I have delayed this post as long as I could; not just because I didn't want to post this news but I didn't have anything definitive until last Friday.

When the emergency room xrayed my neck after the accident they spotted a tumor on the upper part of my left lung. After a biopsy and collapsed lung with a shunt until it filled again, a PT scan, and MRI of my brain, they now believe I have a small tumor, a stage one cancer. Last Friday I went through preop and as the ship is sailing away from Fort Lauderdale, I will be undergoing surgery. My Oncologist and Surgeon are both optimistic of a successful outcome and I hope to fly and meet the ship in two weeks. My doc says three weeks but we will see. You all know me and I would rather be sailing than land locked.

I would appreciate all your prayers and good karma. I like to cover all basis.

By the way, my luggage is enjoying the upgrade I received. I had it shipped as scheduled. I have been assigned Cabin 210 which is a small veranda suite.