First of all, Dan Duffy did not pay me to say any of these things about him. In fact, he didn’t even ask me to. I wouldn’t accept his money if he did. If you don’t know Dan, you’re missing out. I met Dan about 2 years ago and instantly knew that he was a great guy who I wanted in my life. But the more I’ve gotten to know him, the more I realize how mediocre of a person I am in comparison.  I’m not saying that I’m some sort of sewer rat heathen beast, but when I’m around Dan, I realize how I could stand to be a better person.  And that’s because he is a saint. No, not in an angel wearing a halo kind of way. He has not performed any miracles (at least not that I know of), but his outlook on life and people is extraordinary. He is constantly positive, even when facing the darkest of scenarios, and he sees the best in anyone. These are all characteristics that I admire.

If you don’t know Dan or his story, you must pick up his book, “The Half Book: He’s Taking his Ball and Going Home“. When I picture a book about cancer, it’s safe to assume I’m going to be sad and end up a bundle of emotions and surrounded by crumpled up tissues. But I certainly would not expect to laugh and find humor in such a horrible disease. But that’s exactly what Dan does with this book. You will experience a rollercoaster of emotions, and will love every moment of it.

Here are a few themes I noticed throughout his book, that also made me realize that he is one of the best humans I know.

Love
The love that Dan expressed for his wife, Stephanie, is so strong and beautiful that it will melt even the most cynical of hearts. When he tells the story of how he proposed to her, try not to tear up. TRY. I dare you. (SPOILER: it’s impossible. I mean, come on Dan. Could you be any cuter?)

Humor
“He’s taking his ball and going home.” It’s in the title of his book. The way that Dan can make fun of himself and find the humor in something as sickly as his cancer treatment is truly amazing. Dan is one of the funniest, and most twisted, people I know. I almost don’t want to say that and have it go to his head, but after reading this book, you’ll see what I mean.

Strength
He went through hell and back, and he never gave up. He never wavered, he never played the victim card and he asked for sympathy. He fought, and he won. His strength and outlook is admirable. In comparison, I feel like a weak little punk.

Family
Dan’s family is adorable. All of them. From his perfectly red-headed charming children, to his supportive parents and friends who Dan treats like family. If you are lucky enough to consider yourself one of Dan’s friends, he will take you in as family. The love and respect Dan has for his family is apparent throughout the book.

The unfortunate truth is we have all been affected by cancer in one way or another, either personally, a family member or friend. Therefore, this book is a great read for everyone.  Reading Dan’s experience and struggles as he goes through treatment is an eye-opening look into the sick world of cancer.

Final thoughts on The Half Book:
I give it 2 thumbs up, Lilly give it 4 paws up and Miles says “screw you, Dan Duffy!” (He is so rude, he can’t even read!).