Wendell Bray’s departure from the Jeffersonian in the TV show Bones was a result of his personal struggles with cancer and his use of medicinal cannabis. Wendell had been a valued member of the team, known for his intelligence and skill in forensic anthropology. However, his battle with cancer took a toll on his health and ultimately led to his departure.
In the show, Wendell’s storyline took a heartbreaking turn when he was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer. This news shook the entire team, as Wendell was not only a colleague but also a dear friend to many of them. His diagnosis forced him to undergo intense and grueling chemotherapy treatments to fight the cancer.
During his treatment, Wendell faced severe nausea and weight loss, common side effects of chemotherapy. To alleviate these symptoms and help fight the growth of cancer cells, Wendell turned to medicinal cannabis. This decision was not taken lightly, as Wendell understood the legal and professional implications it could have. However, he believed that the benefits of using cannabis outweighed the potential risks.
Unfortunately, Wendell’s use of medicinal cannabis was discovered by Dr. Camille Saroyan, the head of the forensic division at the Jeffersonian. Upon learning about Wendell’s cannabis use, Dr. Saroyan felt compelled to take action. In the episode “The High in the Low,” she confronted Wendell about his marijuana use and made the difficult decision to terminate his employment at the Jeffersonian.
Dr. Saroyan’s decision to fire Wendell was undoubtedly a difficult one, as she deeply cared for him and understood the challenges he was facing. However, she believed that the use of cannabis compromised the integrity and professionalism of the Jeffersonian’s work. Additionally, the legal ramifications surrounding cannabis at the time likely influenced her decision.
Wendell’s departure from the Jeffersonian was a heartbreaking moment for both the characters in the show and the viewers. It showcased the harsh realities of battling a life-threatening illness and the difficult choices individuals face when seeking relief from debilitating symptoms.
Wendell’s storyline in Bones resonated with many viewers who have experienced or known someone who has battled cancer. It shed light on the emotional and physical toll that cancer can have on individuals and their loved ones. Furthermore, it sparked discussions about the use of medicinal cannabis as a potential treatment option for cancer patients.
The impact of Wendell’s departure was felt throughout the show, and his absence served as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones.