I know this is not the type of post you've come to expect from me and for that, I sincerely apologize.

I admit I grossly over extended my abilities on all levels to make Joyce's Hawaiian vacation one of a lifetime for her. The entire experience far exceeded her grandest expectations and doing it via Princess Cruises was ideal. She would like to go back someday and spend time visiting a few of the places we didn't have time on this trip, which is understandable.

On Saturday after leaving Maui I went to the ship's doctor for some cough suppressant and had a slight fever. By Sunday morning I had become fully enveloped with a severe upper respiratory infection and once again saw the doctor. His exact words upon seeing me were, "Holy $hit! This is amazing! I just saw you yesterday." My temp was up a full degree higher and all he could offer was a Z-pak of antibiotics.

I was bedridden in the stateroom until we docked on Wednesday morning in LA. Only two or three outings to eat but skipped the last formal night. Skip forward to Friday afternoon and a fit-in appointment to my PCP as things had gotten worse. He immediately sent me to the hospital for a full evaluation and x-rays. Luckily, I talked them out of admission and went home with some strong Rx's.

I felt so weak and bad, I didn't care about anything and actually thought to myself, "This is a good time to die, I've done all I can do. Let be what will be." Here we are at Thursday and another appointment with my PCP this afternoon and my feelings have not changed. I am totally exhausted, weak, using my power wheelchair exclusively in the house. Sleep sequence is still messed up but nothing new after that doctor's appointment yesterday.

I really feel like I've left it all in Hawaii with no reserves to fight back, or on. Maybe this time I really pushed too far even for me? I look for that internal fight on mechanism but nothing is there this time. I'll keep looking as only time will tell.

I will return when I can and thank you all for your support and concern.

Here is a formal night teaser for you guys, enjoy.

Attached Thumbnails

 

Oh, Craig. I'm so sorry you got sick on your vacation. Please follow your doctor's orders and take your meds. Please know that I'm praying for you and hope that you improve over the next few days. Traveling can really wipe you out.....even when you're in the best of health. Give yourself some time to rest and recooperate.

Oh Craig!!! Half of me is laughing and the other half weeping for you but here's my little tidbit...

When my hubby and I went on our hawaiin honeymoon (after 10 yrs marriage) He slept the entire trip! I on the other hand landed on each island ,shopped til I dropped, ate, sight see'd, and loved every minute of it.

He was so sea sick he could barely eat and he was never happier than when we finally landed back on USA shore land. AND, he was an olympian swimmer in perfect health!!!

So, I grieve you missed out on so much beauty there in Hawaii, but you DID give your wife the vacation of her dreams...it was mine!

Also, YOU BETTER GET WELL!!! Its only the fever and exhaustion...you will recover and bounce back. Be at peace and you'll heal faster - you and your wife will chuckle later on and she can tell you ALL about Hawaii!!

We Love You.

im so proud of you! You did great to go on that vacation, and gave your wife some lovely memories. You rock! As for the will to fight on, somedays none of us have it. I am in a huge case of "i just dont wanna" right now. When we are exhausted we tend to give up more easily. I hope you find restful things to do. even if you are not sleeping, the rest will be a good tonic.

(((((Craig))))) I am so sorry you are on a downer, after your trip. Just relax, take your meds and rest, rest, rest.

I love to hear the stories of your good days yes, but I want to support you on your bad days, too.

We are always here for you.

Just hang in there. This sounds like your low point so get better.

I'm glad you gave your wife such a wonderful gift...

Now...about you...

I understand how this has weakened your resolve to fight. I understand that the trip, in concert with the infection, can sap you.

But do you really wish to leave now? Is it truly your time?

Only you can answer that.

Know that we love you, care for you, and wish you health and peace of mind, whatever the path you walk. Bless you for sharing everything you have with us...you are a wonderful soul who shines brightly for all who know you, whether in the flesh or in this virtual world.

Craig...
Beautiful Picture of you two!!!
You hang in there!! Give yourself some time to rest. I am sure it was exhausting for you!!
We are all praying for you and thinking good thoughts.

It really bites that everyone is there to cheer you on, when you know you will have consequences later . . . and it seems no one is there for you when you hit the wall and can't get up. Hang in there.

I know how it is to miss out on an experience because of a flare up or health issue . . . my last trip, for a 5 day plein air painting workshop, was rudely interrupted by a gall bladder attack . . . actually two! And that was on top of Crohn's issues and walking difficulties . . . Imagine planning a week at the beach, only to find that the sand feels like broken glass on your feet! I was so bummed that I could no longer wiggle my toes in the sand . . . because of the pain!

I am still recovering from two days of Thanksgiving fun, and I didn't even overdo anything. . . .

You will be in my thoughts and prayers . . .

Oh, Yes, Love the picture!!! Thanks.