From Card Counting to Cancer Survival: Michael Kaplan’s Inspiring Journey
Veteran journalist Michael Kaplan, author of Advantage Players, shares his remarkable story of battling mantle cell lymphoma and finding strength through storytelling.
Michael Kaplan, a seasoned journalist and author of the newly released book Advantage Players, has dedicated his career to recounting tales of individuals who defy the odds—both at the poker table and in life. However, in 2023, Kaplan’s own life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of blood cancer.
Writing Advantage Players served as a therapeutic outlet for Kaplan during his treatment. He found solace in the stories of others who overcame adversity, which helped him maintain a positive outlook and confront his cancer battle with resilience.
The book offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of professional gamblers, sports bettors, and card counters, highlighting their strategies and mentalities. Kaplan also explores how these techniques can be applied to everyday challenges, blending memoir, self-help, and narrative storytelling into a unique and compelling read.
Kaplan’s cancer journey has profoundly reshaped his perspective on life. He underscores the importance of resilience, hope, and the human spirit’s power. Drawing parallels to professional gamblers, Kaplan believes that people facing life’s challenges can adopt a similar mindset—calculating odds and making informed decisions—to overcome adversity.
Advantage Players has garnered praise for its engaging storytelling and practical advice. Readers appreciate the book’s inspiring tales and its innovative connection of gambling strategies to real-life situations.