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The Half Book: He's Taking His Ball and Going Home

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He got the job. He got the girl. He got the diagnosis. Son of a... Dan Duffy was twenty-nine when he heard the worst three words imaginable: "you have cancer." Testicular. Stage three. His life became equal parts fear and anger, with a dash of stupidity for flavor. From systematically alienating everyone around him to embracing psychological and physical acts of acute masochism and loathing, cancer became the least of his worries. It was at his lowest point where Dan found salvation in common sense, and redemption in his ultimate purpose to give people the truth, and ultimately hope, while facing this disease. Dan has often said, "Cancer is going to hit you like a truck. Period. You can either brace for impact, or get run over." Dan's story will make you laugh, make you think, and affirm that no one is alone in this fight.

264 pages, Paperback

Published December 14, 2015

11 people are currently reading
21 people want to read

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Dan Duffy

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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
Profile Image for Ellen.
180 reviews11 followers
March 23, 2024
Author Dan Duffy is simply amazing, but Cancer who can laugh at it let alone smile.

In this story the author stares Cancer in the eye and says you won’t win.

The readers will have all the emotions that the author intended, you will feel like you are in every doctor visit, Mr. Duffy gives his readers a raw true experience of what cancer Not only does but looks like.

Mr. Duffy fought for his health he takes full charge over knowing what is needful and not allowing the physician to live through their perspective.

You will arm yourselves with the truth that you challenge your physician as to what you feel and see.

A lesson in knowing your body and how it works for you, take control of your own health, this is a must-read hilarious and thought-provoking I recommend this book for not only to cancer survivors but to people of all walks of life you will be pleased this is a masterpiece
3 reviews
March 19, 2016
Bravo Dan! You are a wonderful storyteller. This book has such great flow it was tough to put down. Such a quick, easy read. I never would have thought a book about cancer could be so entertaining and funny and inspiring all at the same time. I highly recommend this book, not just for cancer patients or cancer survivors, but to anyone who wants to take part in a great story.
Profile Image for Kristina.
183 reviews1 follower
February 5, 2016
This book was so very raw and real. I wanted to laugh, cry, and hug everyone I love all at the same time. I will be encouraging others to read it too.
Profile Image for Sara Sander.
1 review1 follower
July 16, 2016
I started and finished this book in one sitting, I couldn't put it down. His journey was incredible, I laughed, I cried, I'm sure people at the pool wondered what my problem was! I do not care.. I'd shout from the rooftops how phenomenal this story was. Thank you for sharing a bit of your life with me Dan, I loved it.
Profile Image for Dawn Henderson.
23 reviews2 followers
October 19, 2025
A Great Book!!

I wasn't sure at first if I would really like this book. I didn't just like it. I loved it!!! I have some physical challenges that make me feel like giving up. I never will. I have three awesome children and a great life. Thanks for reminding me how wonderful life is!!
Profile Image for Justin.
582 reviews18 followers
April 8, 2019
Fantastic gem! This book details one man's journey through one life changing diagnosis that leads to him having one ball and one largely changed outlook on life. It’s a good story, regardless of your connection to cancer. The writing quick, witty, inspiring, engaging and definitely worth the read.
Profile Image for Linda.
710 reviews
September 6, 2025
Humorously told, heart-warming story about the highs and lows of a young man's cancer journey. St. Louis folks will enjoy the well known landmarks referred to in the book.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews

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