If you saw General Conference, you definitely noticed that Elder Robert D Hales looked significantly different. He looked “puffy”, spoke from a chair, and had oxygen tubes in his nose. He didn’t say what was wrong with him. Elder Ballard and President Monson both referred to how it was nice to see him, but no one shared what was wrong.
Yesterday and today the Church News & Events page, the LDS Newsroom, and the Deseret News all posted about a statement issued by Elder Hales:
I continue to work with doctors and physical therapists to regain my strength. I am grateful for the faith and prayers that made it possible for me to participate in general conference and resume my responsibilities. I am touched by the many kind expressions of love and support shown to me and your continued prayers.
None of the three sources I mentioned talk about what the health challenges were that Elder Hales faced.
Do you think it was a good idea to post the statement, or does it lead to more questions? Part of me says they should share what is wrong with him. There are millions of people who are concerned about him, and continually using the phrase “health challenges” seems pointless. Another part of me says that it is his health, and he deserves privacy, so we should all back off. Yet another part of me says that if Elder Hales shared what is wrong with him, there would be critics of the Church who would use that as an excuse to talk about the “old men” who lead the Church and that they aren’t capable.
I’m still not settled on what I think the best way is to handle this, but I do know that I hope for the best for Elder Hales. I hope and pray that he isn’t suffering, and that he recovers.
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I, too, wonder about Elder Hales’ health. I would just like to know what his current health issues are, though I think they are probably heart-related (I believe he has had heart problems for much of the last twenty years).
Having great love for him and his teachings, it would be quite a loss to me personally, if we were to lose him. His talk in conference was so inspired and inspiring. He has certainly been through the “furnace of affliction” and the Lord speaks through him!
My brothers and I had Christmas dinner with our Grandfather over the weekend. I’ve had a lot of people asking about his health status, and people need to understand that while He does appreciate prayers and good thoughts that people have for him, his health and personal life is not the congregation’s business. Not trying to offend anyone, but please be understanding in this.