Dan has given a lot of his time already to his fans and faithful readers. I understand why you would feel alienated, but understand that Dan is (most likely) not doing this to punish his faithful readers, and therefore you should try your hardest to let go of those feelings. It is nothing personal, and I believe Dan is in his full right to stop whenever he wants to. I truly hope this isn't permanent, but Dan is ultimately the person who is making the decision: it is his work and time that go into writing the stories, after all.
A heads up: Anyone who makes a comment attacking Dan because of his decision is just not right. You are in your full right to inquire of course. I hope we don't get to the point where immature comments are made about his decision. Let the man be. It's his time, his life, his work, and he owes absolutely nothing to you. Being spiteful only makes things worse.
Maddy (:
Edit: I am in no way implying that people shouldn't be honest; after all, honesty is the best policy. What I mean is that one should always be sensitive in these situations. Constructive, not destructive.