May 22, 2019. . .

May 22nd last year around 5 am walked into Baystate Med Ctr with JoAnn; short time later rolled into pre-surgery for what ultimately was a double-header, open heart procedure to repair an aorta aneurysm and 5 restrictions. Two teams, 4 hours on heart/lung machine, into recovery 12 hours later, regained consciousness after midnight, 10 days in hospital. Recovery period 3 months. There with some tough moments but overall all went very, very well. [Despite the three laser lithotripsy procedures to remove six kidney stones during the recovery.]
I owe much to many: the surgeons, doctors, nurses, staff who attended to me throughout. The technology involved is mind boggling [I remember when the first open heart surgery was done 50 plus years ago.] And to family, friends, associates and letterpressers all over for one-on-one assistance, kind words, prayers and best wishes.
My greatest love, respect and affection must be directed to the lady on my left. The hours, days, nights, weeks of care, concern and devotion were boundless. Her attentiveness to my progress and the myriad of care-giving chores she performed were endless. Indeed, there were laughs and tears. . . and there are stories to tell. Like the night that I. . . ahh, I better not.
Anyways, I'm doing very well, working in the commercial shop, getting things done in the store. Patiently waiting until we can all get out and around again. Indeed, life began for me again one year ago!