We all say it—“It’s great to see you.” It’s one of those everyday phrases we toss around without thinking. But over the last six weeks, those words have taken on a deeper, more personal meaning for me.

In mid-May, as I was working on the weekly newsletter for Music & Art by the Sea, I was suddenly hit with flashes of light and blurred vision. A scare for anyone—but especially alarming for me, since I rely entirely on one eye for my sight.

I immediately reached out to my longtime ophthalmologist, Dr. Russ Nelligan. After a quick exam, he delivered some tough news: I had a tear and a partial retinal detachment. Within an hour, I was en route to Southeastern Retina Specialists for emergency treatment under the care of Dr. John Sullivan.

That initial procedure was a crucial—though temporary—step in preserving my vision. Just 48 hours later, I was in surgery. The road to recovery began, and thankfully, it’s gone well. I’m healing steadily and on track to be back at 100% by mid-August.

I’m sharing this journey for a couple of important reasons.

First, I want to encourage everyone to treat medical issues with urgency. My doctors unanimously told me that if I’d waited even a day or two longer, I could’ve faced permanent vision loss. Quick action truly made all the difference.

Second, I have some deeply heartfelt thanks to give. Huge gratitude to my emergency driver, “Dancin’ Mark” Lilly, who got me to the Retina Center without delay. A special shout-out to my incredible wife, Gaye, for holding my hand and doing everything she could to care for me. While Gaye is an amazing wife and mom, she’ll be the first to admit that caregiving usually isn’t her lane—but she stepped up in every way.

Thank you to my dear friend Andrea Samuels for the delicious chicken pot pie (comfort food at its finest) and her always-reliable nursing wisdom.  Our IT volunteer Wayne Fusco stepped in and did a stellar job as guest emcee.  And of course, a big round of applause for the dedicated volunteers who kept the Wednesday concerts running smoothly in my absence. You’re all rock stars.

So, the next time we cross paths and I say, “It’s great to see you,” just know—it’s not just a friendly phrase. I truly mean it from the heart. I’m genuinely thankful to see you.