Monday, August 29, 2016

No One Is Alone

Someone is on your side....no one is alone

I first heard this Sondheim song sitting in the Martin Beck Theater in NYC shortly after Into the Woods opened on Broadway and after three productions later as Musical Director it remains a potent philosophy.  Today was filled with errands, reflection, and much communication with my nearest and dearest.  So as the Pirates load the bases, I still know its the Cubs year and its my year to find more strength and love.
I will post again post surgery and I am not alone, truly.

The Mightier Ted

Sunday, August 28, 2016

I've got a lot of livin' to do...there's music to play, places to go, people to see

Continuing the "Bye Bye Birdie" theme....I've Got a lot of living to do"

Michelle and I have had a good weekend.  A Cubs Win...A Cubs loss but there's still another game with the Dodgers in the series.  Last night we had our traditional summer birthday celebration with high school friends Mary and Dale and the spouses.  Lots of good food, laughs, and not too many of the high school stories that get retold every year.  When you are facing major surgery it really makes you appreciate the longevity of traditions.

I've been overwhelmed but not surprised by your response to this new blog and the news I shard yesterday.  Your comments, prayers, and love help in so many ways.  I saw the love I had taken for granted during my first health crisis.  As a result of that I have met so many of you through rehab, Second City, The Mighty Ted, support groups, theater productions, voice lessons, Music Theater Writing Classes...suffice it to say, I've got plenty more to say and I will say it.

I reflected on a great many things during the church service this morning.  Yes, we got up for the 8:30 service this morning so we could worship in the sanctuary.  Both Jim and Gretta are aware of my week ahead and we spent some time on Thursday talking and praying.  DGFUMC is important in Michelle and my life and as Pastor Jim preached on God's surprises and God's mysteries I know this surgery is both.  We were unaware of the severity of the heart problem and where it goes from here is a mystery but I do have the strength to get through this Mightier than ever.

Ted

Saturday, August 27, 2016

Put on a Happy Face

Grey sky's are gonna clear up, put on a happy face!

Here's a new source for news, information, and, of course, show tunes as I prepare for open heart surgery on Monday.  I sent out an email to my peeps in River City yesterday, have talked with many of my dear friends and family this week, and will spend this weekend enjoying life.

Here's an edited version of info to my Music Man cast yesterday:
This is not the best way to share this news and I have been contacting many friends personally, but this the most efficient way to let all of you know that Tuesday will be an important day for me.  

I will be going to Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove to undergo open heart by pass surgery.  It has come as a surprise and as a result of blockage discovered via an angiogram.  They expect surgery to begin at 7 am and last about five hours.  This is serious stuff but the surgeon is the best the hospital has on staff.  I fear that my recovery will be slow and difficult due to effects of my stroke seven years ago.  I need your energy, love and prayers more than ever.

I will be setting up a new blog to keep everyone informed and there may be information from time to time on Facebook.

From having survived a stroke and rehab I know it's in my nature to find positive outcomes in adversity.  When I know more after surgery and when I can have visitors you will be the first to know.  Nurse Mary Vercellino aka Mrs Paroo has been a comfort and confidante throughout this week and she can field questions.  

So there it is.  My mind is racing with all the things I have accomplished and all the things I have yet to accomplish.  My faith is strong.  I know God has more in store as I struggle, continue to heal from the stroke, and forge ahead.

Being the attention whore I am, I need your thoughts, prayers, and energy as Tuesday draws close.  I know I can be strong and I know how to ask for help.

The Mighty Ted