[Rich]

Originally Posted by Mark Padgett

First of all, thanks to all of you for your comments. I really appreciate it. For those of you who know something about this stuff, the operation is to replace one of my heart valves. It's called aortic stenosis (sp?). I'm probably having the surgery in about five weeks but I have to "take it easy" until then, which means no running around a court. In fact, two days ago I had to go to the ER with chest pains and shortness of breath.

Whether or not I'll ever be able to return to officiating remains to be seen. Sometimes it's possible, sometimes not. Recovery time varies, but I know I won't be allowed to drive a car for two months. The only good thing about this is that my wife works at home and will be able to look after me.

Now if I could only win the lottery, I could pay for the hospital bills.

I'll try to stick my head on the board from time to time just to keep up on what's going on.

Mark, I haven't been around lately, but I just wanted to take a moment to wish you the best with your surgery and hope your recovery allows you to do the things in life that are important to you.