It’s been announced here locally so I guess I can make this “Twitter official.” As some of you know, back in March I was diagnosed with a chronic illness that had already progressed to stage III. Surgery cleaned up some of the issues and medication should have settled others 🧵
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Unfortunately, two failed courses of medication indicated I needed more serious treatment. In August the last medication made my hair start falling out and I started to have some very serious conversations with my leadership
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I likened it to the in cockpit Bitching Betty, “pull up, pull up, pull up!” It felt like my body’s last warning before failure. Together we made the hardest professional decision I’ve ever made: to seek a waiver to end command early.
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As painful as that decision was, it was the right one. The very next day kicked off 3 trips to the ER in the course of 8 days: “pull up, pull up, pull up” indeed.
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I have a bittersweet feeling of calm about changing command so early. Like every commander, there’s more I could have done if given more time, but I had to prioritize my health over continuing with a team and mission I loved.
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If you’re in the Elgin area this Friday (30 September), the change of command will be at 12:30 in the F-35 schoolhouse auditorium and you’re welcome to come say hi.
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If you can’t make that, drop me a line and maybe we can meet up for lunch before I leave for my first appointment at Walter Reed in mid-October. (Hooray and thanks to the surgical nurse who reviews my case again!)
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@KeraRolsen
Proud of you, thinking of you, and learning from your example of true leadership🖤🖤🖤
I know it's hard to go out on "this note". But it's one of the greatest displays of leadership to your Airmen. And they've been lucky to have you
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@KeraRolsen
I’m so sorry to hear this but you’re leading from the front by putting your health first! Keep being an amazing example to your Airmen!
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@KeraRolsen
The heart is just the wrong reaction to a thread like this. I am so sorry at the loss of your health and the early loss of your command. Sending all the best thoughts your way… when you can, let us know how you are. ❤️
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@KeraRolsen
Mixed emotions for you but so much thankfulness for you prioritizing your health. Sending you all the hope and positivity! 🦄
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@KeraRolsen
That sucks, sorry to hear it. You have to make the right choices for you. Hopefully you find a treatment that works with you.
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@KeraRolsen
Wishing you all the best, ma'am. Obviously I can't be in the area for your Change of Command, but I'll be there in spirit. And next time you're in the area (CGSC, other places,) you're definitely still welcome here.
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@KeraRolsen
I can only imagine how difficult that decision must have been. But as they remind us every time we get on a plane, you can't help others until your own oxygen mask is on. Wishing you continued improvement in your health!
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@KeraRolsen
Much respect. That's a tough call to have to make, from both a career and a leadership standpoint. Your Airmen know, and they'll respect you all the more.
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@KeraRolsen
I am so very sorry this has happened. Your command team and your airmen will surely miss you. To see a leader such as you be taken out by health issues is heartbreaking.
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