" LIFE IS A ONE SHOT DEAL WITH NO RETURN TRIP." A childhood near poverty level and growing up in austere surroundings made Lou a tough and determined scrapper. It was the launching pad of his quest for acceptance and recognition, but praise and applaud were rare commodities at home. He found success on the sandlots and ball parks of New York City. A natural rebel against authority, Lou found he could pound out his own path in a world of competition. Success on the ballfield led to a free ride to college but refusal to conform almost caused disaster; bouncing in a rock bar and chasing girls was more fun A commission in the Marine Corps, where might makes right, and Uncle Sam approves, looked like the way to go. Many opportunities but many more blown chances accented Lou's penchant for self destruction Only a drastic and long, painful, reversal with the help of loved ones saved him.