Earlier today, Apple published a letter from Steve Jobs, announcing his medical leave of absence, effective immediately until June of this year:
“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”
This letter is a sharp contrast from the one he published through Apple only nine days ago:
“…The remedy for [my newly diagnosed] nutritional problem is relatively simple and straightforward, and I’ve already begun treatment. But, just like I didn’t lose this much weight and body mass in a week or a month, my doctors expect it will take me until late this Spring to regain it. I will continue as Apple’s CEO during my recovery.”
Over the next few weeks, you’ll hear pundits and other tech writers say things like, “Steve owes me/stockholders/you an update/explanation.” That’s BS. He’s the CEO of an influential, international tech company. But Steve Jobs is not Apple and Apple is not Steve Jobs. While the market might not see this distinction right away, it will eventually.
Steve is also a human being. I wish him and his family all that they need over the next few months. Good luck, Steve. I hope we see you soon.
