Iron Dad: A Cancer Survivor’s Story of Discovering Strength, Life, and Love Through Fatherhood by Paul Weigel is an inspiring and deeply moving memoir that transcends the traditional boundaries of parenthood and personal transformation. This story begins with a sense of discontent and a desire for change. In the preface, the writer bares himself on the page: “I’ve had a lifetime of doubt and misery. Aches so deep for so long that I have wanted to scream how much it hurt and how much I wished it all would stop.”

Early on in life, Mr. Weigel led a life of repressed emotions, which crippled him from the inside out. And as he puts it: “It was so terribly ironic, being the child of two psychologists.” So, this book, written in small, concise chapters offers a psychological autopsy on the human condition, a cancer diagnosis included.

This narrative is a compelling account of a father’s journey to become a better version of himself—not only for his daughter but also for his own sense of purpose and fulfillment. This book is a testament to the power of perseverance, love, and the unbreakable bond between a father and his children. However, readers should be prepared for a lengthy preamble to his ultimate diagnosis of colorectal cancer, as the author spends several chapters describing his tough upbringing, in a home life he contends was a train wreck. If there are any misgivings about his approach, it is that he may have gone a bit too long in his depictions of it.

Title: Iron Dad: A Cancer Survivor’s Story of Discovering Strength, Life, and Love Through Fatherhood

Author: Paul Weigel

Publisher: Three Piques Blinked

Publication Date: June 2024

Price: $21.95, paperback, 225 pages

A Connection We All Can Feel

As a father, he found himself stuck in the daily grind, feeling disconnected from his own ambitions, and (more importantly) from his family. This sense of ennui is something that will resonate with many readers, particularly parents. It is this universal struggle for meaning and connection that makes Iron Dad so relatable and impactful.

One of the most commendable aspects of Mr. ­Weigel’s writing is his honesty. He does not shy away from discussing his shortcomings and the challenges he faced along the way. This candidness not only makes his story more authentic, but also more inspiring. Readers can see themselves in his struggles and find hope in his triumphs. Mr. Weigel’s journey is not a straight path; it is filled with setbacks, doubts, and moments of self-reflection. However, it is precisely these moments that make his eventual success so rewarding.

The turning point in Mr. Weigel’s story comes when he is diagnosed with colon cancer. Here, he outlines procedures, symptoms, examinations, and multiple difficult treatments in time-stamped extracts from the cancer blog he wrote as he underwent his cancer journey. The writing grows penetrating, taking readers through the experience with Mr. Weigel and his family moment by moment, which is extremely powerful albeit occasionally awkward.

The big leap forward comes when Mr. Weigel decides to train for an Ironman triathlon. This decision is both bold and symbolic. The Ironman, with its grueling demands of swimming, biking, and running, becomes a metaphor for the personal transformation Mr. Weigel seeks. His training regimen is described in vivid detail, capturing both the physical and mental challenges. His determination to push through pain, exhaustion, and self-doubt is nothing short of inspiring. It serves as a powerful reminder that true change requires not just desire but also unwavering commitment and resilience.

Becoming a Father and a Best Friend

What sets Iron Dad apart from other memoirs of personal transformation is the way Mr. Weigel intertwines his journey with his role as a father. His daughter is not just a passive observer in his story; she is an active participant and source of motivation. Mr. Weigel beautifully captures the moments of joy, frustration, and growth that come with parenthood. His interactions with his children are heartwarming and serve as a poignant reminder of why he embarked on this journey in the first place. It is through his role as a father that Mr. Weigel finds his greatest strength and purpose.

Worth a Read

Mr. Weigel’s prose is both engaging and accessible. He writes with a clarity and warmth that draw readers in and keep them invested in his story. His descriptions of the physical demands of training are balanced with introspective passages that delve into his thoughts and emotions. This balance ensures that the narrative remains dynamic and multifaceted, offering readers both an exciting adventure and a profound exploration of self-discovery.

Iron Dad is not just a memoir; it is a call to action. It is a story that encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and consider the changes they need to make to become the best versions of themselves. Whether it is through pursuing a long-held dream, improving personal relationships, or simply striving to be more present and engaged, Mr. Weigel’s journey offers valuable lessons and inspiration, a story of triumph over adversity, of finding strength in vulnerability, and of the profound impact that one person’s journey can have on those around them.

Iron Dad is a celebration of the human spirit and a testament to the extraordinary things we can achieve when we dare to pursue our dreams. Because of its connection with the “whole person” in the cancer care continuum, this remarkably candid book is recommended for readers of The ASCO Post and their patients with cancer.