Charlie McLaughlin posted a note for Richard that says: I hope Teresa feels better and that you are still on schedule for release on Saturday and that you all can be home for the holidays. I also hope that you are feeling a little stronger each day.

Jim Jones posted a note for Richard that says: Hey Richard
Congrats on that all important first BM. That is one of the magic keys for discharge as we know. And, I think many of us have had our hospital moments. I guess it is part of the package.

The best of success with the pacemaker on Friday. Stay warm. Glad Teresa is getting some shopping done. I have an idea some may involve a holiday? Heal well.

Sidney Nash posted a note for Richard that says: Richard,

Good news to hear that surgery was a success. Consider that pacemaker an insurance policy! God knows you can handle this and you are proving him correct! Merry Christmas

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Richard that says: I'm glad I wasn't right there with you! I'd be soaked in urine. And not my own. (For a change)

The Carriere's posted a note for Richard that says: Love your openness Rich, that's what makes you you! Makes us all feel like we are right there with you. So glad Teresa is filling her time constructively. Praying the medication switch goes smoothly to allow for the implant so you can get back home. Looking forward to seeing you. Sounds like they are taking good care of you, seems those kisses are working.

Katie and Joe Boehm posted a note for Richard that says: Rich,
You talk about the urine thing like it's a new problem. Let's get Theresa on the blog...the one who probably cleans the bathrooms at home. Let's see what she has to say, I'll bet she'd tell the doctors you're back to normal :) Sorry to hear about the delay with the pace maker but if it's giving you security, in the long run it's worth it! all our best, The Boehms

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Richard that says: I urinated about an hour ago and I peed on everything, but the toilet. Got it all over the shoes, the shower, the trash can, hit the cat twice, and the dog once. I was half soaked, too. I usually manage to get it in the toilet maybe 3 times out of 10 at best, and I'm 3 and half months post-op. I seem to aim a little better when I'm sober, but not much.

Glad you had a bowel movement. I bet that was a load off.

Good luck with the pacemaker and getting discharged. Glad you are doing pretty well after surgery. Good luck and good healing to you.

Carol Jackson posted a note for Richard that says: oh do I remember those days in the hospital...bathroom, wearing the hospital gown.....who cares....glad I didn;t have a lot of visitors!

Glad you are on the mend. Stay positive!

Charlie McLaughlin posted a note for Richard that says: Loved the update - you sound like a new puppy - can't leave the mud room until your potty trained. The good news with the pacemaker is you will get to go through the Security express line at the airport. Good to hear that you will get to come home on Saturday. I hope you have been able to keep up with your walking. One who gains strength by overcoming obstacles possesses the only strength which can overcome adversity! Looking forward to seeing you soon.

Susan Smith posted a note for Richard that says: Richard, sounds like you were wee wee all the way home. Sorry bad humor. Soon you will get home and continue the recovery. Still on the prayer list. Keep posting.

Nancy Briga posted a note for Richard that says: Richard,
I finally got to your journal thanks to your direction and caught up on your progress. So glad everything that has been accomplished is good. I know it will continue with any additions deemed necessary by your doctor and your determination. Thoughts and prayers are with you, Teresa and your family always. Take care.

Joanna O'Brien posted a note for Richard that says: Hi Richard and Theresa,
I'm so glad the surgery is over and I will pray that your pain subsides. Everyday YOU ARE HEALING. I hope that whatever happens with the pacemaker is is exactly what your body needs to be as strong as a bull!
Sending all healing thoughts in your direction. Also, if the pain meds aren't working ask if they do any alternative pain management like reiki (they do it here at children's and it's unusual but it helped Evan tremendously)

Joanna

Auntie Cori posted a note for Richard that says: Hi Rich,

I hate to hear you are experiencing pain, but that should end soon. Rich, remember: every day brings you back closer to perfect health. There is a happy ending to this story.

We miss you, want you home soon. LOVE YOU XOOXOXXXO

Kelly posted a note for Richard that says: Rich, we are here thinking of you! Get well soon.
Love,
Kelly, Joe and Ben

The Felicicchias posted a note for Richard that says: We are so glad to hear you are up and moving around. Keep on moving! We are praying for you and your family through these tough times. I know Jason and Phil were excited to be there for you. We truly wish you the very best and will keep you in our hearts and prayers.

Rosie posted a note for Richard that says: Sending a hug, to all of you. Guess it has to be baby steps for recovery, Rich, you are setting a wonderful example for the rest of us. I've always liked your jokes (I'm not sure why, either)
Now I'm learning your true depths. You are teaching all of us, that each day is really a gift, and that all the little things should be taken in stride, as you face the big hurdles with dignity! I'm not gonna let anything bother me today, not even Ed :)

Paul Reiter posted a note for Richard that says: Richard - I remember how much your visits meant to me not only as I faced surgery, but in my recovery. Another Teresa (Teresa of Avila, Spain) wrote in the 1500's "From moment to moment one can bear much." As you get stronger each day by walking remember that you cannot fall beneath the arms of God. Take care and know that St. Louis offers prayers for you.

Charlie McLaughlin posted a note for Richard that says: Good to hear from you and we will continue to pray for positive outcomes and a continued strong recovery. As the marines say - pain is weakness leaving the body. It is great that even though you are experiencing pain you are still able to walk - walking will make your overall body stronger. What a Bears game today - it is great that Phil and Jason were able to see the Bears victory in person - Go Bears!

Susan Smith posted a note for Richard that says: Richard praying that you will not need a pacemaker,but if you do you will handle it. Take a day at a time. Walk and breath...rest and do it again. god is watching out for you.

The Carriere's posted a note for Richard that says: So good to hear you are getting up and around. Your positive outlook and acceptance of your situation will only enhance your recovery and prove to be an inspiration to all. You are a nurse's dream patient! We miss you.

Jim Jones posted a note for Richard that says: Hey Richard
Delighted your Bears won. (not pleased my Pats lost)

Sorry about the pain. I think walking and the spirometer helped me some with the muscles and lungs. Regardless, it hurts.
I hope tomorrow is a better day for you. Hang in there and keep giving kisses out. Sounds like you are building a great fan club at CC. My best.

Auntie Cori posted a note for Richard that says: Hi Richard,

Great to hear you are making good post op progress. Just as I expected, you are the model patient, making others smile just hours after a nine-hour surgery. I am so pleased and so proud of you on all counts. Just remember to save that 2,000 lb bag of Kisses for your saintly wife, she deserves that...and more. LOVE YOU oxox

Dan P posted a note for Richard that says: Hi Richard,

Glad to hear your doing well. Keep up the good work.

Jim Jones posted a note for Richard that says: Hey Richard
You have a great post. But, you are doing all the hard work. I am just on the sidelines cheering you on!

Today , your sons have tickets for the Bears/Browns? Go Bears! Hope they have a great time. (and I hope there is a win for the Pats!)

Glad the pain is better. Keep up your walking. I hope you have a solid day of recovery today. Best.

Uncle Stu posted a note for Richard that says: Renee, my favorite niece. Good talking to you today. Glad all went well as I knew it would. I was more concerned about your driving skills getting to Cleveland. The worst is over and each day you will be feeling better. Do me and the nursing staff a favor that when you go for your walks, be sure your hospital gown covers certain parts of your anatomy. You don't want to scare anybody.
I love you.
Uncle Stu

holly arnold posted a note for Richard that says: So glad the pain is so much better! You are progressing so quickly! Prayers are answered!
Best
Holly:)

Paul Reiter posted a note for Richard that says: Richard - So glad to hear that you are returning to your former self. Keep those kisses going - maybe your healing will go faster. All in the Reiter household send to you and to Teresa and the boys our loving friendship.

Charlie McLaughlin posted a note for Richard that says: Great to hear you were able to walk today - awesome progress! Go Ice Dogs, Go Bears and most importantly - Go Rich!!!

Mike Novak posted a note for Richard that says: Hey Rich, It sounds like you are doing
a lot better each time I see this site. This is great by the way.
Don't have a heart attack tomorrow when Cutler throws an interception! I will for you! Glad to hear the pain is going down and will see you soon at the Glacier.

Kim mor posted a note for Richard that says: Hey Rich and Teresa ,

So happy all is well. We are all thinking about u and wishing u a speedy recovery. The joke about the drug meds made us smile. The more jokes we hear the more confident we are that you are recovering. Teresa you must be exhausted! I hope u are taking time to rest as well. All our best to u and your 3 boys!!!!! Hugs and pecan tassie's😘. The mor's

barb posted a note for Richard that says: Richard,
So sorry to hear the pain is worse than last time, but I am sure everyday you will be feeling better. Your great spirit and positive outlook will hasten your full recovery. Thank you for keeping us posted.
The Entire Claus Family

Charlie McLaughlin posted a note for Richard that says: I was so motivated by the photo you sent to the Ice Dog Team yesterday that I did 3 spin classes in a row this morning at the health club! Rejoice - It is a gift to be alive!

The Carriere's posted a note for Richard that says: Good to hear from you Rich. Your outlook, despite the pain, is a testament to the kind of man you are. You have much love and support behind you every step of the way.

Lynn Ennis posted a note for Richard that says: Richard,
Sorry to hear the pain is worse...these first days are the hardest...try to relax and go moment to moment. I wish you all the best.

Paul Reiter posted a note for Richard that says: Richard- I am sorry that the pain and the recovery has been more difficult. I am grateful as well that you are alive, and I pray that God's strength and peace will be with you as you heal.

holly arnold posted a note for Richard that says: So glad you are doing so well. Out of ICU in no time; wow!! Praying the pain subsides!
Best
Holly

Vivian wilson posted a note for Richard that says: Hi Richard. Glad the worst is over for you. Hope the pain subsides soon and that you will continue to mend. My prayers for you will continue.
Vivian

Slobodan posted a note for Richard that says: Hi Richard,
Just to say hello. I am glad that everything went ok.
Time is your ally now. All the best from my family.

Joseph Kusiak posted a note for Richard that says: So happy you are doing well. Yes the surgery is like getting hit by a truck so just obey the doctors and nurses and rest.

Susan Smith posted a note for Richard that says: Richard, I hope the pain get under control so you can think about the recovery process. You are now through the biggest part and I know you and your wonderful attitude will bring you on to the next step. I am praying for your continued recovery (pain free).

The McLaughlin Family posted a note for Richard that says: Great to hear from you! Sorry to hear about all the pain but you are one tough guy with a great attitude so I think the pain will subside and you are going to recover quicker than most all people that go through this procedure. I am no doctor but I do know you and you have a strong spirit! Wishing the best for you!

John posted a note for Richard that says: Rich, so very glad everything went okay and sorry to hear you're in so much pain, hang in there buddy we'll see you soon back in Chicago. Time to rest and heal now.

Take care,

Jim Jones posted a note for Richard that says: Hey Richard
It is wonderful to hear from you. Jeez, that is a long surgery. Yes, our bodies do take a beating. So glad things went well for you. Please take care of yourself now and do what you can to stay on top of the pain. My best to you all.

Cindy Felicicchia posted a note for Richard that says: We've been wondering where you have been. We like the updates to see how you are doing. We hope it gets better soon with the pain. Keep being strong and will keep praying for you.

The Felicicchia Family

The Woodman posted a note for Richard that says: Renee,
If you're responding you can't be too messed up. I didn't send a response for at least 5 days post op. Of course that because Uncle Stu says I'm a wimp. The pain will go away.Keep on trucken.

The Manchik Family posted a note for Richard that says: Sorry you are in so much pain but glad you still your great sense of humor! Hang in there! You are in our thoughts.

Maureen Hoganson posted a note for Richard that says: Will keep all of you in our prayers! I just had my bicuspid aortic valve replaced (at age 46)--about 2 weeks ago--and am at home in the recovery process. I had planned to go to the Cleveland Clinic, but we had one of the best surgeons in the world in our own back yard, so we opted to go to Vanderbilt. Will pray for all of your travels during this busy time--and for a smooth, quick recovery for Richard!!!! Just take it one day at a time!

Rebecca DeMornay (and Fam) posted a note for Richard that says: Well Well Bootsie! Looks like you and the Fam got the best Hanukkah/Christmas present anyone could hope for! Congrats on a successful surgery and hope you are feeling comfortable soon. Love ya,

Auntie Cori posted a note for Richard that says: Hello Teresa and Richard, we are thrilled to hear the surgery is over and all went well. Our prayers have been answered! Thanks for keeping us in the know. Xxxooo love you.

Paul Reiter posted a note for Richard that says: Richard- keep the faith. My thoughts are with you in your healing. Be gentle with yourself and may your medications do the trick!