Struck by cancer in 2004, Steve Jobs struggled to fight off the disease while carrying out his CEO duties.
Although he was ultimately able to rid his body of a type of pancreatic cancer that doctors said was very rare, the disease left Jobs rail thin and unable to assimilate enough protein.
In 2009 Jobs announced he was taking a medical leave of absence. It was later revealed he had undergone a liver transplant.
Following the operation, Jobs returned to Apple, only to take another medical leave in January, this year.
Providing no timeframe for a potential return (as he had done in the past), this last medical leave was indeed thought to be Jobs’ last, before he would ultimately resign as CEO.
As Jobs himself puts it, “that day has come:”
August 24, 2011
Letter from Steve Jobs
To the Apple Board of Directors and the Apple Community:
I have always said if there ever came a day when I could no longer meet my duties and expectations as Apple’s CEO, I would be the first to let you know. Unfortunately, that day has come.
I hereby resign as CEO of Apple. I would like to serve, if the Board sees fit, as Chairman of the Board, director and Apple employee.
As far as my successor goes, I strongly recommend that we execute our succession plan and name Tim Cook as CEO of Apple.
I believe Apple’s brightest and most innovative days are ahead of it. And I look forward to watching and contributing to its success in a new role.
I have made some of the best friends of my life at Apple, and I thank you all for the many years of being able to work alongside you.
Steve
source: psperspective
