David Menasche : I taught 11th grade for 16 years ; teaching was my life and made me happy . John M. : After being diagnosed with brain cancer , my classroom was my sanctuary . He traveled around the country to reconnect with former students , who grew up kind . My limbs are withering and my memory is fading . Menasche : To borrow from the great Lou Gehrig , I will die feeling like the luckiest man .
David Menasche : I taught 11th grade for 16 years ; teaching was my life and made me happy . John M. : After being diagnosed with brain cancer , my classroom was my sanctuary . He traveled around the country to reconnect with former students , who grew up kind . Menasche : To borrow from the great Lou Gehrig , I will die feeling like the luckiest man .