Rea has had peritonitis and stomach complications since 1994, as well as several operations. In 2000 was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and somewhere in between 2000–2001 Rea underwent a Whipple procedure, by which he lost the head of the pancreas and part of duodenum, bile duct, and gall bladder. Since having his pancreas removed, Rea has had problems with diabetes and a generally weaker immune system and has to take thirty-four pills and seven injections a day. He has since undergone several serious operations. Nevertheless, he found even greater appreciation for life, his family, and the things he loves.
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