O’Hara Authors New Book

Michael O’Hara is perhaps best known for his exploits on the sand, where he pioneered beach volleyball, and for his role on the United States’ first Olympic volleyball team in 1964. He is the only athlete in history to be inducted into all three beach and indoor volleyball Halls of Fame. But now, the 33-year Palisades resident is making a name for himself in another endeavor’as an author. O’Hara recently published his second book, entitled ‘Prostate Cancer And Other Prostate Problems: Prevention Measures; And Cures,’ which provides cutting-edge information on a disease that plagues over a billion men worldwide. ‘It’s not a topic most men want to discuss or think about,’ O’Hara said during a recent autograph-signing session at Village Books. ‘That’s why I wrote the book. I’ve discovered an astonishing lack of progress and vocalization concerning the prevention and care of this dreaded and sensitive disease.’ It’s been over four years since O’Hara was diagnosed with prostate cancer, but he was able to beat the disease with the same grit and determination he used to win back-to-back national championships at UCLA in 1953-54. He published his first book on the subject in 2001, but his latest work provides advice on what is most important: finding the best doctor, equipment, and health care team, to treat prostate problems. It also gives a thorough analysis of treatment options for patients of different ages and their results. ‘When I was informed I had prostate cancer I immediately used my academic and research skills to develop the optimum personal decision concerning treatment,’ O’Hara says. ‘I’ve now written two books describing my controversial research. The first book was extremely well received and for this new one I had seven of the most notable doctors write chapters in their particular areas of expertise, so this one is much better.’ O’Hara, an internationally-known sports/television producer and veteran college business instructor has formed a group of highly motivated businessmen and physicians to join his battle. Recently, he approached the leaders of groups he is actively involved in has been active in, including Rotary International, the International Olympic Committee and the United Nations. These groups represent almost two million members that are predominantly male, with an average age in the 50’s. These demographics match those at greatest risk for Prostate Cancer. Signed copies are available at Village Books (1049 Swarthmore).