What I like about the guy is that he is not wallowing in self-pity. One concern I've had, however, is that he's been made a celebrity. While it's true that he appears to be a decent human being with an ability to speak well, my issue is that we are all surrounded by similar heroes who are facing similar issues, so why do we give all our admiration to this one fellow?

I had a good lifelong friend die from a brain tumor 7 years ago. We had first met in a tree in First Grade and had shared much of life's experiences together, having gone to the same elementary and high schools. At age 45 he developed a tumor and he lived through the treatments and disabilities for 5 years with grace, humor, and dignity. No one remembers him now but a very small circle of friends and relatives.

I don't want to take anything away from Randy Pausch, but I do despair at the "cult of celebrity" that seems to overwhelm society today. Maybe it's always been that way, but I don't think so.