By: Rebecca Witherspoon, July 11, 2025
I’ve always believed in being transparent, especially with those who follow my work, my writing, and my service to the community. So I wanted to share why I might not be as present—in person, online, or in politics—for the next few months.
Last week, my husband underwent urgent spinal surgery to remove part of a large tumor pressing against his spine. Due to the tumor’s proximity to his spinal cord, it wasn’t possible to remove it all. The surgeons also had to place rods, screws, and pins into his thoracic spine, as one of his vertebrae had been destroyed by the tumor. While we’re grateful for the skilled hands that performed this complex surgery, he is now facing a long and painful recovery—one that requires both time and constant care.
This is not his first battle with cancer. He’s already been managing two separate types of cancer for many years – one thankfully well-controlled and the other a bit more complicated. But this most recent diagnosis has introduced a new and uncertain chapter in our lives. We’re still learning the extent to which this disease has already affected his body, and we don’t yet know how he’ll respond to treatments or even what his long-term quality of life will look like.
What we do know is that this cancer is not curable and is most likely terminal. And yet, we’re at peace. Our focus is not just on fighting disease, but on preserving dignity, purpose, and love through whatever lies ahead. Maintaining a positive and faith-center perspective is so important. We live in a world where the just and the unjust alike suffer, and we are not immune to suffering simply because we have faith in the God of this universe. For “we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” That doesn’t mean that suffering is eliminated, it just means that God has it all worked out already. Our job is to walk our journey with our eyes focused on Him and He’ll work it all out according to His will, whatever that may be.
In light of all this, my priorities have shifted. I will still be here—but my presence will be quieter, more focused. My blog may not be updated as regularly. My political activity will be significantly reduced for now. Instead, I’ll be prioritizing what matters most: caring for my husband, fulfilling my responsibilities at work and as a village trustee, and taking care of myself amidst it all.
When I do return to writing, you may see my focus shift a bit—toward healing, caregiving, truth-telling, and navigating life with grace in hard times. But rest assured, I’m not going anywhere.
To our many friends, family members, community members, and colleagues who have surrounded us with prayers, meals, texts, encouragement, and even just your quiet presence—thank you. Your support means more than I can ever put into words.
And to those who have chosen these past eight months or so to spread falsehoods and to maliciously defame me and others in my community because you were offended by one our votes as Village Board members, you are not my priority—but you also are not forgotten. I remain committed to truth, transparency, and protecting the integrity of our local leadership. That work continues, even if my primary focus has shifted a bit … for now. As the saying goes, “The Truth shall set you free.” Some will accept the truth and others won’t—while I hope many will accept the truth, it’s not my responsibility to force people to open their eyes, just to put the truth in front of them. What they choose to do with it is up to them.
With peace and deep gratitude,
Rebecca
Musings By Rebecca 