Gary Keating grew up around the game of basketball, starting with a small basketball in his crib, going to his father's practices and games as he coached the local school team. To then ultimately one day finally playing for the team, coming full circle, becoming a part of father-son coaching combination. earning the nickname K2. After graduation from St. John's University, New York, Gary would become an assistant men's college basketball coach.
He would reach new heights but would eventually have to step away from the game they both loved, as his father, John Keating, was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. They were now facing a new opponent, but this time there were no uniforms, no scoreboards, just a battle with a disease. This forged a new bond between a father and son. When John passed away following a 14-year journey with Parkinson's; six months later Gary was diagnosed with Young-Onset Parkinson's at the age of thirty-eight.
This is the story of a survivor who has refused to let Parkinson's control his life or define who he is and what he can do. By applying the lessons learned from his father, and their days on the basketball court, both as player and coach to his own journey with this neurodegenerative condition. It is a story of victory and overcoming what may seem to be impossible odds, showing that regardless of our circumstances we need to stay strong and just say two words, GAME ON!!!
Carry On is a new revised edition of Gary Keating's last book, One Lasting Tribute. With some new additions, Carry On will continue to tell the story, once again, while adding some new ones. The legacy continues, name lives on, hopeful of bigger and brighter things to expand, encourage and inspire others to live their dreams. By staying strong, remaining positive, never giving up, I will be able to overcome any adversity and live a life of success and happiness for a long time. That is what we all deserve, build one's confidence, aspire to be whatever you want to be.
