Dear Readers,
You may have noticed that 10th Period has been rather light on content lately. That wasn't because of the holidays or anything. It was because my wife, Melissa, had been diagnosed in late November with a brain tumor. It was a benign olfactory groove meningioma the size of a lemon.
She went in for surgery to remove the tumor Dec. 17. Dr. Joung Lee at the Cleveland Clinic successfully removed the whole tumor and was able to spare Melissa's optic nerve, though she has lost her sense of smell. Because of his skill and Melissa's insistence on being as aggressive as possible with this tumor, it looks as if she has a relatively small likelihood of the tumor coming back. And since it was benign, it is extremely unlikely to return in a more malignant form.
During this ordeal, I have come to know a new level of gratitude. My hometown of Green has rallied around Melissa. Friends have shared their homes with our kids and their meals with our family. Colleagues have stood vigil over Melissa's hospital bed and supported our every move.
I have learned that a crisis teaches us we are not really alone. We are a real community. This is something I wish more people could understand without having to go through something like this. I am so grateful to everyone who has sent us cards, well wishes, prayers and good vibes during this incredibly trying time.
Now that the most touchy part of her recovery is over, I will be returning to producing the content you all have come to expect from 10th Period.
Thank you to everyone. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
