Intersecting circles

I'm sure you've seen one of those charts with multiple intersecting circles.  The central point of overlap signifies the event that impacts all circles.  I am about to have such an event.  My medical, personal, and professional circles are about to eclipse.

I will be having a two-part surgery to remove an invasive melanoma.  Part one will involve the removal of a silver dollar-sized portion of my scalp and the removal of a lymph node (location determined by isotope injection, but likely in the face or neck). Part two will involve additional incisions to give enough scalp pliability to close the wound without leaving a giant bald spot.

Clearly, on surgery days I will be out of commission. Depending on the recovery process, there may be additional days I'm "out of office" or unable or unwilling to be in public.

There may be facial swelling and bruising.  There will be a giant bandage on my head.  There will be sections of hair that had to be shaved.  All this to say, I'm not going to be looking or feeling my best.  Yet, life and work go on.  I don't have the luxury of hiding away for weeks or months to recover out of the public eye.

I share this for a few reasons. First, I'm hoping to avoid having to tell the story of "What happened?!" any more than necessary. Secondly, I work in an industry where I meet with a wide variety of people each week.  This information may serve to mitigate some of the potential awkward interactions that inevitably come when you are looking at someone with very noticeable injuries.

Thank you to all who have been praying for me and expressing your concern.  It is a stressful situation. I am honored to be part of such an incredible community that cares for me so deeply. I will appreciate the grace offered for times when I'm not on my "A game." 

I want to close by reminding us all that it's easy to have sympathy for someone with visible scars.  Many have to work and engage through chronic pain or other non-visible ailments.  May we approach each other with grace and respect, understanding that we seldom know about the wounds of others.