Richard,

in my opinion an EXCUSE differs from a REASON because a REASON explains why alternatives were truly impossible to pursue. An EXCUSE is an attempt to make people believe there was a valid REASON, when in fact there wasn't.

Illness qualifies as a valid reason for having one's attention diverted! So please don't say its an excuse!

I hope 2015 sees better health for you and your family, and that you will make some headway in directions that are more fun and fulfilling than mailing checks to doctors' offices.