Get Well Soon, Mr. Jobs

Steve Jobs, co-founder and most recognizable figurehead of Apple, father of the iPod, isn't feeling well. A cancer survivor, Jobs announced yesterday that he'll be taking a leave of absence for medical reasons, until the end of June.

No word on exactly what's wrong with him.  There was talk of a hormonal imbalance, and recently he's said that his illness is more complex and he's stepping away.

Investors are understandably uneasy, but Jobs has said,  "As CEO, I plan to remain involved in major strategic decisions while I am out."

Keep reading for Steve Jobs' complete letter to Apple employees.

Team,

I am sure all of you saw my letter last week sharing something very personal with the Apple community. Unfortunately, the curiosity over my personal health continues to be a distraction not only for me and my family, but everyone else at Apple as well. In addition, during the past week I have learned that my health-related issues are more complex than I originally thought.

In order to take myself out of the limelight and focus on my health, and to allow everyone at Apple to focus on delivering extraordinary products, I have decided to take a medical leave of absence until the end of June.

I have asked Tim Cook to be responsible for Apple's day to day operations, and I know he and the rest of the executive management team will do a great job. As CEO, I plan to remain involved in major strategic decisions while I am out. Our board of directors fully supports this plan.

I look forward to seeing all of you this summer.

Steve

Rest, relax, and get well soon, Mr. Jobs.  We can't wait to see what new ideas come up when you get back.  --Leslie Shapiro

The Washington Post

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