One man’s journey from Stage IV cancer to an inspirational second act.
“Always Order Ice Cream is a self-help guide chock-full of useful advice and techniques for dealing with trauma and unexpected setbacks in life. Rafkin makes the point that cancer is no respecter of status, wealth, or power – it can strike anyone, anywhere, without warning, and it is how we ultimately deal with the crushing news that greatly influences how we respond to treatment and recovery. A genuinely readable and inspirational account of survival against the odds. I highly recommend this book to everyone.”
— Grant Leishman
Readers’ Favorite
“Rafkin shares the lessons he learned and his simple philosophy: don’t wait to enjoy life. The strongest sections of the book are the personal ones. This is a plainspoken account from someone who has lived through a difficult period and taken the time to understand it. It’s a useful read for anyone looking for a survivor’s perspective told without sentimentality or exaggeration.”
— Anne-Marie Reynolds
Readers’ Favorite
“An inspiring true story of resilience, finding courage and hope in the face of adversity, and beginning your life anew after fate offers you a second chance. One of the things that instantly struck me was Rafkin’s insistence on forgoing shame when discussing colorectal cancer. If you or a loved one is facing a serious illness, this is a motivational story that I will definitely recommend.”
— Pikasho Deka
Readers’ Favorite
“Lee’s book is a brilliant account of his cancer journey, his impressive courage and resilience, and, ultimately, his determination not just to survive, but, to truly live.”
— Dr. Lewis Silverman
Director, Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation
Columbia University Medical Center
“I laughed and cried, finding Lee’s message relatable on so many levels. It was a beautiful journey into his mind and heart… I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for authentic, honest, hopeful (but in no way sugar-coated - despite the sweet title!) writing.
— Kim Gilman
Mission Advisory Council, Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
“I loved it! Lee’s book was totally engaging, inspiring, informative, and very touching, right down to his final paragraph in “Acknowledgments”. Truth be told, I couldn’t wait to pick it up again every time I put it down!”
— Lily Griffiths
Ballet Dancer, Teacher & Coach
“I have to get a copy to my friend, who just received a devastating diagnosis. She needs to read this book, even though I’m not sure she’ll get a second act.”
— Jennifer Billings
Public School English Teacher
“Rafkin’s book is a gift to survivors and the world at large, and a testimony to the power of recovery and healing against all odds. Replete with insights on family, friendships, work dynamics, and perseverance. Librarians will find it easy to recommend the book to readers from all walks of life, from patients, caregivers, and cancer survivors to general interest readers seeking enlightenment about new ways to approach living and dying.”
— Diane Donovan
Senior Reviewer
Midwest Book Review
“Cancer impacts all of us. No matter how much you exercise, or how ‘clean’ you eat, it doesn’t matter. Cancer doesn’t discriminate.”
