Alaska Mike needs good thoughts

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 19 Nov 06 - 06:58 AM

Good to see you back Mike - will look forward to you in chat again - when you can get there.

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 19 Nov 06 - 04:01 AM

My favourite get-well card says "Get Well Soon, You'll feel better"

and you do!

Keep up the good work

Love to you & Tawmmie

sandra (wishing you another concert deal, but no repeats on the oher experiences)

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: GUEST,Partridge
Date: 19 Nov 06 - 03:40 AM

So glad your on the mend

take care,
love
Pat xxx

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 19 Nov 06 - 01:08 AM

Excuse      typing,    jumping       down    joy.
      untidy       I am       up and       for

Now tell us about the little vac thingy in your nether regions. Precisely how was it used?

Loadsaluv

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: JennieG
Date: 19 Nov 06 - 12:03 AM

That is great news, so glad you are back! A big hug from Oz, for you and for Tawmmie, especially for Tawwmie - when are you having her medal struck? She deserves one!

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Gorgeous Gary
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 02:21 PM

Welcome Home Mike!

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Don Firth
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 12:53 PM

Whew!! We can all start breathing again! Welcome back, Mike!

Ye gawds, what an ordeal. But it sounds like you got enough material for a couple of spy novels, a possible plot treatment for a James Bond movie, and a whole batch of songs out of it. As Monty Python says, "Always look on the bright side of life."

We're looking forward to swapping a few more songs more when you're down this way again.

Don Firth

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 12:05 PM

Oh, WELCOME BACK MIKE!!

It's so good to know you're well and whole.

That's the problem with the Getaway. You get to meet these people, hug 'em, hear their songs, meet their loves, and next thing you know you're damn well caring about real people who are SO far away.

The joy we all are feeling in mudcat land must be magnified many times in your lovely wife and family.

Wait 'til you're still around the house a few weeks from now, though, it'll wear off ; )

Dani

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Nancy King
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 11:24 AM

Mike, it's SO great to hear from you! We've all been terribly worried, and it's wonderful to know you're getting back to whatever passes for normal now. I trust you're accepting virtual hugs -- be assured they're on their way! Some of 'em are for Tawmmie, too -- she's earned them!

We'll be expecting to hear that song at next year's Getaway!

Love to you both,
Nancy

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Seamus Kennedy
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 11:17 AM

Hey Mike! Great news...HBO offered me a multi-concert performance contract to be televised and syndicated.

I'll need guest performers.

Welcome back!

Seamus

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: wysiwyg
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 10:10 AM

Of course, "welcome back" means not just to Mudcat, but to your life.

And of course we supported Tawmmie (clearly the better half)-- you didn't give us the option of doing much for YOU!

~Susan
President, HBO
(Seamus was set to host your special till you bailed on the project and deprived him of that glory)

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Charley Noble
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 10:09 AM

Mike-

Your experience and escape is certainly worth several new verses of "Rise Again!"

Maybe, after you have some time to mediate, consume a steak or whatever you would like to sink your teeth into, you would initiate such a song challenge. Or I would be happy to do the honors.

Welcome back!

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: LilyFestre
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 09:53 AM

************HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY DANCE****************************

I'm so glad you are finally home...you have been dearly missed by all!

Lots of love,

Michelle

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Deckman
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 09:49 AM

Welcome back Mike! Have you got the title yet for the song you'll write about this adventure? CHEERS, Bob

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Rapparee
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 09:48 AM

Mike, listen to me. Listen carefully while I explain something.

"Bust a gut" is only an expression, not a command. When someone says to you, "I nearly bust a gut laughing" it means that they laughed hard and long. If your boss says, "I want you to bust a gut getting this done" it means to really work on something. It do NOT mean to literally bust a gut.

In the future, don't take everything so literally, okay? If you're confused, ask the Mudcat and we'll all help you to either understanding or confusion.

Now get those floors vacuumed!

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: DonMeixner
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 09:38 AM

For over a year, perhaps two I have avoided this side of the forum. I decided I won't be embroiled in politics again for any reason. The bad part is I missed this thread.

Mike I am sorry for your late health problems. I have a close friend who had the same problems as yours only his out come hasn't be as good as yours. The good part is there must surely be a song in this somewhere.

I'm sorry I wasn't here to wish you well but I do so now.

Be well.

Don Meixner

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: katlaughing
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 09:29 AM

Wow! Wasn't sure if we'd get to hear from you, again. Glad the miracles of modern medicine helped to pull you through! Welcome back and TAKE CARE!

All the best and lots of healing,

kat

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Sorcha
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 09:27 AM

What a relief!!!!! Happy Dance!!!! More songs!

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Linda Goodman Zebooker
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 09:17 AM

Welcome home, Mike. Hope your health rebounds as fast as possible. You and Tawmmie were greatly missed at the Getaway.

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: rumanci
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 08:56 AM

Welcome Home Mike

Love and hugs to you both
rum

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: artbrooks
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 08:53 AM

Good to hear that you are home, if not exactly up and about. Herself (the OT) wants to know if you managed to loose 50 pounds while you were laid up? If so, than it may be true that every cloud has a silver lining. Don't try to do too much too soon and listen to your therapists as well as she who must be obeyed...we missed you at the Getaway and are looking forward to meeting you in the flesh one of these days.

Art and Jenn Brooks

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: greg stephens
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 08:52 AM

Well, Mike, that bursting guts sounds not too good, but the trouble in Caracas and being tortured hanging upside in the ship: now, that is real suffering.And I'm really sorry the multi-concert tour had to be cancelled: treat it as postponed, it'll probably happen soon.
And,seriously, I am seriously glad how things are turning out. Good wishes to you both.

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Alaska Mike
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 08:39 AM

OK here's the story. In July, I had gastric bypass surgery to overcome the health problems of being a "jolly giant". My weight loss was coming along great, but I began to experience some problems in September. On October 16th, I drove myself to the emergency room because I was feeling a bit lousy and wanted to see if anything was really wrong. After arriving at the ER, I was quickly diagnosed as being a "sick SOB" and whisked off to surgery.

The doctors determined that the gastric bypass surgery had come unravelled. I had burst the surgical connections where my stomach reattaches to my intestines and several liters of undigested food, gastric fluids and bowel contents were released into my abdominal cavity. Everything was infected, parts of my gut already contained dead tissue, and I was on the very fine edge of death. No one knows how I was able to drive myself to the hospital in the condition I was in.

For the next 10 days I was enjoying a magnificent coma. I was kidnapped by the North Koreans, got into trouble with the authorities in Caracas, Venezuela, and was tortured (hung upside down in the hold of a ship). I don't recall why all these things happened, but you should know that I was victorious in all actions.

As I started to come out of my coma, even more wonderful events occurred. HBO offered me a multi-concert performance contract to be televised and syndicated. I was a bit confused by all this interest in my music since I was unable to sing or play or even keep my bowels contained, but I gladly accepted the offer. For the next week or so I happily told everyone about my HBO deal until somebody finally told me that I was halucinating. Then I got depressed.

But its hard to stay depressed with all the miraculous drugs available in modern hospitals these days. As reality fought its way back into my brain, I gradually came to realize what had happened to me and so began my slow and painful recuperation. I worked hard with the physical therapists to learn how to walk again, I started doing crossword puzzles and sudokus to improve my brain function and I redoubled my efforts to do what ever needed to be done to leave the hospital.

Now I am finally home. Its 4:00 am and I can't get to sleep, but I'm feeling nearly like my old self again. When I arrived home, I read through this thread and was overwhelmed by the love and caring that you all have shared. I cannot thank you enough for the help you provided to Tawmmie during these dark days. I was too far gone to help in her suffering, but you were there to give her the support she needed. You are truly great friends. My love and sincere appreciation go out to each of you. I've got a couple months of recuperation before I can return to work, so I will keep you posted on stuff that comes up.

Love to you all, Mike

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Big Mick
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 08:11 AM

OHMAHFRIGGINGAWD!!!!!!! We must have a song thread, the composition being along the lines of "The Ballad of Alaska Mike and the Vacuumed Manly Parts". I will be giving thanks to all powers that be for the gift of having this on my big buddy!!! You may never live this one down, big guy. Start writin' folks.

Glad you are home! I suggest you read this thread top to bottom. I know you are aware of what a special partner you have in Tawmmie, but this thread will confirm more of that feeling.

And one more thing ..... don't get to ornery. She might give you a hidin' such as you get to Donnybrook. And then Seamus and I will come up there and give you another.

I am relieved you are getting through this, my friend. Just keep mending and you mights as well write a few tunes while you are at it.

All the best,

Mick

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: JennyO
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 08:02 AM

Wow! Fantastic to see your name on a post again! It's all onward and upward from now on. Love and energy to you both, from sunny Oz.

Jenny

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: jacqui.c
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 07:35 AM

Welcome back Mike - it is so good to hear from you again.

Both of you take it very easy and look after each other.

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: CET
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 07:26 AM

All right! Harmonies at the Getaway next year?

All the best.

Edmund

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 07:04 AM

Great news Mike, you must both feel so relieved. It's been a long hard haul, and you're on the home straight now, take it easy and convalesce properly. Mending is best done slowly mate.
Giok

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: gnu
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 06:20 AM

Hot Damn!!! I shall be clearing the Bud from the fridge today! Oh HAPPY day!! I can't type very well either... got joy in me eyes. It's a great way to start a day.

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 05:24 AM

Grand to have you back, Mike. A big cuddle to you and Tawmmie from me and Nessie.

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Leadfingers
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 05:21 AM

Good for you Mike !! Take it easy , and come and chat some time soon !

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Zany Mouse
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 05:13 AM

Oh Mike - it's such a relief to have you home again. Tawmmie has been brilliant keeping us up to date. Look after each other and get plenty of rest.

Luv

Rhiannon and Mick

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: bfdk
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 04:50 AM

Good to hear you're finally back home, Mike.

Now take it easy and slow and let recovery take its time. And, if need be, I shall lend my strength to that of Meg, only *I'm* all of 5'4", so together we should be able to sort you out, if you don't behave :-))

Get mending, and that's an order!

Best wishes,

Bente

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Megan L
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 04:34 AM

Welcome home lad
Now you behave yersel and be good tae that wunderfu wumin who has had tae pit up wie us as well as you :)

I've warned her if ye don't behave tae tell me. don't mak all five foot two and threequarters of me come ower there :)

God bless ye both

Dauvitt's meg

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Joe Offer
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 03:47 AM

Mike, it's a real relief to hear from you. Welcome back, and have a speedy recovery.
-Joe-

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Ebbie
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 03:43 AM

Welcome home, Mike. It's scrumptious to hear your 'voice'.

Ebbie

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: suzi
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 03:32 AM

OOPs guest above was me...

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: GUEST
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 03:29 AM

Welcome back Mike ....dont know you but have been following your progress....take it easy and love to you and your family...x

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Alaska Mike
Date: 18 Nov 06 - 01:06 AM

I am home. Finally!! Thank you for your prayers, thoughts, cards letters and phone calls. I can't express all the love and gratitude I have for each and every one of you. My typing skills are not up to snuff yet, but I will try to bring you the first hand experience tomorrow when I have time to type slow. This is the best group of friends anyone could possibly hope for. Talk to you again tomorrow.

Love, Mike

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: GUEST,Dani
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 09:05 PM

Great God in heaven, Rapaire, that hurt just laughing about it ; )

...diverter, indeed.

I'm just glad he's breathing, the vacuuming can wait!

Dani

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: skipy
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 08:57 PM

Looking fwd. to the day that you declare that this is all behind you, as it WILL be, hopefully SOON.
Skipy

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Rapparee
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 08:56 PM

Don't pay the bill until the stitches have been evaluated by a Quilt Guild. If it ain't good sewin', don't pay for it!

And lissen, if you get down this way and you want to do my carpets, well, just let me know....

(Tawmmie, you take care of yourself. When he's home and he says, "Aargh, I could sure use a _________________" don't feel guilty about sayin' "I could too -- why don't you get us both one?"

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Big Jim from Jackson
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 08:51 PM

Gee, Seamus. How do they know to send those ads to you?    :-D

Mike, keep on keeping on. Half the world is keeping an eye on this thread. We all wish you a speedy recovery---January is on its way, and you are going to need to be in the best shape possible to survive the cruise with Seamus. Make sure all the stitches are removed and the doctors have OKed serious sessions of laughter.

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 08:43 PM

more good news, yah

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Seamus Kennedy
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 01:25 PM

Tawmmie - wound vac, manly parts?

Sounds like some of the - er, how shall I put this? -enlargement spam ads I keep getting in my e-mail.
Well, whatever it takes...
99%, eh? I think most 'Catters would take that for themselves!

Give Mikey my best, and make sure you get a little break yourself.

Seamus

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 12:08 PM

Always remember the old saying gal, "Fact is stranger than suction"
I ain't even going to go a smidgeon further on that one Tawmmie, get him better, and the real jokes come later.
Slainthe Mike.
Giok

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: Rapparee
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 11:57 AM

Put a little Y-shaped diverter on the vac and he can do the carpets AND the wound. Put 'im to work, I say!

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: SINSULL
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 10:23 AM

Wound vac on his manly parts? There may be a business in the works there.

Get some rest, Tawmmie. Wish you were closer. I would even be willing to vacuum your house (but not your man. Have to draw the line somewhere.) Mine is insulated with feline and canine tumbleweed.

Home for Thanksgiving?
Mary

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: KT
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 10:17 AM

wonderful news, Tawmmie! There will be a very audible, collective sigh of relief when we hear this guy is home! "And a sigh was heard around the world...."

KT

Subject: RE: Alaska Mike needs good thoughts
From: gnu
Date: 17 Nov 06 - 09:18 AM

Great news.