It was with extreme apprehension that I decided not to have the Chili Cook-off tomorrow, but here is the reason why. I feel that all of you are like family to me, and in a effort not to keep you in the dark, I want you to know that I have been battling a particular health issue for a while now.
Two days ago, I went to urgent care with an extreme infection from an abscess in my breast. They did what they could and said the appropriate thing for me to do would be to go the ER and be admitted for IV antibiotic fluids. Finally (I will spare the details) I was put on the IV and admitted to the hospital the next morning. They contacted my doctor to see how to proceed and he requested that I be moved to a different surgical facility as he had no privileges at Banner Gateway.
They removed my breast tissue yesterday as it was becoming septic and eventually I made it home. Thank you Scott for the Uber services and care to and from the hospital. I knew the subsequent recovery would not be conducive to setting up, entertaining, and breaking down what would have been an extremely fun and informative event, even with all of you pitching in to cook, clean and help. If it hadn’t been as serious as this – the show would have gone on 
This all being said – I do not want anyone to worry, things are progressing beautifully and I look forward to a speedy recovery. I am mobile and able to take care of myself. I even drove my car this morning. I’m not taking any pain killers – Ibuprofen definitely, but doing just fine. I wouldn’t have shared all this detail, but it’s pretty apparent what happened and we are all adults here – except Ray, hahaha!
Please do not send flowers, I think they are dead when they are cut – no chocolate, it takes me a whole year to eat a box of Thin Mints – so I think you get the picture. Your prayers, good wishes and understanding are enough.
Very soon, Team Shelly and I will come up with another date and we will get this thing done!
Love to all of you and thank you again for your understanding.
As ever,
Pam