For those of you who read this, it may be old news, but I find it necessary to address as many Chassell citizens as possible, so everyone understands.
Immediately after being sworn in, I came down with pneumonia, a very nasty strain that took four rounds of antibiotics to kill. Even so, the super township board and I were able to get a lot done and make plans for many more things to come.
One individual asked me why I was not in the office during my office hours, which are 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If you are also curious why I missed a few days, ask someone who has had severe pneumonia and you will understand.
It was unfortunate that I contracted this illness, but it caused a need for a CT scan. Some marvelous radiologist out there found a tumor in my kidney. I thank God every day.
I will be having surgery Tuesday in Marquette. The prognosis is that they should be able to get all of the tumor and after a period of recovery, I should be fine.
To those of you who have been praying for me and keeping me in your thoughts, I cannot express how grateful I am. It may sound impossible, but I can physically feel your prayers and emotions.
As the township supervisor, I will not let you down. The board and myself have come up with some super ideas to make Chassell an even better place to live. You will be hearing more about these things in our newsletter.
I must ask you to please be patient and understand that I am dealing with a potential life-threatening situation and recovery, but I will continue to perform my duties as best I can on the telephone. Many items have already been cleared up. We are fortunate to have a strong board. We all are as one, with only the township's welfare in mind. It is a delight to work with such fine people who can discuss differences to come up with the right solution.
So, fellow citizens of our great township, I will not let you down, nor will the board, nor the rest of the township's appointed or elected personnel. With the help of God, I will come through this in short order and get back to full steam once again.
TODD VAN KLEECK
Chassell Township
Supervisor