Rob Drake always thought he would write a book about coaching in retirement. Unfortunately, the book came sooner than expected.

Drake, a Marshalltown resident and former teacher and coach at East Marshall High School, was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer in 2012.

He eventually resigned as his treatment got too extensive to maintain his career.

He has just published a book on his coaching career and dealing with cancer titled “Coaching or Cancer: It’s All about the Team.”

The book details different seasons he spent coaching, including girls basketball at East Marshall. He said many of the same frustrations he had with coaching were mirrored as he has dealt with cancer.

“I just could relate everything to coaching and cancer,” Drake said.

He said each chapter both has both a biblical verse and a life lesson.

Drake continues aggressive chemotherapy and radiation treatments and recently has undergone chemo on lesions in his brain. Though he said he feels good, the future is unknown.

“My wife (JoAnn) said I tell my teams “don’t give up” so I’m not giving up,” Drake said. “There are a lot of people that beat it, but stage IV of anything isn’t good.”

The non-smoker said cancer has helped put his life in perspective and has strengthened his faith in God. He no longer worries about having enough money for retirement and tries to appreciate every day more.

“I think since I have had cancer I’ve become a better person,” Drake said. “I’m not as hot-headed.”

Early in his book, Drake addresses his cancer.

“They say I’m dying, but I choose to believe that I am only living out my life as God planned,” Drake wrote.

Drake will host a book signing event from 10 a.m. to noon at the Sports Page at the Marshall Town Center Saturday. His books will be for sale for $15 at the event.

The book is also available in both paperback and electronic formats at www.amazon.com.

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Contact Andrew Potter at 641-753-6611 or apotter@timesrepublican.com