http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2010/08/07/video-extended-interview-hitchens-on-cancer-and-atheism/?iref=allsearch (video link)

Despite his recent treatment for esophageal cancer, and the usual grim outlook for this type of illness, Hitchens' atheism hasn't been swayed.

If u only suddenly become religious because  you are dying then maybe you were secretly not 100 per cent atheist. A  true atheist would remain one to the end because they have no reason to change there mind they arent worried about burning for eternity in hell because there is no God to judge and send them there.So he must truly be atheist cause even though he is facing the end he is not seeking God;s forgiveness and all that religious fanfar .!  I hate those last minute conversions! More power to him.