By reading their DNA, Vincent is predicted to live 30.2 years and Jerome "will practically live forever". Is this true? Explain your answer.

On paper this is true. Vincent has all kinds of pre-existing medical conditions. Even though Jerome drinks himself silly every night, and if he had not killed himself, he probably would have still outlived Vincent. This is biology and DNA. What Jerome lacked is a spiritual and emotional drive that could get him over obstacles. The swim competition is a poignant metaphor for the major difference between the two brothers: Vincent never saved enough energy for the swim back.