The Soxaholix: The Waiting Room

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The Waiting Room

Your omniscient author in absentia:
(UPDATED 11:30am 3/16 via comment to this post)
(UPDATED 3/17 via comment to this post)
(UPDATED 3/18 via comment to this post)
(UPDATED 3/19 via comment to this post)

Today's the big surgery today for my wife, so the Soxaholix site will be on standby until things normalize a bit.

Rally caps are on.

March 14, 2008 | Permalink

Comments

Christ candle is lit. All the best.

Posted by: kinyahbrutha at Mar 14, 2008 8:33:13 AM

Indeed on the rally caps- my imaginary one is reverse bent with a softball in the brim (old high school trick).

In actual reality, I am wearing my pink Kintees "JTek: A Real Fenway Hero" tee-shirt today in your wife's honor, hb. If the spirit of Varitek and his thighs can't help, I don't know what can. Good thoughts your way...

Posted by: Natalie at Mar 14, 2008 8:46:10 AM

Of all the attributes of a Red Sox fan, the strongest is the heart.

Be well, Mrs. h.b.

Posted by: vermonter at Mar 14, 2008 8:49:15 AM

May the end of the day bring you both peace of mind and heart.

Posted by: Kaz at Mar 14, 2008 9:00:26 AM

Best of wishes to Mrs. H.B. The lucky 2004 hate is on. We're with you guys, H.B.

Posted by: Soulie at Mar 14, 2008 9:04:31 AM

Dig in and hang tough,you'll both be home before you know it. Rich

Posted by: Harwich Rich at Mar 14, 2008 9:05:55 AM

I'm wearing my 2004 World Series Tshirt today. What could be a more powerful portend of good karma than that?

Posted by: COD at Mar 14, 2008 9:09:13 AM

Best of luck Mrs. H.B.

Posted by: Isaac at Mar 14, 2008 9:10:47 AM

Longtime reader, first time poster - good luck with the surgery.

GAME ON MRS SOXAHOLIC

you know which way we're rooting...

Posted by: rk at Mar 14, 2008 9:11:10 AM

Wishing you the best on this difficult day.

Posted by: yazbread at Mar 14, 2008 9:16:06 AM

Good luck and be well Mrs. HB! RSN is rooting for you today.

Posted by: VT Sox Fan at Mar 14, 2008 9:22:53 AM

I will be thinking of you and your wife today HB. Best of luck and a speedy recovery to your family.

jfm

Posted by: jamesfrmmaine at Mar 14, 2008 9:28:16 AM

mrs hb haiku

rally caps are on.
docs know what they are doing.
Things will be better.

all our best thoughts,

Posted by: louclinton at Mar 14, 2008 9:34:07 AM

You guys are in my prayers today.

Posted by: denversoxfan at Mar 14, 2008 10:03:26 AM

Read your blog for a long time. This is my 1st comment. Hope and pray everything goes well with your wife. Thank you for the smile and info you bring me each day with your cartoons.

Posted by: oilcanllyod at Mar 14, 2008 10:07:48 AM

Best of luck to both of you today.

Posted by: iwanttobealion at Mar 14, 2008 10:13:54 AM

All the best to you and your wife!

Posted by: Armen at Mar 14, 2008 10:17:09 AM

God bless and God speed.

Posted by: Steve in MD at Mar 14, 2008 10:19:07 AM

We'll be thinking of Mrs. HB today. Rally caps on, prayers sent.

Posted by: truth at Mar 14, 2008 10:25:17 AM

hey hb, i'd fallen behind in my reading and only just caught up with soxaholix last night. i'm so sorry you're going through this, and i'm pulling for you and your wife with all of the big-papi-at-the-plate-in-the-bottom-of-the-ninth mojo i can muster.

Posted by: beth at Mar 14, 2008 10:31:28 AM

Good luck to you both! Hang in there!

Posted by: Lisa MK at Mar 14, 2008 10:46:41 AM

Good luck to you both! Hang in there!

Posted by: Lisa MK at Mar 14, 2008 10:46:47 AM

Best wishes for a flawless procedure and an Ellsbury-like recovery.

Posted by: Professional Hitter at Mar 14, 2008 10:47:14 AM

Thoughts and prayers go out to you both. Best of luck for a successful surgery and speedy recovery.

Posted by: Rooster at Mar 14, 2008 10:57:54 AM

Sending positive energy your way.

Posted by: Jeffrey at Mar 14, 2008 11:00:22 AM

Cowboy up, Mrs. HB!

Posted by: rubysox02138 at Mar 14, 2008 11:02:52 AM

RA-LLY-CAP! RA-LLY-CAP!

I hope everything goes great. We wait and hope with you, h.b.

Posted by: Devine at Mar 14, 2008 11:11:37 AM

I have my Red Sox Life is good #7 Fenway shirt on!

We are all sending along our positive thoughts and energy to you and your wife!

Posted by: -Di. at Mar 14, 2008 11:20:10 AM

Good luck h.b and Mrs. h.b.!!!!!

Posted by: zac at Mar 14, 2008 11:37:51 AM

all the best mrs. hb & to you too h.b.

strength, resolve, faith...got us through 86 years, it'll work now. Go team brachen!

Posted by: sonomasox at Mar 14, 2008 11:44:24 AM

hoping for the best...good luck!

Posted by: cal at Mar 14, 2008 11:54:40 AM

good luck, good luck, good luck.

Posted by: ponch at Mar 14, 2008 12:07:49 PM

Continued thoughts and prayers for you and your wife.

Posted by: jaxtraw at Mar 14, 2008 12:18:27 PM

We're all pulling for you mrs. hb.

Posted by: dirtdog in ny at Mar 14, 2008 1:20:32 PM

Best wishes for a speedy and complete recovery to mrs. h.b. and a stress-free doctor's report to you, h.b.

Posted by: Nan RedStripe at Mar 14, 2008 1:20:51 PM

Rally cap, fingers crossed, prayers said, and I'm wearing my lucky underwear.

Posted by: rose at Mar 14, 2008 1:28:02 PM

Good luck and hope it went well especially to Mrs. H.B. and the waiting-room pacing H.B.

Posted by: jake at Mar 14, 2008 1:41:36 PM

UPDATE

Scheduled o.r. was occupied by an emergency case, so actually surgery didn't start until about 30 mins ago.

It's going to be a long day into night

Posted by: h.b. at Mar 14, 2008 4:17:58 PM

Go the clever surgeons! Thinking of you.

Posted by: soxdownunder at Mar 14, 2008 4:44:17 PM

Stay strong h.b.

Us dedicated Soxaholix are thinking of you and Mrs. h.b.

Posted by: Gravypan at Mar 14, 2008 5:50:20 PM

Our prayers with you. Got the rally cap on and awaiting good news!

Posted by: RichardG. at Mar 14, 2008 5:56:15 PM

Thinking of you and mrs h.b.

Posted by: paula at Mar 14, 2008 6:43:44 PM

Got the good-luck game hat on and pulling for a successful day in the home dugout.
Been here, done this myself, and I know how hard all this waiting and dreading is. Here's hoping things go smoothly. There's a lot of good vibes going your way, pick 'em up!

Posted by: SoSock at Mar 14, 2008 7:22:55 PM

One more of your mostly silent legion wishing you and the missus good luck and speedy recovery.

Posted by: Another Bob at Mar 14, 2008 7:35:15 PM

Best wishes and all our thoughts and prayers are with Mrs. h.b. and you too Mr. h.b. Also with the team of doctors.

Posted by: bigEinSC at Mar 14, 2008 8:43:05 PM

don't really know what to say. you've given me a lot of good feelings and laughs, so if karma does really work then there's a lot of love coming your way, at least from this family. all the best.

Posted by: mattie at Mar 14, 2008 10:59:28 PM

Vermonter said it very well, so I won't try to improve on his words. Just know that many fans are rooting for you both, Mr. Brachen...

Please update us when you get the chance.

Posted by: pinstripe thunder at Mar 15, 2008 12:17:23 AM

sending positive vibes to the hb's

Posted by: astrosox at Mar 15, 2008 12:31:15 AM

rallying with you and keeping you both in my prayers!

Posted by: Audrey Mango at Mar 15, 2008 1:30:11 AM

Best wishes for you & your wife, HB.

Posted by: Tom at Mar 15, 2008 12:19:29 PM

I read this strip religiously, but this will be my first comment.

I wish you and your wife the best possible recovery from this scare. If anonymous good thoughts are worth anything, you have mine.

Posted by: AfWiDo at Mar 15, 2008 3:09:08 PM

Thoughts of the most positive kind, and best wishes to you both.

Posted by: Designated Sitter at Mar 15, 2008 8:37:53 PM

Hoping all is well. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Posted by: Betsy in Rhode Island at Mar 15, 2008 9:10:02 PM

I'm not happy about this waiting business guys - it makes me nervous.
HB is undoubtedly spending all of his time and energy where it needs to be spent. But I think one of the doctors should come out and give us an update!

Posted by: SoSock at Mar 15, 2008 10:33:11 PM

Hello h.b. Was out all day, thought I would check in to see how everything went.

I look forward to hearing some good news.

Posted by: Jeffrey at Mar 15, 2008 11:44:11 PM

While we wait, enjoy some Annoying Devil from a show called Balls of Steel.

Posted by: Kaz at Mar 16, 2008 12:19:12 AM

Feel like I'm pacing around the waiting room myself. Sure, I could have predicted this. On pins and needles waiting to hear about the wife of a guy I've never met whose name I will never know. Oh, yeah... and a Red Sox fan.

Thinking good thoughts about you and Mrs. Brachen. I have nothing but good vibes that all will go well.

Posted by: pinstripe thunder at Mar 16, 2008 12:45:05 AM

Jeez...I'm right there with ya, pt. Totally nervous and wondering.

sending best wishes and aloha to mr. and mrs. hb.

Posted by: jen in HI at Mar 16, 2008 2:20:10 AM

Hi h.b. - sending positive vibes from around the globus.

Hope this cheers you up...

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/16/sports/baseball/
16astrologer.html?ref=baseball

So much great material, so early in the season...friggin' effortless mirth...I leave it to pro's like you to maximize the value-add of this piece.

Posted by: Genghis Ortiz at Mar 16, 2008 2:45:29 AM

I'm w/ jen and pt(!).

We love you hb

Posted by: louclinton at Mar 16, 2008 9:19:06 AM

UPDATE:

Surgery went on for 13 hours Fri/Sat and there were "complications" including uncontrolled bleeding.

They stopped the surgery at 330 am and put my wife in the ICU with her chest still open.

She's been there since,unconscious. The bleeding problem got under control, but then they had to wait for swelling in the heart to go down.

She is scheduled for surgery at 2pm today (Sunday) to close everything up and, finally, begin the recovery the process.

It's been one hell of a fucking ride.

Thanks so much for all your well wishes and support.

Posted by: h.b. at Mar 16, 2008 11:30:05 AM

wow h.b. That's a fucking stressful thing.

Thanks for the update. I know every single one of us appreciate it. Go do what you need to do, and know we are all pulling for the two of you.

Posted by: Jeffrey at Mar 16, 2008 11:42:23 AM

Thank YOU hb-we're all here with you

Posted by: Harwich Rich at Mar 16, 2008 11:48:55 AM

Just talked to my mom about what you wrote, h.b. She's honestly really positive about how things sound like they went barring the complications. She explained that they do happen sometimes, but that they were able to put her into ICU is very good to hear and that the remaining surgery today should finish everything up. She feels good about your wife's chance to recover well and fully after today's surgery.

It wouldn't be life if there weren't complications, I guess. I know we could all do without them, but there it is. Remain strong yourself, h.b. Your wife needs you to stay on top yourself. Thanks for letting us know how it's going. We're just a bunch of semi-anonymous Sox fans (and a few Yankee fans) but we do care a ton for one of our own.

I'll probably tip a few back today. I'll be sure to knock one down in honor of your wife's good health. Take care.

Posted by: Kaz at Mar 16, 2008 12:47:17 PM

Best wishes h.b., and Mrs. h.b.

Posted by: pudge at Mar 16, 2008 12:58:04 PM

That's terrifying - I'll keep you and mrs. h.b. in my prayers.

Posted by: paula at Mar 16, 2008 1:03:06 PM

H.B. I can't imagine, we are all pulling for her, you, and the surgeons to cap off this game in the Bottom of the 8th had have Paps close the door.

THanks for the update.

Posted by: Jake at Mar 16, 2008 1:10:04 PM

Thank you for the update. Waiting room pacing with complications is the worst. Hope you won't have to do too much more of it.

Posted by: Devine at Mar 16, 2008 1:19:43 PM

keeping the positive thoughts flowing from out west, hb. continued strength and all the best.

Posted by: sonomasox at Mar 16, 2008 3:05:20 PM

Terrifying, but Kaz's mom's explanation sounds both cogent and extremely positive.

Posted by: soxdownunder at Mar 16, 2008 3:42:44 PM

You would be amazed at how tough and resilient people are, and how much they can rally from. You're probably discovering this first hand right now, Mr. Brachen.

This, too, shall pass, and your wife will be fine. Just remember... sunning in the stands come July. I will continue to think all good thoughts. You both have friends, though you couldn't ask for a motlier bunch.

Posted by: pinstripe thunder at Mar 16, 2008 4:00:52 PM

My thoughts and prayers are with you and most especially Mrs. H.B. You've brought me and a whole lot of others a lot of laughs, and that surely has earned you a lot of brownie points with the Big Guy. I hope you both hear some very good news soon.

Posted by: agentsculder at Mar 16, 2008 5:30:47 PM

Keep your head up and your hopes up, h.b., and prayers for you both.

Posted by: RonF at Mar 16, 2008 6:22:06 PM

h.b. I know it all has been said but you and your wife have been in my thoughts and prayers. Take Care

Posted by: jar in chicago at Mar 16, 2008 8:15:15 PM

Keeping you both in my prayers and positive vibes your way!

Posted by: Anna in CA at Mar 16, 2008 8:43:44 PM

A lot of us still out here with the rally caps on. Hope to hear good news soon. As Pinstripe Thunder says, motley we may be, but friends we are, and we are all certainly united in our best wishes for both of you...

Posted by: RichardG. at Mar 16, 2008 8:48:00 PM

Fashionably late to the party as always...

Thinking of you and your wife a lot this weekend. Hang in there. I'll be wearing my Green Monstah shirt and Sox pin on my white coat lapel for you guys tomorrow.

Posted by: Beth at Mar 16, 2008 10:40:03 PM

Be strong. You are in my daily thoughts and prayers.

Posted by: yazbread at Mar 16, 2008 11:19:25 PM

First time, long time.

I lit a candle at Church for you and Mrs H.B. today and said a prayer.

I expect a number of other readers did likewise on many days, in many faiths, in many ways. In houses of worship that come with stained glass or maybe just passing by one that comes with green grass.

I think that should cover all the bases.

Posted by: Al at Mar 16, 2008 11:42:54 PM

Continue to keep the faith h.b....Like PT said, who could ever predict that I would care about, " a wife of a guy I never met, whose name I will never know."...and yet we all do.

Strength brother.

Posted by: vancouversoxfan at Mar 17, 2008 1:08:46 AM

Still waitin' and hopin', too.

And prayin'.

Believe it.

Take your time and take care of the wife. We'll still be here when you want us. Believe that, too.

Posted by: Still lurkin and readin' at Mar 17, 2008 2:28:58 AM

* UPDATE Monday a.m.

Good news. The second part of the surgery went very well (and very quickly) Sunday afternoon. The breathing tube came out last night around 8pm and shortly thereafter my wife was able to talk (or rather whisper) just a bit.

And today should be another good day as far as recovery.

Felt so good to wake up this morning without the cloud of despair and unknowing hanging over us!

More later ...

Posted by: h.b. at Mar 17, 2008 7:50:25 AM

Extra innings suck in this context.
Let's close it out Docs, get her on the DL, and start rehab.
I know this is a scary thing to go through. My own wife "teetered on the brink" for a couple of days after being struck by a vehicle about 13 years ago. It's hell, pure hell.
My thoughts are with you, I hope for good news soon.

Posted by: SoSock at Mar 17, 2008 8:00:09 AM

GREAT!
Apparently you wrote your update as I was writing my note. It wasn't there when I wrote the above comment.
VERY encouraged by the news and glad you are able to see that light ahead.
It's so much better knowing that the odds and the momentum have shifted to the home team's side
Go Mrs. HB! (and docs)

Posted by: SoSock at Mar 17, 2008 8:04:01 AM

Good to hear the 2nd part went well h.b. I'll toss a Jameson or 6 back today for good wishes to you and Mrs. h.b.

Posted by: MattOfCT at Mar 17, 2008 8:04:05 AM

Wonderful news. May it continue.

I think Bob Costas should visit the site and see what kind of emotions a "loser in his basement" can generate. HB has created a community, its roots in a love of the Red Sox, but has grown beyond.

The good karma created by HB should be good for fighting infection an shaving some stress out of recovery.

Posted by: Joe in Philly at Mar 17, 2008 8:39:40 AM

That is awesome. h.b.!!!
Take care of yourself so you are fresh for her when she gets home.

Posted by: vasoxfan at Mar 17, 2008 9:24:09 AM

Yay!

Posted by: vermonter at Mar 17, 2008 9:33:01 AM

Hoorah!

Posted by: Devine at Mar 17, 2008 9:41:55 AM

Such good news. Stay calm, Mr. B.; to take care of the Mrs., you've got to take care of yourself. Get out, go for a walk, see some friends, breathe non-hospital air. And remember that long term health crises are a roller coaster. Don't let yourself get too up, or too down.

Posted by: truth at Mar 17, 2008 9:52:26 AM

So thrilled to hear the good news! I'm sure it feels as if the weight of the world has been lifted off you both.

Here's to a speedy, uncomplicated recovery, Mrs HB!

Posted by: Big Papi is my co-pilot at Mar 17, 2008 10:03:22 AM

Great news h.b. - I pray the news keeps getting better and better.

Posted by: Steve in MD at Mar 17, 2008 10:06:05 AM

Very good news, h.b.!

I'm sure she'll want you to fill her in on all of the weekend's news. :)

Posted by: Kaz at Mar 17, 2008 10:14:29 AM

All thoughts and prayers with you and yours; you've got a wonderful (and obsessive) community pulling for you! And thank you for taking the time to update us -- may all updates be as happy as this morning's.

Posted by: jeff in ny at Mar 17, 2008 10:45:46 AM

Thank-you h.b.for keeping us updated. It is very very good news!!!

:-)

Posted by: -Di. at Mar 17, 2008 10:51:07 AM

I figured God owes me (for a variety of things), and I made sure to call in a marker for you yesterday, hb. Glad to hear the good news!

Posted by: Natalie at Mar 17, 2008 10:57:31 AM

Holy shit, what a weekend. I can't imagine the stress you've been under H.B. I'm glad to hear it appears to be all working out for the best.

It is St. Patrick's Day - take 10 and find someplace to pour you a Guinness. You deserve it after the last couple of weeks.

Posted by: COD at Mar 17, 2008 11:08:45 AM

Nice.

Posted by: louclinton at Mar 17, 2008 11:26:19 AM

Big up to Mrs. HB. Keep the faith!

Posted by: BK at Mar 17, 2008 11:45:57 AM

Thanks for the update, glad to hear things are getting better. Be sure to tell her we're all pulling for her. Be sure to let her rest, and you get out and go for a walk or something.

Happy Evacuation Day!
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Happy Recovery Day!!

Posted by: Jeffrey at Mar 17, 2008 11:52:26 AM

Sweet news, h.b.!

Posted by: vancouversoxfan at Mar 17, 2008 11:58:35 AM

Just want to join the chorus on the welcome good news. Still thinking of you and Mrs. B.

Posted by: milwaukeesox at Mar 17, 2008 12:13:14 PM

may the light continue shining on you and the missus, hb

thanks and good luck!

Posted by: stratomaticboy at Mar 17, 2008 12:20:25 PM

FANTASTIC!

But remember to keep the green beer out of the recovery room - leave that to the rest of us, hb. You get some rest.

Posted by: sonomasox at Mar 17, 2008 12:26:21 PM

HB, I've been reading your blog for four years now and have never posted (shame on me), but I wish you and your wife well, and am glad to hear that she at least seems to be recovering well. May the luck of the Irish be with her today!

Posted by: soxaholicduke at Mar 17, 2008 2:11:41 PM

glad to hear the good news! Raising a pint for you and the Mrs. and a speedy recovery today, HB

Posted by: Anna in CA at Mar 17, 2008 2:48:00 PM

Just checking in and caught up with all the updates. Wow, I was worried on Friday and the updates are very frightening. I cannot imagine how stressed you must be and how good it must feel to be hearing some good news.

I pray the good news keeps coming - you've both paid your dues this weekend and have earned it!

We'll all tip an Irish pint for a speedy recovery tonight!

Posted by: Rooster at Mar 17, 2008 3:11:44 PM

sending more positive vibes for post-op recovery...thanks for keeping us posted hb.

Posted by: astrosox at Mar 17, 2008 3:26:17 PM

Phew - that's great news.

Posted by: soxdownunder at Mar 17, 2008 3:26:46 PM

Great news! Still thinking positive thoughts for you both!

Posted by: Ryan with a capital "R" at Mar 17, 2008 3:28:54 PM

awe! some! Fantastic news, hb.

Posted by: jen in HI at Mar 17, 2008 3:34:42 PM

Here's to you on this day and many more to come.

Posted by: El C at Mar 17, 2008 5:05:47 PM

Prayer works - So glad you guys are on the road to recovery! Thanks be to God!

Just in time too, as the Skankees took advantage today of the obvious absence of the Red Sox Nation. It would appear that everyone was in church praying for a certain downed Mrs. Commrade. Completely worth it I might add, be it pre-season or the World Series...

Posted by: Ice Princess at Mar 17, 2008 5:19:39 PM

Yay! so pleased all went well, speedy recovery mrs h.b.

Posted by: uksock at Mar 17, 2008 5:41:30 PM

Great news, hb!

I'm imagining the inspiring words she whispered when she came out of it:
"Dude, you look like shit. When's the last time you shaved?"

Posted by: IkeG at Mar 17, 2008 5:47:00 PM

Just adding another note to say I'm thinking of you and your wife, and wishing her a very speedy recovery.

Posted by: Nell at Mar 17, 2008 7:51:36 PM

wow, hb. Just getting caught up myself with the past couple of days' notes... sounds like you've had one hell of a weekend. As with everyone else, you both have been in my thoughts and prayers all week, and I'm glad to hear things appear to be turning the corner... Is it true that when the breathing tube was removed and 'shortly thereafter my wife was able to talk (or rather whisper) just a bit', it sounded like "Yankees suck!"?

Posted by: buckner was framed at Mar 17, 2008 8:58:33 PM

Glad to hear that Mrs. hb is recovering nicely. Here is to a very short stint on the DL for her, and a rapid return to good health for her and a return to normalcy for yourself.

Best wishes to you both! Red Sox Nation needs both of you back on the starting roster!!

Posted by: RichardG. at Mar 17, 2008 10:57:25 PM

Dunno, buckner. You sure the first words she whispered weren't "Yankees ROCK?" Sometimes a trauma can alter even the most fundamental beliefs.

But the important news is that she has started what will hopefully be a slow but steady progression toward full recovery. Now that she's conscious, Mr. Brachen, please tell her that she has an "extended" waiting room of hundreds of well-wishers from all over the world.

I will continue to think all good thoughts.

Posted by: pinstripe thunder at Mar 17, 2008 11:16:27 PM

pt-
rock, suck. One man's HGH is another's B12, eh? As you have stated very well these past few days, the important thing is she's doing better, and this motley crew of well-wishers is rallying behind our own.
continued good thoughts toward the Brachens, and their medical team

Posted by: buckner was framed at Mar 18, 2008 6:46:01 AM

This is a wonderful community. Nobody has to say anything. Everyone cares. This has been a tough stretch for hb in a number of ways, and it must be especially draining to share the "play-by-play" with those of us who metaphorically live in mom's basement. We know better, and are grateful for the faith that hb has placed in us.

Keep healing, Mrs. hb.

Posted by: louclinton at Mar 18, 2008 9:05:30 AM

Back from Brookln, and good to see the great news, H.B.

But everyone keep up the prayers and positive thoughts.

Posted by: Bob at Mar 18, 2008 9:34:26 AM

* UPDATE

Things continue to go well. My wife is sitting up in a chair, and last evening the "personality" returned to her voice from the previous monotone when she first started speaking again.

Only recent (and hopefully last) surprise is that she is probably going to need a pacemaker. They suspect that having her heart stopped so long has done irreparable damage to the heart's electrical system. Will know for certain later today.

My wife is bummed about that, of course. I mean, yes, it definitely beats the alternative, but the stereotype is that pacemakers are something you have much later in life.

Meanwhile, hopefully we'll be getting back to normalcy soon both in life and with the site. (Though I'm way behind in Red Sox news.)

Apologies for doing these updates via the comments. I'm using my wife's laptop and I don't have all my tools at hand to easily create new posts.

Posted by: h.b. at Mar 18, 2008 10:57:07 AM

I've been away from the Internets for the past week, so I'm just getting caught up now. I'm so glad to see things are looking up. You and your wife continue to be in my thoughts...

Posted by: meredith at Mar 18, 2008 10:57:12 AM

h.b.- I know a family where the dad (58) and two kids (25, 18) have pacemakers for a genetic heart condition, and they lead absolutely normal lives (ski up a storm, golf, work out, etc). These are not your grandpa's pacemakers. Sorry to hear of the complication, but so glad she is on the mend. My prayers remain ongoing for her full recovery. The Sox will be there when you surface from this ordeal. That's the beauty of sports, huh? You can forget about them for a while when things get tough, and when you emerge--- there they are to captivate, entertain and fulfil.

Thanks for keeping us posted.

Posted by: Natalie at Mar 18, 2008 11:17:26 AM

Thanks immensely for the updates, hb. I sincerely doubt it has occurred to anyone that updates via comment are a problem; I'm sure we're all just thrilled that things are going as well as they are and that you can find the time to let us know how she and you are doing. You all will remain in the thoughts and prayers of everyone in this corner of the Intarwebs.

Posted by: 80sParisian at Mar 18, 2008 11:22:27 AM

Thanks again for the updates. As Natalie said, the pacemaker of today is not your grandfather's pacemaker. Just tell her to stay away from really strong magnets, like an MRI...

Posted by: Jeffrey at Mar 18, 2008 11:33:11 AM

Awesome. A pacemaker is obviously a bummer but, as you said, it's better than the alternative.

Posted by: da kine at Mar 18, 2008 12:03:37 PM

I'm glad everything is getting better. Hope she's back to her old self soon. You're not missing much in the world of sox if that helps.

Posted by: americantrotter at Mar 18, 2008 12:08:55 PM

I'm glad everything is getting better. Hope she's back to her old self soon. You're not missing much in the world of sox if that helps.

Posted by: americantrotter at Mar 18, 2008 12:08:58 PM

Great news.
Now, stop apologizing.
We are sorry that we've become so needy, like stray cats you fed once too often.

Posted by: Joe in Philly at Mar 18, 2008 12:32:06 PM

It sounds like you might be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Hope things continue to proceed uneventfully for your wife.

Posted by: yazbread at Mar 18, 2008 12:56:21 PM

Rally Caps, Rally T's, and Rally Sox, are all on. Keep the Faith.

Posted by: Marty at Mar 18, 2008 1:20:11 PM

Hi--
I'm so happy to hear about your wife's recovery. I've read your site for ages and have followed your difficulties with prayers and now happiness. Don't worry about the pacemaker--today's models are unobtrusive. Before you know it, you'll be doing all the things you used to do--and enjoying them more!
Best of luck.

Posted by: Richard at Mar 18, 2008 1:29:06 PM

Another longtime lurker adding my best wishes to Mrs. H.B. BTW: Instapundit's wife, Dr. Helen (http://drhelen.blogspot.com), has a pacemaker and she's also young.

Posted by: plum at Mar 18, 2008 3:52:39 PM

Best wishes to your wife and family.

Posted by: LOWHIPAPPEAL at Mar 18, 2008 4:21:31 PM

Red Sox Nation cheers
Pacemaker beats steadily
Go Mrs. H.B.

Posted by: ParkerStPete at Mar 18, 2008 4:43:06 PM

nice one p.st.p

Dond'esta Bob?

Posted by: soxdownunder at Mar 18, 2008 5:18:43 PM

We're all still here pulling for Mrs. H.B. I understand the anxiety about the pacemaker but can tell you that my grandfather lived many decades (to age 98) with one, with little impact on his life . . . and this was old pacemaker technology.

Looking forward to hearing of the recuperation.

Posted by: AZSoxfan at Mar 18, 2008 7:06:49 PM

Chiming in late today...Nice words today from everyone but especially lc and I love the "stray cat" line from Joe in Philly.

Keep on keepin' on, Mr and Mrs. h.b.

Posted by: vancouversoxfan at Mar 18, 2008 7:54:22 PM

Glad to hear the great news, h.b. We're pulling for a speedy recovery and getting back to normalcy for your Misses and yourself.

Posted by: bigEinSC at Mar 18, 2008 10:29:29 PM

Hey, a pacemaker? Don't worry. If that's the worst you get from this, then thank medical science for it, because it's not a big deal. All the best from many corners of the nation. Colorado OUT.

Posted by: SoxSweepAgain at Mar 19, 2008 1:15:34 AM

As 80s P said - enough with the apologies. We are all just glad that you actually take the time during a situation like this to keep us updated when you can. You have MUCH more important things to be focusing on right now.
Normalcy will start to return soon. It will come in small doses, and each will seem like a breath of fresh air as it happens.
Relax a little, and rest. You'll need some energy for the rehab.
And I loved the "stray cat" line, too!

Posted by: SoSock at Mar 19, 2008 8:38:18 AM

Countless well-wishes and prayers from an avid fan.

Posted by: JoJo at Mar 19, 2008 9:42:34 AM

Great news, h.b. Tell the mrs. to relax and get well soon. And both of you take it easy. We'll all be here when yah get back!

Posted by: DUFF at Mar 19, 2008 9:46:35 AM

Pssssst! Ixnay on the tunnel and the light, yaz.

Hehe.

Posted by: Kaz at Mar 19, 2008 9:56:01 AM

Whew! I am glad things are looking up. Hope that things continue to work their way back towards normalcy!!!

lmk

Posted by: Lisa MK at Mar 19, 2008 11:06:18 AM

SDU, Estoy aquí. Estaba en Nueva York por algunos días.

Posted by: Bob at Mar 19, 2008 11:18:37 AM

BTW, sdu, hope you're not making the Japan trip for nothing:

http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/extra_bases/2008/03/francona_irked.html

Posted by: Bob at Mar 19, 2008 11:28:19 AM

So if the A's just make the trip, they could win the two games by forfeit?

Posted by: Bob at Mar 19, 2008 11:30:28 AM

Yeah,but the coaches still won't get the extra 40 grand :D

Posted by: Harwich Rich at Mar 19, 2008 11:45:44 AM

I think that's bullshit for MLB to reneg on the promises they had made to entice the Red Sox to go on a trip the players don't really want to go on in the first place.

Posted by: Jeffrey at Mar 19, 2008 12:35:21 PM

I just read that the A's voted to stand with the Red Sox and not go to Japan unless the coaches are paid.

Posted by: COD at Mar 19, 2008 12:57:35 PM

Classy move for Sox and A's to take a stand for their support staff.

Classy move for HB to put on a brave face and still provide a forum for his faithful during this tough time for his wife.

Best wishes, Mrs. HB.

Posted by: Dave S. at Mar 19, 2008 1:21:58 PM

Can't wait to see how this plays out

Posted by: Harwich Rich at Mar 19, 2008 1:24:37 PM

The Boston Herald just reported that MLB gave in...Japan is on, unfortunately.

All the best to you and the Mrs., h.b.

On the bright side, the pacemaker will get the wife to the quick TSA line at the airport!

Posted by: Follower of Tito at Mar 19, 2008 1:43:51 PM

* UPDATE

So true about the special TSA line!

Pacemaker is going in tomorrow. Release from hospital most likely Sat though still a chance for Friday.

My wife is looking much better and is walking (with assistance) every few hours and a little bit farther each time.

Her appetite is gradually coming back as well.

She is still knocking back quite a few pains meds, including the old standby morphine.

All in all, things are going well.

Posted by: h.b. at Mar 19, 2008 2:18:15 PM

Keep the good news coming.

Posted by: Jeffrey at Mar 19, 2008 2:32:29 PM

Mmmmm....Morphine...

Good news, HB.

Posted by: Bergs at Mar 19, 2008 2:47:42 PM

awesome h.b.

Posted by: vasoxfan at Mar 19, 2008 2:57:19 PM

good news indeed, hb
Hope you don't find this disrespectful

Posted by: buckner was framed at Mar 19, 2008 3:12:00 PM

I think that's great buckner, everyone needs a little humor. Funnier now than it would have been last week at this time...

Posted by: Jeffrey at Mar 19, 2008 3:16:17 PM

//BTW, sdu, hope you're not making the Japan trip for nothing//
//Japan is on, unfortunately.//

Well, Mrs sdu and I at least are delighted that they sorted things out & proud of the players on both sides for taking a stand against a typically cheap and classless move by the owners and MLB. The latter really haven't changed in 100 years except when forced by industrial action and/or bad results in court.

On a more important note - glad the recovery continues for hb's missus. She should make the most of the morphine - does anyone remember Chris Moltesanti in the Sopranos click-click-clicking away while Carmella talked religion to him after he'd been shot?

Posted by: soxdownunder at Mar 19, 2008 3:34:46 PM

I remember after my arm surgery that I was clicking the morphine button so often, they actually cut me off.

The good news is, they put me on Oxycodone after that.

Sweet, sweet Oxycodone (drool)...

Posted by: Bob at Mar 19, 2008 3:58:53 PM

Great news about the missus, H.B.

No stopping the positive thoughts, prayers, etc. now, gang.

Posted by: Bob at Mar 19, 2008 4:00:01 PM

What - Mass. Gen doesn't provide absynthe?

Posted by: soxdownunder at Mar 19, 2008 4:09:46 PM

It was New England Medical (Tufts Medical now). No absynthe, but they did have Jameson.

Posted by: Bob at Mar 19, 2008 5:17:05 PM

and if they had Jameson, I think we're all safe in assuming that Bob, too, had Jameson...

Posted by: buckner was framed at Mar 19, 2008 5:41:01 PM

Flawless deductive reasoning, Buck.

Posted by: soxdownunder at Mar 19, 2008 5:42:10 PM

That's very good to hear about hb's wife...I'm looking forward to the resumption of the talking shit here on this site...and being called a "fackin' queeah Yankees fan" on St. Patrick's day in Boston was like an old, good friend.

Posted by: Jason O. at Mar 19, 2008 7:24:41 PM

JO, yeah Southie was a s%#tstorm, as is probably usual for parade day. Actual conversation:
"Wheah the f$%k is E Street?"
"Well, you're on D Street..."
"Yeah?"
"And C Street is back there..."
"Yeah, so?"
"Uh, high five, brainy"

Nice that Mrs. hb continues to improve. Positive energy her way so that the present trend continues.

Posted by: IkeG at Mar 19, 2008 8:03:27 PM

so, Ike, did you ever find E Street? :-)

Posted by: buckner was framed at Mar 19, 2008 8:05:41 PM

Zing! Nice.

Yes, but Clarence Clemons was nowheah to be found.

Posted by: IkeG at Mar 19, 2008 8:31:28 PM

Go Go Gadget heartbeater!!
Nice job by the team too.
Warm fuzzies all over

Posted by: SoSock at Mar 20, 2008 8:06:45 AM

Someone's gotta make the pace. Mize well be Mrs. HB.

P.S. Keep her socks for Cooperstown.

Posted by: BK at Mar 20, 2008 9:28:11 AM

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