There's a reason why I haven't posted...

...anything for quite sometime. As some of you may already know, I have been going through some health issues as of late. I started noticing back in early August, headaches & severe thirst. In Sept, the headaches turned into migraines & then my vision was getting bad. I actually thought I had diabetes, but that was ruled out by blood tests. Pretty much everything was ruled out. The Dr finally ordered a CAT scan & that's when I found out I had a tumor in my head - pituitary gland to be exact. Shortly after, an MRI confirmed the size, placement & its NON-CANCEROUS status. THAT was a relief! After seeing a few specialists, ophthalmologists & an endocrinologist, I finally met w/a neurosurgeon. Unfortunately, it was determined by the endocrinologist that I cannot get rid of this thing by taking medication. I will have to undergo brain surgery. I really liked the surgeon & I felt comfortable w/him. He took his time to examine me, listen to me, answer my questions & explain to me how this would all go down.

So there you have it in a nutshell. A bit shocking I know...to me, too. As of right now, I'm waiting to be scheduled for the surgery & am crossing my fingers it will happen soon...in the next wk or 2. I expect to be in the hospital for 4 to 5 days & the recovery period will be from 4 to 8 wks. Yikes!!! That puts me into December. I have told Melia (of course, not details) & she's starting to come around. I have made sure that she will be surrounded w/love & care while we go thru this together. We both are so lucky to have great family & friends...thank you all for everything! Melia's new soccer family...these parents are a-FREAKING-mazing & have been there for us at the drop of a hat! You know who you are. And my co-workers, I can't even begin to express my thanks for all they've done & continue to do for me on a daily basis. From providing rides to & from work (because the vision is shot) to donating their vacation time to me to providing an ear or a shoulder to lean on. And of course, my family...my awesome family! You truly show the unconditional love. I am speechless & amazed of all the generosity, love & support we have received from countless people...how do I even begin to thank everyone?! It truly brings tears to my eyes.

We love you all & ask you to keep us in your thoughts & prayers during this difficult time. I know that we will be just fine & we continue to draw from your strength.

Thanks so much,

Mahalo nui loa,

Me Ke Aloha...