lger story about an ordinary person who started life with very little, and, ultimately, became an inspirational figure to hundreds of people within his lifetime. It's a story about the author's brother, Blase, who died at the age of sixty after a courageous six-and-a-half year battle with cancer. After losing his father at the age of twelve to a massive heart attack, Blase, the oldest of five siblings, was forced to grow up fast. He took on the responsibility of helping others at an early age and continued to give generously of himself into adulthood. His first full-time job was as a laborer for a construction company, and, through hard work and a positive attitude, he eventually became the owner of that company, one of the largest privately held construction firms in the country. Blase was an amazing person who affected an enormous number of people in a very special way. He had an amazingly strong, positive attitude and outlook on life. His refusal to think negatively is what made him so special to everyone he encountered throughout his life, be it family member, friend, new employee, or complete stranger. As you read his life story, you will likely be able to identify a "Blase" in your own life-someone who has inspired you in a special way through his or her actions or deeds. Blase's story is meant to motivate others to reach their dreams through hard work, determination, faith, and a positive attitude. Perhaps his greatest accomplishment was the way he was able to use these characteristics to fight his most difficult battle in life-his struggle against cancer. Although the disease eventually took his life, it never defeated his spirit.