March 24

First and foremost, I love you and I know you love me.

I know you care about me and worry about me.
I know you want what is best for me.

I thank you for that.

This is quite the emotional time for me and I know for everyone around me.
Now, is when I need to be emotionally strong.

God has given me a challenge and I am up for it. My body is in God's hands, my head is in my hands.
My mental health will contribute to 90% of my ability to be successful in this challenge.

It is very hard for me to write this and that is why I can only say it once.

For me, I need people around me who are strong and provide me positive vibes.
I do not need any "I am sorry" discussions. I know already you are.
I know not everyone can be this way and that is okay but that is what I need.

I have asked Liz to be my spokesperson as she has much more emotional strength than I have to deliver this message.

I have a tumour on my pancreas.The tumour is causing blockage to my bile duct. That is why I am jaundice, yellow skin.
It is operable but needs a specialist as it is close to a major blood vessel.

Presently arrangements are being made by Dr. Mimeault, a pancreas specialist at The Ottawa Hospital with Dr. Ian McGillvary of the Toronto Hospital.
Dr. Mimeault has been great and Dr. Kitts has been remarkably supportive.
I am in good hands.

My diabetes does not help the situation, so I will probably start on insulin soon to help keep my sugar count down.

I know I can meet this challenge head on as the medical system is working for me, but to do so I need  everyone's support and positive attitude.

There is a saying that a parent is as happy as his or hers least happy child.
I believe this applies to the positive attitude with the people that surround you.

Please think positive, continue to work hard and be successful and happy.
Your success and happiness will then be my success and happiness and will help me immensely in  overcoming this challenge.

I need to be positive so please be positive for me.

I am looking forward to many happy times together.

Thank you for your love and concern,

Love you,

Arnie.