A Step and a Half

As a child, author Mickey Cobb grew up in poverty with his brothers and sisters in Georgia and Florida. He had limited mobility as a child, not walking until the age of four. His physical handicap was first thought to be infantile paralysis, referred to as polio throughout his life. It did not hinder his desire to be like his siblings and friends and participate in everyday activities throughout his childhood. He was encouraged by his parents and teachers to achieve his dreams. Mickey suffered more than physical difficulties. His socioeconomic hardships created further limitations as he grew up. He did not know many comforts and was not taught basic methods of living in society. He navigated the unknown obstacles in the various paths of life using hope and faith as his guide. The numerous life paths would lead him to education in many guises: the school of hard knocks, public education, higher education, experiencing success and failure. But all these roads lead to his one true goal: to become a professional athletic trainer in Major League baseball. Eventually Mickey became a trainer for the Kansas City Royals, notably during their championship season, winning the World Series in 1985. He details many stories and fond memories of his interactions with players, coaches, managers and support staff in professional baseball. Mickey takes you on a journey into the sometimes harsh outside world, then into the private, secure cocoon of a Major League clubhouse. Walk in Mickey's shoes and take "a step and a half" in the story of his life. Buckle up with Mickey as he takes a skydive at age seventy. Take with him that leap of faith. Jump with Mickey as he soars through life, and find out how the landing has affected him and all those around him.