While the recent coverage of Steve Jobs and his health has ranged from the respectful to downright tabloid blogism, Apple and their CEO have remained their usual utterly-silent selves. Until now. In one of his rare open letters -- and the first ever on personal matters -- Steve Jobs says:

I’ve decided to share something very personal with the Apple community so that we can all relax and enjoy the show tomorrow.

The letter does not directly say he dropped out of Macworld for health reasons, and therefore technically should not vindicate some of the more disturbing speculation we've seen lately. Jobs concludes by reaffirming his goal of always putting Apple first, and hopes the Apple community supports him in his recovery. Apple's Board of Directors put out a simultaneous release re-stating their support as well.

For TiPb's part, we hope everyone joins us in wishing Steve Jobs a quick and complete recovery, and a healthy and happy 2009.