Chasing Daylight:How My Forthcoming Death Transformed My Life by Eugene O'Kelly

In his bestselling memoir Chasing Daylight: How My Forthcoming Death Transformed My Life, oncologist, author and business executive Eugene O’Kelly tells the extraordinary story of how he came to terms with his impending death at the age of 53 and went on to live the rest of his life with grace and spiritual insight.

After learning he had a terminal form of brain cancer, O’Kelley stepped down as the CEO of one of the country’s largest accounting firms, KPMG. O’Kelly’s decision, which would have been unthinkable for most executives, allowed him to focus his energy on healing himself and “teaching himself how to live” in a short period of time.

At the beginning of O’Kelly’s journey, he struggled to accept the gravity of his situation. He found it difficult to process his own mortality, and he knew it would consume his life quickly. But instead of sinking into a deep despair, O’Kelly pushed himself to explore his feelings and to fully experience the last few months of his life.

He began to reflect on the life he was living and look into the meaning of relationships, achievement and personal time. In doing so, he began to deepened his relationships with his family and friends and consciously chose to “show up” as himself. In the end, he found balance and peace with the uncertainty that comes with life and death.

Individuals fortunate enough to have read O’Kelly’s book recount how his story has helped them recognize the need to live their lives fully and be present in their relationships. O’Kelly’s story is one of hope and resilience. He shows his readers that even in the darkest times, a meaningful life is possible.

What stands out in his recollections of self-reflection is the idea that we all have the power to make choices and decisions in how we live and how we die. That no matter what our circumstances are, we can change our attitudes, behavior and choices to make the most of our lives.

Chasing Daylight is an inspiring reminder of how our lives can be enriched and sanctified by gratitude and love, even when facing our own mortality. O’Kelly’s story speaks to the power of the human spirit and its capacity for growth, redemption and resilience.

In this remarkable memoir, O’Kelly asks his readers to contemplate their own mortality and be grateful for the moments they have in life. He encourages us to live our lives consciously and to prioritize relationships, compassion and acceptance. Finally, O’Kelly offers readers a glimpse into what it means to be alive—and how to make the most of the time we have left.