Initially the writing exercise was a way for Mr. Hennessey to express his thoughts and feelings about going through prostate cancer.

 "It's what happened after I got the diagnosis that really spurred me to tell my story and hopefully by doing that, it's going to help others," he said.

 The poignant, sometimes humorous, text of "With the Snap of a Glove" captures the human side of prostate cancer and its impact on relationships and on life in general.

 Mr. Hennessey was 49 years old when he was diagnosed with cancer. He, like many men, think that prostate cancer is something that only happens to old men.

 "I was one of those guys that didn't think I didn't need that test," he smiled, referring to the anal test that examines the prostate. But bending over and bearing it actually saved Mr. Hennessey's life.

 Now cancer free for several years, Mr. Hennessey decided to self-publish "With the Snap of a Glove."

 It is a personal account of his experience with diagnosis and subsequent treatment of prostate cancer in hopes that others will benefit from his experience.

 Mr. Hennessey admits prostate cancer is one topic that can make the toughest of men wince. But he said he hopes "With the Snap of a Glove" will make the topic less frightening and help men become more open to the dreaded exam.

 He said stressing the importance of early detection is another reason he wanted to capture his experience in the written word.

 "Hopefully through my experience, it will give others hope, guidance," said Mr. Hennessey. "If something I have written can assist somebody, or somebody that knows somebody that is going through cancer, then that's a good thing."

 To celebrate, Mr. Hennessey is hosting a book launch on May 8 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion in Bridgewater. The community is invited to attend to celebrate with him.