Ernie A.S. posted a note for Steve that says: Hey, this surgery ain't for p#@&ies and somehow I survived it really well. If you survived a major stroke, then this'll be a walk-in-the-park for you.

Susan Smith posted a note for Steve that says: Stay focused Steve and you will get through it all and get your life back. Keep us all posted.

Barry Brice posted a note for Steve that says: Hey man, every day I think of you and yours! I know it will be tough, but with the great support system you have You will get through the difficult time and come back and enjoy some more Hawaiian sun in the easy time.

Your local haole Brother B

David Mechler posted a note for Steve that says: Good Morning Steve,

I know you'd like to be Ten Years Younger but we have know each other for longer than 20 years, try 30 Years!! It's always great to see you, I love the fact that we can pick up right where we left off no matter how long it's been since we've seen each other! Glad you had a good Turkey Day and if I don't see you before Christmas...I Hope You and your Family have a Very Merry Christmas!

Love ya Buddy, Dave Mechler.

Jim Jones posted a note for Steve that says: Steve
Good for you! Your date gets closer. Reading others' journals certainly helps to prepare you. My advice to anyone awaiting surgery is to focus on whatever good exercise and nutrition that is possible. I think it makes a difference post-op. Best.

Susan Smith, Pre-op and waiting posted a note for Steve that says: Your day is coming soon. What hospital are having the surgery in? Is Newberg near Portland? Just wondering as I have family in Portland. Get that foot healed . I have had that and it is tough to get through. Look at the foot as just a warm up for it up ahead and you will do just fine.

Ernie A.S. posted a note for Steve that says: Don't sneeze. Coughing hurts, too but you have to do it. The rest you DO want to do. Especially if you are like me and feel kind of bloated for a good while after surgery. I needed to burp and fart so I could make room to eat food.

Gabi x posted a note for Steve that says: Well Steve most of what your friend's dad says is correct. However, it hurt me not one bit to laugh and I managed to find something to laugh about each day. Laughter comes from the belly not the chest area and is very healing. But thinking about it if you down a bellyful of beans the reaction would make you and others around you laugh right? LOL

Your Mother In Law posted a note for Steve that says: Steve, my e-mail address did not get on this before I hit the send. Sorry, lindariffle108@yahoo.com

David and I are praying for you. We all look forward to you feeling better.

Linda and David

Jim Jones posted a note for Steve that says: Steve
Glad you had a chance to stop by. I will share recovery tips in the coming weeks. One idea that has helped is this. Use Amazon to buy a large digital scale and a digital cuff for blood pressure and pulse. Have a digital thermometer. Create a paper log because once a day you will need to take your vitals. Also, identify a top rated home health care service for you to use when you come home. Bring that info with you to the hospital. They can make it part of your discharge instructions. You can control the quality and reputation of the home health care service. Good luck, my friend!

Susan Smith, not an alias posted a note for Steve that says: Rooty-toot toot! Good sound advise for sure. Keep us updated.

Taire posted a note for Steve that says: I am so proud of how far you have come over the past 7 years. Your hard work has been a blessing to all of us. Keep it up mister. I want to grow old with you. I love you my sweet man.

Dave Nickerson posted a note for Steve that says: Steve, Our family echo's what Shannon said. We are here for you and your family. Your a great friend and a charter member of the "Vortex Club". Let us know if you need anything!

Shannon Orlando posted a note for Steve that says: Steve,
Rest assured that Jeff and I and all your 4H family will help you all in any way we can. You are here because you are a great dad to those girls and they need you around! Not to mention, a terrific friend we are blessed to have met. :)

Jim Jones posted a note for Steve that says: Steve:

Welcome! You certainly are correct. "The day has finally come" applies to all of us on this site. I am glad you have your date. I have found the community here to be incredibly helpful and supportive. We are all traveling the same journey. I'd encourage you to ask questions, share your story and check out the journals. It sure has helped me. Welcome aboard, Steve. All the best.