Thank you to my nation of supporters.

I almost don't know what to say when I see the image of a tee shirt being sold in my honor.

Yes, I am battling cancer. And yes, I have been writing about high school sports for more than two decades for the Daily Record/Sunday News, along with GameTimePA.com. Yes, it's true, that I have become a part of YAIAA swimming community because of it, but the idea, effort and encouragement provided by York Suburban swimmers Emily Schmittle and Will Massey has me floored.

Imagine two high school student-athletes going out of their way to honor and help someone so much older, who is not a family member. I can not thank those two incredible people enough. Then you add in the "Navaroli Nation" Facebook page already has nearly 400 followers, I am even more amazed.

And that's not all. Former Red Lion swimming star Morgan Pfaff, in the midst of training for her freshman campaign at Rutgers University, created a Facebook page titled, "I Swim for Steve" which has 150 followers. Talk about inspiring.

I am currently in the fifth week of a rigorous daily radiation and weekly chemotherapy treatment and have two weeks to go. There have been some tough times and will be more to come. I haven't been able to swallow or eat anything for nearly three weeks and have lost 30 pounds (though, that may not be that a bad thing, considering my previous bulk). My biggest issue has been the inability to hold down the liquid diet that gets inserted via a feeding tube because of the gag issues caused by the tumor in my throat.

At times, this has indeed been a rough process. But I draw strength from those supporting me at home, back at the office, and especially by those in Navaroli Nation. You are getting me through this. You are my strength, my motivation and my inspiration.

I will get through this because of you and saying thank you simply doesn't cut it.

But, thank you all so much.