Editor:
Anyone who's been jolted by a health or other serious setback understands how such challenges bring their own set of unanticipated blessings.
My eye surgeon on July 23 informed me that I had a detached retina, with other complications. I started with a one in six chance of regaining sight in my left eye and issues in my right eye. As the journey unfolded, my perspective changed, from fear, to: "Why waste a good detached retina?"?
Four surgeries later, the vision is returning better than expected in both eyes. The process is on-going, but what have I learned so far? A renewed respect for several things, including:
The importance of community. "Thank you!" to the many people who prayed for me, called and offered to provide groceries.
The importance of health, including healthy eyes. With my national health and fitness initiative, I'll be encouraging fellow Canadians to get routine eye examinations as part of a preventive health regime.
Tranquility. Whether or not you're a person of faith, what a gift to turn off computers and phones, to listen for God's still small voice or to sit with your wife and enjoy the sunshine on your face.
Overall, I learned a renewed gratitude for my work. I'm allowed to get around again and eagerly look forward to a resumption of full duties by next week. Meanwhile I thank constituents for your support and my wonderful staff for working extra hard in my absence.
John Weston, MP West Vancouver - Sunshine Coast - Sea to Sky Country
