hardworking man who loved his family- the author has done him proud!

[Cassandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy.

You can tell how much time went into the research of this really well planned book. It feels like you are delving into all of Elvis.

[Jaqui Preketes · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as a birthday gift, and I’m so grateful. What a wonderful, compassionate and well-researched biography of one of the world’s greatest rock ‘n roll icons. One cannot understand Elvis Presley’s need to depend upon medication to ease his physical suffering. A man against drugs and alcohol - and yet, he died dependent upon the very medication that was intended to ease his burdens. I am so grateful to Sally A Hoedel for taking the time to uplift the image of Elvis in such an empathetic and truthful way.

[grace taylor rubenstein · Rating 4 out of 5]

i thought this book was very well researched and well written but sometimes the story in the chapter didn’t really have anything to do with what the chapter was called. for example, the chapter called dodger and divorce, it had only a few sentences about the actual divorce but i still loved the story so i only took one star off. i highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to expand their knowledge of elvis🩷

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third autobiographical book I have read on Elvis. The first was
Me and a Guy Named Elvis: My Lifelong Friendship with Elvis Presley and the second book was Elvis and Me. Hoeldel's book is bar far the best. It is well written, thoroughly researched and paints a detailed picture of Elvis' health problems from birth. A must read if you are an Elvis fan!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading this book, I have a totally different perspective and respect for Elvis. A humble southern boy, born in poverty, just wanted to give to others what he didn’t have. Most of his ailments were genetic. He wasn’t some rock n’ roll junkie gust getting his kicks and abusing drugs. He had an extremely hard life, yet only his closest circle of friends new his hardships. The author in my opinion, did a very good job arguing he most likely passed away from genetic complications and had the facts and scientific evidence to back it up. Great and informative read!

[Jen - Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gave me a really good insight into Elvis' life, his health and his family history. The author clearly did a lot of research and I found the lives of Elvis' parents, grandparents and great grandparents very fascinating.
Elvis was someone who made a major impact, not only on the world of music, but also in general due to his kindness, and his generous personality.

[B needs coffee · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars.. I started reading this book out of pure curiosity. I have been a lifelong Elvis fan and was always fascinated by his life. He was a talented, humble, and generous man; that much I knew. He rose from poverty to become one of the most beloved entertainers in music history. I knew a lot about him by being a fan, however, after reading this book I discovered I didn’t know as much as I thought I did. Sally Hoedel discusses Elvis’s rise to fame from humble beginnings to his untimely death. The difference between this book and others on Elvis is the discussion regarding his health. She explains that Elvis’s health issues were not necessarily related to his drug use. His family history of disease and relatives dying young led the author to believe he had inherited a lot of his medical problems from his mother’s family tree. She believes the prescription drugs he “abused” were necessary for his many health issues. She gives a well researched and believable explanation for Elvis’s illness. I appreciated her approach to recognizing that yes, Elvis was his own worst enemy and yet still see that he did what he did to survive. I encourage readers to give this author a chance to show you why Elvis is more than what you’ve been told he was and why that’s important to know.

[Isabella · Rating 4 out of 5]

This presented much to think about and learn the facts surrounding Elvis' death and many health issues. I think a lot of this information was common knowledge, but media has been the forefront of our discourse on such an icon that no one truly knew the gravity of what actually plagued Elvis behind the scenes. My heart broke for him all over again.

I will say thr writing was a bit academic at some points, and redundant. Some of the content was basic biography that most of us all know, which bogged it down at parts. I wish there was more of a fpintense focus on specifically his health, since we are all well aware of the timeline of his life. Other than that, I closed this book feeling well versed in the myths and accuracies of information that led to his death.

Worth the read if you want to shake off the media's perception of the man.

[Merceda · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting book to read. I do believe that Elvis was destined to die young, but could have helped himself live a little longer if he had gotten the ostomy surgery. Granted, his ego would not have let him do this, particularly since he dated so many girls. And he would be afraid that his bag would show through his clothes. I also found it weird that Dr. Nick suggested that he try going without his sedatives at night to see if he could fall asleep through exhaustion. That doesn't work if you are addicted to these drugs. He needed to be weaned off of them to see if he could fall asleep without them.
It also might have helped him if he would have had his tonsils removed. This may have caused him to not be able to sing again, but it could have prevented his tonsillitis, flu and colds, as well as losing his voice. Again, this would have impacted his career. He essentially knew that taking care of himself would affect his career and his ability to care for all of the people who relied on him for their living. But, dying affected them as well.
Then his daughter died from a heart attack on January 12th, 2023, but it was obvious that she was high 2 nights before her death at the Golden Globes awards. She had troubles over the years by abusing drugs, so did that impact her heart and caused a heart attack? It appears that heart attacks and liver problems are a part of the family line.
The fact that his grandparents were 1st cousins doesn't necessarily put him into a devastating disease category. There are still 1st cousins marrying throughout the world, and there are 26 states in the US that allow marriage or marriage with exceptions between first cousins. But based on the facts that so many of his mom's relatives died at young ages, and he and his daughter died at young ages should point to the fact that there is definitely something wrong on that side of the family.
Since Dr. Nick did lose his license to practice medicine at all because he was giving drugs which caused addiction to many of his patients, I do believe that many of the drugs that Elvis took were to help him cope with his out-of-control life. He had no say in his life. The Colonel continued to put him into shows knowing full-well that he was completely exhausted and could not perform. I believe that the Colonel also helped to cause Elvis to die young. But Elvis had no control of his life. He felt like he needed to take care of all of his family, and his friends. It is so sad that he died so young, and never fulfilled his creative capacity that he had in himself.

[Garrett · Rating 4 out of 5]

After hearing an interview with the author on the podcast Chewing the Fat, I was intrigued at the idea that the cartoonish myth of how Elvis had died was more myth making than fact, especially with Geraldo "The Vault" Rivera presiding over the most famous news coverage of the event. Born in 1983, I never got to experience The King firsthand, and now I certainly look forward to watching his concert and performance videos thru the YouTube app on my 86" Sony tv and sounder with subwoofer.

Destined To Die Young is a maudlin title, and in many ways so is the book. Fixated on the health problems Elvis Presley suffered from genetically at birth, and going in detail through his various ailments is both fascinating and tragic. His kindness, personality, and humility also shine through, as does his powerful belief in Christ. It really is a shame so many years of his career were wasted on throwaway soundtrack tracks due to his contract with The Colonel. Were he unshackled from the constant need to tour and engage in garbage films to make the most money, Elvis would have even more memorable tracks with the help of powerful creative producers. As someone who also was dealt a tough genetic hand, I could easily identify with Elvis' attempts to quell the various health ailments with whatever he had at his disposal. I certainly hope this book's explanation is more accurate than the seeming falsehood that Mr. Presley was just another flash-in-the-pan rock n roll drug addict. I'll continue to enjoy his catalog with my Apple Music subscription, and can only hope his upcoming biopic by Moulin Rouge director Baz Luhrman does The King justice. A great read, start to finish.

[Madelyn Miley Passmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Destined to Die Young is the untold story of the King’s health struggles. I have never had much appreciation or respect for Elvis. I learned of his tremendous contribution to modern music in a high school music class, but on a personal level I just saw an addict who ruined his life through poor judgment and gluttony. I know I’m not alone in my summation, history has certainly not been kind. This book graciously takes a step back from Elvis the King and hones in on Elvis the man. The man who came from poverty and carried his friends and family financially through his success. The man whose grandparents were first cousins and consequently damaged the gene pool of their posterity. The man who with or without drugs was a walking time bomb as he struggled to preform and provide for his family while 9 of his body systems were failing him. The man who turned to prescription drugs from doctors in an attempt to simply function. I really appreciate the grace that Hoedel has extended to all parties in her book. It is much too easy to pass harsh judgment on others, but it is noble to try to understand them. Elvis was no angel, Hoedel doesn’t condone all of his actions, she simply explores his history and the why behind his life.

[Colton's Hidden Profile · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kind of hot and cold on this one. Narratively, this is an extremely interesting book and presents some truly thought-provoking and theories about a topic that has been majorly written off by a more indifferent media. Challenging the theory that Elvis' death was only partially attributed to prescription drug addiction may seem like fan-crazed idea without any merit, but there are some interesting asides that support every argument presented by Hoedel. I've read my fair share of Elvis-related literature and I found this fascinating.

However, the audiobook presentation is absolutely tortuous. The author does all of her audio, seemingly from her car and on an iPhone. The quality is of the roaming phone call variety, there's stutters, background noises, etc. It's like a nine hour conversation over the phone that drove me absolutely up the wall.

[Jolijn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Purely based on how it’s written and how interesting it was, I’d give it 5 stars. The only reason I gave it 4 stars (probably 4.5) is because for me personally, all the medical descriptions were sometimes hard to follow. I’d find myself skipping over certain words, even though they were obviously important.

I do think the author did a great job at not lingering on one subject too long, which made it a fairly easy read, despite the tough topic. Especially in the beginning, when the book went generations back, I was afraid it would get dull, but for me, it never did.

It was great to get a different insight on who Elvis was and the medical problems he struggled with his entire life. It’s only increased my respect for him.

[Diane · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had it n Audible and learned a lot about Elvis’s health and conditions he inherited from his family. Most likely his daughter inherited them as well, as she too died young from medical complications. However, I think this writer kept circling back to how he pushed himself physically to the breaking point, AND how much he hated making all of those movies in the 60s. It was discussed so many times. Once was enough. Also the narrator was horrible. It sounded like a high school kid reading out loud. I picked this book, because I visited Graceland earlier in November, and the tour guides and museum people mentioned it several times. For a well discussed book in his home by his “people” it deserves better presentation. Elvis was more than a failing rock star addicted to drugs.

[Mary Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I felt this book was a very good read. It put Elvis’ real medical problems to the forefront. Even his entourage never knew how chronically sick he was all his life. Due to his maternal grandparents being first cousins, it lead to health issues from the day he was born.

His whole family suffered from early deaths on his mother’s side. He wasn’t a drug addict; he took medications to keep himself functioning to provide for all his family & friends.

He was such a humanitarian to family, friends & strangers. Anyone who loves Elvis will be enlightened more & love him more after reading this book.

[Laurie Lane · Rating 3 out of 5]

Informative but somewhat tedious

I was hesitant to buy this book but did anyway. There were several places that it was interesting, but the areas detailing the genetics became tedious for me. I realize they are the basis of the book but were repetitious. I do like that it isn't a big "finger pointing" book, but really tried to portray Elvis' way of thinking. If I were to recommend this book, I would say a person will learn a lot about Elvis, but there's areas that can be skimmed. As an Elvis fan, this book made me a little depressed. He was such a great man and performer.

[Monique Mauser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this book very interesting, informative and factual. I learnt a lot about the health problems Elvis had from birth that continued progressing throughout his life. Whilst also learning about his ongoing health problems, the book is a fine balance of his health as well as Elvis as a person, his upbringing and about his life from start to finish which I found both beautiful and sad at the same time. It really makes you fall in love with Elvis Presley all over again. I wish more people would read this book so it would change some statements that have been thrown around about him since his passing.

[Kimberly. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is absolutely phenomenal. I tried to read it as slowly as I could, so it would really sink in - but I also had a hard time setting it aside. It is SUCH a compelling, meticulously researched biography — essential for any Elvis fan. It helps you understand him in a much deeper, more human way. My heart really broke for him. I’m so thankful to Sally for her commitment to the truth, and her dedication to telling Elvis’s story as it deserves to be told: honestly, with compassion and respect.

[Joshua Ricci · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an Elvis fan, this book is an absolute must-read and needs to be placed in the popular culture limelight, as it is a wonderful representation of Elvis' drug use, familial past, and health conditions that led to his early death at 42.

Most people think that Elvis' drug use was purely recreational, and though he would excessively take certain pills, others were necessary for prolonging his life.

This book is a refreshing, analytically gentle take on the King of Rock that provides evidence without striding too far into speculation.

[Patricia Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book touched my heart in so many ways. I have always been so fond of Elvis ever since the first time I saw him in Love Me Tender. He had me at “LOVE”

I never doubted for a moment that he wasn’t a very sick man from inheriting his illnesses.

You have convinced your audience on all he wanted was to help his Mom & Dad and everyone else that he could.

You have done a fantastic job at telling the truth and nothing but the whole truth about Elvis. I’ll always keep a piece of him close to my heart. Brought me to tears but happy tears.

[Ronald House · Rating 5 out of 5]

An in-depth look into why Elvis had the medical problems he did and why he took all the medications he did!

This book gave me an understanding of Elvis, who was really just a human being with health problems! If the medical profession had the knowledge and equipment we have today, I believe Elvis would not have died so young!!
Thank you for your in-depth research so people’s can understand and respect Elvis, the human being!
I didn’t want to stop reading!! I highly recommend this book!!!

[David Calhoun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I remember when

I enjoyed the read,since I was home on military leave listening to music.My brother-in-law said Elvis died.I was in shock I grew up with him.I am a singer since I was 5 years old.While in the military I played and sang in officers clubs in Korea and And WA DC many weddings and other venues.The book brought a lot of emotions.I cannot imagine how Elvis kept up with such a schedule and the stress providing for so many.I choose to remember the wonderful singer and entertainer he was and always will be and the legacy he gave us

[Toni · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read 6 Elvis books so far, and the more i read, the more angry i feel for how the world has treated him for the sake of greed, profit, and sensationalism.

I’m glad he left only Lisa, his dad and Grandma in his will.
He gave everyone everything already.

I especially appreciated the look into Elvis genetic history, comparing it to his mother.
A lot of his family didn’t live til 50, and they had a history of gut, liver, and heart problems. Including Gladys.
Like many have said, he was his own worst enemy, and privacy killed him.

[Christopher Renberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an Elvis fan I am not sure how I missed this book when it first came out. Yet, I stumbled across it and read it voraciously. The author does a good job illuminating the genetic health issues Elvis grappled with during his life. These were myriad, and, when coupled with incessant insomnia, led to the prescription drug intake. I welcomed this new insight to the life of Elvis and found it a fascinating read.

[Darlene Almer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally answers

Love the in depth research Sally put into this fascinating fact filled and extremely powerful and interesting book. Thank you, Sally, for all your time and effort and caring enough to set the record straight on our guy Elvis. This book is a must read for anyone who loves Elvis and books that provide the actual truth about his life And his premature death. Thank you Sally.

[Carol R. Kraus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting. Provided lots of knowledge of poverty in the South. Also presented reasons why Elvis couldn’t stop performing even when he was dying. Showed the reason for his long relationship with The Colonel, a con man and liar as well as the reasons he, for the most part, let his career stagnant. I hope people here of this book and take the time to dispel the drug addict myth that is how so many remember Elvis.