Aloha, friends and family. It’s been a while since my last personal update. I’ll get into my big news in a moment but first a little update on my health.
As noted in a previous blog posted by Jennifer, I underwent emergency surgery in mid-December due to a ruptured colon. I spent ten days in the hospital and came out with a colostomy bag, which we’re still getting used to. The colostomy bag has actually made our lives easier, which is sort of ironic.
During my stay at the hospital, due to the nature of my surgery and the fact that I already have a gastrostomy tube (a.k.a., g-tube), I was also put on tube feeding.
Since then, I completed a barium swallow test and was cleared to resume eating by mouth without risk of aspiration, but we have decided to stay on tube feeding. The switch to formula also ensures that I’m getting the proper amount of nutrition and helps me to maintain my weight.
In fact, for the first time since my diagnosis, I’ve actually put on weight which is actually a good thing for anyone living with ALS. I will also continue to eat small amounts of food by mouth for comfort and pleasure. The other day I was craving a Taco Bell burrito, which I enjoyed thoroughly.
With the recommendation of my physical therapist and primary care physician, we opted to secure a hospital bed for my comfort and ease of care. Insurance approved the hospital bed in record time, and it has replaced my recliner in the living room where Jennifer, our caregiver Fammy, and my physical therapist all have better access to me. After a few weeks of getting used to it, I now find it very comfortable.
Now for the big announcement. After almost 40 years of my broadcast career, I informed my board in January of my decision to step down as president and general manager of the stations. While my mind remains sharp and my heart is still passionate about my work, my ALS progression has impacted my body in such a way that it is becoming more difficult to maintain my energy levels to effectively do my work. I had promised my board when my diagnosis was made, that I would provide a six-month notice so that we have a smooth transition between me and my successor.
ALS has now not just robbed me of my physical abilities but of my dream career. I thought I would be in radio and at HPR until my retirement age. I will be stepping down from my dream job and career on July 31 of this year. Click here to read the press release and to read my letter to our donors.
My life will change in a dramatic way after July 31, as I will be giving up my compensation in exchange for disability payments, which will not cover all of our expenses. Jennifer and I will be working on plans to ensure we are able to meet our financial obligations while still maintaining my care.
My spirit has been lifted by the many notes, emails, and cards I have received from our donors and listeners. I have been lucky to have worked in the field that was my dream as his young child growing up in Puerto Rico listening to scratchy AM radio. Many of my high school friends always remember me as the teen club DJ, which was the launching pad for my continued interest in you radio career.
We will continue to keep everyone posted on any further developments. Oh, and we have a new dog in our lives. Jennifer rescued Coco, who is the most gentle and chill dog ever. She has even ridden with me to my office.
Thank you again for your continued love and support. Jennifer and I are grateful for your friendship and love.
Thanks so much for the update Jose. You have the best smile ever! Sorry your career is ending but you lived out a dream of yours!! And you lived it with passionate! What a thrill and achievement to carry with you every day. OMG I remember in Ft. Buchanan, dancing to a new Sugarhill Gang song and you were singing the song loud and I was thinking to myself “How does Jose know the words when the song just came out?”. 🙂 I am proud of your career. I have KNCT playing all the time. So Coco is a doll!!! So so cute! Keep your spirits soaring. You are so loved!
You and Jen are such inspirations. Anytime you speak of your radio career, I picture that KNCT program guide that had you and I on the cover! I think I still have at least a picture of it somewhere. I am retiring in May and one thing I want to do is go through boxes and boxes of pictures. I will be sure to forward it on if I come across it.
Keep fighting the good fight and spreading the word about ALS.
Dear José,
You and Jennifer are an inspiration to me in countless ways, both from
a professional and from a personal standpoint. Con mucho cariño y aloha, siempre.
Dear Jose, you are and will always be an inspiration – I am blown away by your transparency and dedication to to sharing your journey with us all. I saw the notice about your retirement and know that HPR will never be the same without you. I didn’t know you back in your early DJ days 😉 but I was fortunate to meet you in 2018 signing up to volunteer from Maui on the Community Advisory Committee. I was touched by you then and nothing has changed. Mahalo isn’t really a big enough word to say – I love following your journey and send love from Maui to you and your amazing family. One thing I hope helps you carry on is knowing what a difference you’ve made to all you meet – even the ones who showed up late in the game. Carry on my courageous friend! Sending a hug Jose-like hug!! Vika
Thank you for another helpful update, my friend. I laughed out loud about the burrito. But I know this hurts to resign from this job that you’re so perfectly suited for. I’m so sorry. You are loved a whole lot by a whole lot. 💜
i doubt i will ever crave a taco bell burrito- but good for you! seize every moment, my friend. much love. 🫶🏽
Joy Fisher
I moved to Hawaii from California and, over the years, I’ve decided that HPR is one of the two uniquely well-organized enterprises in the state of Hawaii (the other one, in my judgment is the Hawaii State Library System). I know you must have had a lot to do with the organization and success of HPR, so I just want to thank you, as a listener, for this benefit, which enriches my life every day.
Mi amigo Jose, I admire your spirit. You will always have a special place in my heart
Jose, OF COURSE it’s hugely regretted by thousands of folks all around Hawaii (and the globe) that you will be stepping away from the leadership of The Only Hawaii Radio Station To Listen To. However, we understand that God had other plans, and so who are we to judge?? Your new “job” is very demanding and time-consuming, and though we’ll clearly miss you at the helm of KHPR, we know this is the best road for you. Therefore we won’t dwell on the negative; we’ll look at the positive as you’re now given more time to enjoy Coco, and, oh yes, dear, dear Jennifer. What a superwoman! I hope you’ll continue your wonderful Team José updates. They’re exceedingly well-written and informative. Fondly, Alice Tucker, A Charter Member of The Jose Fajardo Fan Club
Love you José!
Thanks for the updates and sharing your journey.
I feel so lucky that you led HPR for 8 years, during which time I made it my go-to station for programs of all sorts. THANK you!
Jose, we are annual visitors to Kona from St. Petersburg, Florida, and I remember you from when we lived in Orlando. Your voice on the radio will certainly be missed, but your spirit is strong and it will remain present at NPR. I have a 40 year old cousin with ALS and she is declining. Your blog has been inspirational for me. Continue pressing on and you remain in our hearts and prayers.
Sending love your way!
Dear Jose and Jennifer,
You are both in prayers and thoughts daily. Your love and commitment to move through life with joy, no matter what your challenges is an inspiration. Sending warmest aloha, Carolann and Seth
Jose, you are amazing! What an inspiration. I marvel at your sweet spirit and determination. I have so many great memories from our wonderful little group at CTC. Wishing you the very best in your retirement. Stay strong and keep fighting my friend.
Kim Allen Bollaert
Jose, you made me feel so at home at HPR. Your leadership paved the way for so much goodness that will surely remain with the station after you step down. Thank you for giving the station and its listeners your all for as long as you could. Thank you also for your sharing and the inviting us into your and Jennifer’s lives.
You’re amazing and I’m so grateful to know you!