As you may have learned from YesAppCan, Appman and/or others, I've been away from the MMB pretty much full time since August 9th for some major medical procedures. I want to take this opportunity to express sincere appreciation for all the prayers and positive vibes emanating from the MMB during my recent bout with open heart surgery to replace a bad mitral valve. It was a long 8+ hour procedure as my surgeons tried for more than three hours to repair the valve with my own tissue--only to conclude the fix wouldn't last. They had to opt for plan two, undo all the earlier work and use an artificial, mechanical valve. The good news is that it should last the rest of my life; the bad news is I'll be required to take blood thinners for the rest of my life and undergo weekly blood tests. My body chemistry will be a never-ending adventure as long as I live to fight clotting and the danger of strokes.

Unquestionably, I've been blessed with another chance at life. There must be one or more unfinished tasks the Lord expects me to complete. My first challenge will be to recover; and then figure out what he's expecting me to complete.

Again, I am grateful for the tremendous support of my dear wife Pauletta and the prayers that sustained me through a tough, tough ordeal. My recovery, I have discovered, will be long and difficult; but I'm not one to give up. I'd like to think I'd make it to the Montana game, but that's a big s-t-r-e-t-c-h. God willing, I will be back no later than Homecoming.

In the meantime there's only one more thing I need to say; Give 'em Hell, Apps!

Glad you're back!

Great to have your insight back on the MMB.

Never have had the pleasure of meeting you, Chuck, but I'm glad you're back. Always enjoy your bounty of App knowledge. Hope the recovery continues to go well.

Now if DG would suck it up and get his ass back over here too.

Glad you're back, Chuck.

Really glad you're back and on the mend Chuck. I was keeping up with your progress with Doug. Your wisdom has been missed both here and on Rivals. Little piece of advice. Start stocking up on low stick tape. My dad was on coumadin for a while and could not use regular band aids for cuts. I introduced him to the type of tape we use as paramedics for people with thin skin. It really helped him not to open a new wound trying to take a bandage off.

Great News! You should be back in prime form just in time to see some great football this year. The team has been working very hard during offseason to make you proud.

Great to have you back Chuck, even if on a smaller basis while you get back to good health. God bless you and best wishes for a full recovery.

Chuck, I am glad you are doing better and I will continue to pray for your recovery. I know that you will be STRONG and NEVER EVER GIVE UP! Here's a thumbs up to a GREAT MOUNTAINEER! GO APPS!

Recovery from cardiac issues is touuuuugh, I'm still not 100 percent from my ordeal in February, hang in there. Prayers for your full and rapid recovery.

Three cheers, Chuck! Welcome back!

Glad you're back! My mother had a heart valve put in and the day of the surgery was one of the scariest days of my life. For what it's worth though her health has improved greatly compared to before the surgery.

Chuck, I KNOW you will recover. You are a great friend and mentor and I will continue to pray for your complete recovery. Glad ASU66 is back posting!

Happy you're back Chuck, we have been thinking about you.

That's great to hear chuck! Can't wait to see you back in Boone soon.

We are so glad you are back, ASU66. Our prayers are with you as you continue to recover.

Welcome back! Here's to many years of health and App-i-ness for you in the future.

Had no idea that you were having medical problems. Glad to hear you are doing better, recovering and expecting to finish that task the Lord has for you. The task must be to organize something??? I know you and have always admired your organizational ability. I always wanted to be half as organized. I never got there but always tried. Best of luck to you my friend have a speedy recovery.

Welcome back!

Keep fighting, Chuck! We all enjoy and appreciate your insight and it's great to see you back.