To Shirley Ryan, With Love

by John Kass

June 28, 2023

The other day was graduation day at Shirley Ryan Ability Lab in Homewood.  I’ve been in therapy with Shirley Ryan, both at the downtown hospital and in the South Suburb, for six months, rehabilitating from a heart attack, quadruple bypass and stroke in January.

A team of dedicated therapists clapped us out on a Friday, on a beautiful afternoon in June. At the end of therapy, they sang to us some kind of chirpy, happy song that I couldn’t quite understand with much excited clapping. It was like the way the waiters used to sing “happy birthday happy happy” at Gibson’s.

I asked for Dean Martin’s version of “Mambo Italiano,” but it wasn’t to be.

Still, we had fun. Although to respect patient privacy, only the therapists were pictured in the photograph.

“Hoorah for me! I want to thank all those who had to deal with me!” shouted one of our fellow graduates to big laughs and applause.

We had no official valedictorians, but if we did have one, I’d have nominated a young woman named Suzanne. She had been in a serious accident.

Her lead therapist said that she entered Shirley Ryan months ago covered from head to toe in casts and braces, on her neck, along her back, her legs. All she wanted to do was to walk out on her own power, with nothing. No wheelchair. No cane.

“And here she goes. Walking out with nothing,” said the therapist. “A real clap for Suzanne.”

We gave her a real one.

Me? I was still surprised that I was even allowed into Shirley Ryan to begin working to fight back the effects of the stroke. Getting into Shirley Ryan marked me as a lucky man. As soon as the stroke and heart attack bit me, Betty and our sons and friends were worried, and family. And I suppose those of you who knew were worried, too.

One thing I’ve learned about strokes. It’s like a deadly venomous snake. You must go after it with a vengeance. And don’t even give it a place to hide or it will keep you tired and still. It wants you to be still, to give up. You can’t give in. You must fight. And if you’re lucky enough to be able to fight, then you’ve been blessed by God with the fighting spirit. Sometimes things work out.

At least I can speak.

I can do The Chicago Way podcast with my friend Jeff Carlin.

Everyday I thank God for that ability. To speak. To form ideas. To live in the world of ideas. I’m not living in the wilderness world of fish in that river up north. Not yet. And I’m really not comfortable in the rough and tumble other world that I’ve chosen for myself. The world of writing. Because typing is difficult. Those few of you who thought I was slacking off should know that for a stroke patient, typing can be excruciating. Today I’m using a combination of typing physically with my fingers and also using a type-to-text feature on the laptop. And a series of rewrites. I’m whupped.

What drives me? The obligation I have to you, my subscribers.

But what of the simple things? Every day I thank God for Shirley Ryan and her husband, Pat Ryan. And the amazing Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. The pre-eminent research and rehabilitation lab in the world, working to restore humans who’ve been hurt by strokes, heart attacks, car crashes, to restore spinal cord injuries and to work with children and their parents.

Why did I deserve admission to this wonderful facility? I didn’t do anything spectacular. I’m no one special. I’d say there are many more deserving people than me. But I was lucky.

My group of therapists included three remarkable young women. Professional women. Tough, strong minded, fair women. The kind you’d want for a boss or a friend. They pushed you till you wanted to quit. There were a couple times I did want to quit. They didn’t let me. There was Heather, the physical therapist. Her father was a football coach. Her husband is a coach.

Meghan, the Occupational therapist working with small motor functions and my ruined shoulder. And Barb the speech therapist who challenged me. We started off on a rocky road. Because I just didn’t like speech. And I know why now. It was difficult, infuriating, exhausting. I didn’t like it. Barb did not make it easy. But she made it interesting. She’s a foodie, too, and she she played me like a violin. She wouldn’t let me quit either.

That’s what amazed me about Shirley Ryan Ability Labs. The kindness and care and professionalism of staff who treated all patients with respect.

I started at Shirley Ryan after getting out of Intensive Care at the University of Chicago Hospital, after the stroke and the open heart surgery. Betty said I wouldn’t talk for 10 days.

“You stayed there in bed for days,” said Betty. I guess I was depressed. And I can see how people want to give into that depression. But outside of my family and my friends I had a responsibility that kept me going. Or at least kept me pushing against giving up.

That was the promise I made to you long ago, to write about three columns a week for you to read. I used to write four. That almost killed me. And though it’s been six months now with therapy everyday, three to four hours of it. And after it’s over, I’m tired. Exhausted.  And I don’t feel much like writing.

The doctors and therapists  wanted me to reexamine my commitment to writing so many columns. But I just couldn’t give up. Writing was and is life to me.

So my friends came to the rescue.  My friend Thom Serafin came to the rescue. Steve Huntley, who spent 30 plus years in the news trenches in Chicago, also began writing columns for johnkassnews.com. They were joined by Dr. Cory Franklin, John McCormick, Pat Hickey, the sophisticated culture critic Marie T. (Terry) Sullivan,  Mike Houlihan, Steve Melonides, (aka “Steve the Pilot”), Dr. Greg Ganske, the former Iowa congressman, and Erin Geary, Paul Vallas and Michael Ledwith and others. They picked up the load. And some of you weren’t all that happy I wasn’t writing everyday. But most of you were quite gracious. Call me selfish. I just didn’t want to die.

It was an uphill climb. From time to time, I’d try to write. Then once a week. And I’d fail. Eventually, I worked up to two a week. And I don’t know where I’ll go from here.

I do owe you an explanation. It’s just that John Wayne always said explanations and apologies are signs of weakness. Maybe so. Or maybe it’s just that I didn’t want to appear weak?  Writing one or two a week was all I could do. In 50 years, will it matter? I don’t think so. But what will matter is that a man was driven by a spark that says I owe you something I can’t quite express. What did you make me feel? I felt it. I heard you.

I wanted to serve you. I have an obligation toward you that the newsroom suits just can’t fathom. They don’t speak that language. They have no tongues to form the words.

I wanted to write for you. I am writing for you now. What does it mean? To want to serve. To be compelled to serve.

I’ve learned so much at Shirley Ryan. I’ve learned that we’re all broken. All of us. Years ago, I thought that was a line in a novel. Now I realize that it is the one true thing. We’re all weak. Most of us are broken by life.  And all you have to do is keep your mouth shut and watch people when they gather at the beginning of therapy.

We all need each other. We look around and see ourselves and all the broken people.  Who hasn’t been broken by life?

Some of the people who are broken are just tired and want to rest. Some close their eyes and hope to rest forever. Some can’t. Suzanne just wanted to walk out of there on her own two feet.

She refused to rest.

What did I learn there? From my therapists. And from Shirley Ryan I learned kindness. And patience. And treating people with respect. And so many things that were once foreign to me, incomprehensible to the life of a newsman in Chicago traveling among the tribes of political meat eaters.

I learned to respect the broken parts of people. And the way we look at each other. From our wheelchairs. The smiles we give each other. The smile Big Rick gave to me when he told me to get up and just leave the wheelchair behind. And Liz who sharpened pencils because she was bored.

And Shirley Ryan herself, I just can’t thank her enough. Many times I’d be in that chair doing all I could to get out of it. And I think of my legacy and hers. My legacy is what, exactly? A few columns maybe. My sons. My wife, our family.

You can read Mrs. Ryan’s legacy in the kindness, determination and professionalism of all those young therapists. Determined to prompt and challenge us, and cajole us into doing beyond what we thought we could do. That’s legacy.

Yesterday, Betty and I went over to meet a cardiologist near our home, to prepare for that next step of cardiac rehabilitation two to three times a week.  But I also managed to discuss recipes including my salt baked potatoes with loads of rosemary garlic butter.

“Because there’s nothing like talking about butter and potatoes and salt with your cardiologist?” said the cardiologist’s assistant.

And now comes more therapy. But it also gives me a chance to let you know that I’ll be writing more. How much more? I don’t know. As much as I can. I don’t know if I’ll ever get back to writing four columns a week the way I did at the Tribune.  I don’t think my heart could take it. I know it can’t.

But I do intend to keep writing. Because. It’s what I do. It’s what I agreed to do. When I invited you to go on this journey with me. I didn’t think it was going to be this difficult. And it’s not really like getting into a hot air balloon and flying beautiful blue skies over Cappadocia. This way, there’s more of a muddy slog uphill.

You should know the truth. I’m doing my best.

We’ve got a city to watch, a city that’s destroying itself. And I know that Mayor Brandon Johnson and other Bolshevik Democrats scream bloody murder at those of us who no longer live in Chicago. But I didn’t want to carry a stick to visit Walgreens, and I’ve never been all that good in taking orders from politicians. Let’s go Brandon. I could give two figs.

And  there’s a presidential election to watch. A Republic that seems committed to self destruction, but also resiliently defiant against it.

Because we’re all been broken one way or another. And what binds us is love.

You know that. It is part of the life of ideas. There is no greater love than the love of carpenter’s son for all of us.

Thanks, Shirley Ryan. And Heather and Barb and Megan. Love you guys.

And in the meantime, resting through another round of therapy, I’m going to keep fighting and writing as best I can.  And I’m glad you’re here with me at johnkassnews.com, on this great adventure.

I love you guys.

(Copyright 2023 John Kass)

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Comments 160

  1. And it is great to have you back, John, for whatever you can produce and whenever you can produce it, I will know you are 90% when I read a phrase and think, “that reminds me of Royko”.

    Now go gettem’!

    1. Thanks for your update John, keep that spirit! I have been a loyal reader for so many years. So many years I subscribed to the Libune just to read you. 10 years ago we moved to Park City, UT. Still have family and ties to Chicago, so I continued my subscription- until you left. Was thrilled to find you online,I so enjoy how you spread the real truth with your wit and humor. Keep fighting John, get well. I’m just one of many who will be with you forever!

  2. Best column John. We’re still here when you’re ready Warrior. And I’m so happy for Mrs. Kass and your sons. Peace. Continue to take care of yourself, we owe you that patience.

      1. God Bless You, John. It’s been a long, exhausting rehab for you. Be proud of what you accomplished. I wish you a much needed return to good health, and sarcastic political rhetoric.
        Linda Strzelczyk

  4. Wishing you continued strength and health on your rehabilitation journey! I’ve been a reader since the Daily Calumet days and not about to quit now. We’re all in this together!

  5. Hang in there John. Some of us loyal readers will be happy to read whatever you put out because a little of John Kass is WAY better than a lot of the one-sided, biased none sense that passes for news in the Libune.

    Best wishes and prayers to see you back in the fight soon.

    Lou

    1. thanks Lou. The left wanted me gone and Pratt &
      Chicago tribune guild carried Soros’ water to curry favor. they killed a once-great paper with many fine reporters

  8. Hey John. I’ll cut you a slack burger . I appreciate all you do and say.And a lot of your friends have filled in for you here. You have gathered some great talent to surround you.
    Thank you,

  10. Kasso – as your friends call you – I’d like to think I’m you’re friend, though we’ve never met in person: Your dedication to your profession is inspiring. But your dedication to humanity is what really sets you apart from the hoi polloi, something the narcissists at The Tribune Guild never picked up on. I love you, man. The stories ftom Shirley Ryan are amazing. Of course you would place the achievements of others ahead of yours. That’s you! Betty, thank you for taking such good care of the best friend I never met – kind of like the imaginary friend my brother had growing up, only better – you’re real!

  11. One thing I’ve done is step out of the information silo I had been trapped in. Your column helped me do that. Thank you for that.

    I’ve always had contemplated for the situational ethics and morality of convenience of so called conservative politicians, who have shown their hypocrisy and contempt for working people, but I’ve been awakened to see the Democrats for what they really are, and they are even worse.

    Aided and abetted by the mass media, the universities, and the deep state.

    You’re soft and fuzzy now? Check out Brother Cornel West if you really want to hear about Christ and love and compassion for all of God’s children, even our precious trans as Brother West calls them.

    Check out RFK Jr. who challenges the groupthink on the deep state, the capture of government by big pharma and the military industrial complex, and our broken health care system.

    Doesn’t everyone deserve the fabulous care you got?

    Welcome back John. I’ll continue to read your column. I hope Mr. Huntley stays around, as well as Erin, Pat, Dr. Franklin. They make me think.

  12. We’re not going anywhere. To paraphrase a biblical passage, where would we go? You have the words of our Chicagoland life. Take your time, ease back into this lifetime pursuit. Blessings!

  13. You’re inspiring, John. Thanks for not being a quitter and showing us what can be done with determination and sweat.

    I’m hanging in there with you like all the others and hope to continue to enjoy all the columns you care to write.

  14. John, one your enduring qualities is speaking from the heart and touching our hearts. You certainly haven’t lost that ability. God bless you John Kass.

  16. Kasso! You’ve honored me by including me in your roster, I owe you pal, at least three more stories any way, and as soon as I remove this huge plank from my eye I will deliver. Standby buddy and hang in there. God bless you.
    Houli

  17. John, congrats on finishing the tough part of the rehab. We are all so glad that you are still with us and continue to speak the words about a city state and country around us that has left us in a No Mans Land. You speak the truth about our beloved and now overrun city under the leadership? of a man without a clue what and who pays the bills. To a woke prosecutor and her boss who let the bad guys out on OR bonds before the poor copper finished his stack of paperwork. Why bother? Any wonder police morale is in the crapper?
    To our beloved Commodius Maximus who is so rich that what the chumbalones need or really want does not matter, only appeasing the lockstep voters or pushing so all the illegal immigrants have a right to vote. On the national level clearly s double standard when it comes to the DOJ. Eventually it will come out but so long after it won’t make a difference. Who is really running the country? A doddering old man who is more interested in sniffing young girls hair and can’t keep his thoughts straight? Who again will campaign from now the basement of the WH. And miracle of miracles will again be elected I fear. Or is it VP word salad. No, I’d bet BO 3.0? A shadow government surrounding someone that has been corrupt for decades.
    But .. in the end … we look to John Kass News to get a word of truth in the world of manufactured news to obfuscate what is really happening. Reminds me of the street hustler with three walnut shells and a pea. God help us but more so our sons and daughters.

  18. We love you back, John. I think most all of us subscribers are patient, considering the circumstances. Consider it a safety net and that is the way society works. Honestly I appreciate all of the output that you have now.

    Remember, as much as the expectation is for your writing and podcasting on politics and the like, your human interest stories like this one are equally important.

    Best of continued health and blessings to you.

    Deacon John

    1. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo!

      Your readers are grateful to the Shirley Ryan Ability Center! You have come back from the devastating through hard work and love- love of Betty and the Boys for you, and your love for them, and for your craft.

      Go ahead and use the text-to-speech. That’s what it’s there for. Truly, it’s the thoughts that count.

  19. A truly heartfelt column, and the duty you feel towards us readers is mirrored by the love we have for your thoughts and words. Your legacy will be that of opening so many eyes to the swamps found in every form of government, local to national. Your legacy is already felt in the return of defiance against the corruption which your writing gives to us all.
    Don’t worry about the number of columns you feel obligated to write. Any and all are treasures.
    Godspeed on your recovery, John.

  20. What an inspiration you are! I’ve been praying for your recovery for selfish reasons. I look forward to your columns! And I’m so happy to hear your podcasts! Take care and know you are a cherished Chicagoan , even tho you fled the state like we did.

  29. Brilliant, John. This is how you keep hope alive.

    Congrats on your rehab, glad to have you back, looking forward to the future.

    Getting out of that chair was a good thing. People can build on hope, and it starts from inside themselves. You are showing us how.

    Thanks, from the bottom of my heart.

  30. Keep up the good work, Mr. Kass! We’re so happy your therapists wouldn’t let you give up! They’re the best, and so are you. Welcome back!

  31. To every man upon this Earth death cometh soon or late,
    And how can man die better than facing fearful odds,
    For the ashes of his Fathers and the temples of his gods?
    Horatio at the Bridge
    Thomas Babington Macaulay

    This little ditty came to me as I read your excellent article this morning on the banks of the Tennessee River. You’re taking on the barbarian hordes at the Gates of Civilization John. Give ‘em hell! Nothing like some piss and vinegar to get a body going. Your therapists are seraphim and cherubim sent by God. Looking forward to seeing your columns regularly. But not too regularly! Take some time to rejuvenate yourself. Damn, it’s good to have you back, John.

  32. Thanks for committing to the struggle, John. We are so glad and lucky to have you back. A venomous snake is what it is. I had a brain bleed five years ago after getting knocked around in the surf at Long Beach Island. It caused a minor stroke. I couldn’t type, my speech was garbled, my eyesight was diminished, and I was scared. But it only lasted for a couple of weeks and I recovered.

    You seem as sharp and pugnacious as ever. Hopefully crafting your columns will keep getting easier.

    Voices like yours are indispensable. We need more of them. The Marxists never sleep.

  34. The Greek streak and your background surely helped you push through too. Just thinking about what all those who came before you endured helps put your journey in perspective.

    After my stroke in 2017, I wondered how could I ever get back? Wondering is nice, but it’s not therapy. Keep up the work. Your loyalty to your family and readers is powerful and so is their loyalty to you.

    Today’s piece is wonderful.

    It takes a while, but it’s worth it.
    Best of success on your rehab.

    Steve Sarovich

  35. God bless you, your family and everyone at Shirley Ryan. Nothing good comes easy. You’re an inspiration to everyone who knows you. I can’t speak for all your subscribers, but I’d venture to say the majority of us aren’t going anywhere. We’ll take whatever you give us, as much as you can, whenever you can.

  36. The Greek streak and your background surely helped you push through too. Just thinking about what all those who came before you endured helps put your journey in perspective.

    After my stroke in 2017, I wondered how could I ever get back? Wondering is nice, but it’s not therapy. Keep up the work. Your loyalty to your family and readers is powerful and so is their loyalty to you.

    It takes a while, but it’s worth it.
    Today’s piece is inspiring.

    Best of success on your rehab.

    Steve Sarovich

  38. Keep at it. Glad you made it through the first step. There are a lot of text-to-write apps out there and it would be interesting to see you try them and comment on them. Your voice is important-it was the only reason to subscribe to the Trib for a while.

    I am at the lake up north in the wilderness. When you are able to toss a line you are welcome anytime.

  39. Get well soon John, one of the few things I miss after leaving Chicago in 2006 is your column, sad to hear about your stroke and other illness. Glad you are still with us and able to write, albeit slowly. We are rooting for you. God Bless since you are one of the few bright sparks in the gloominess of Chicago and IL which is hell bent on destruction. Democrats are trying to see if they can beat CA to the abyss. How sad. IL has such a rich positive history.

  41. Wonderful paean (Greek word paion for a joyous song of praise and tribute, thanksgiving and triumph, originally to Apollo)
    Appropriate for our favorite Greek, Ioannis Kass. Glad you thought my columns were worthy.
    Greg Ganske

  42. OMG, I had no idea you’ve been through all of that! Heard Shirley Ryan is the best rehab around. So glad you were able to have them help you…but it’s all YOU doing the work and being dedicated. Hats off to you and get back to normal soon!

  43. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. The baked potato with garlic, salt, and rosemary butter recipe was worth the price of admission in my book, articles written or not. Hell, I kept subscribing to that rag John worked for until he left just to be sure I didn’t miss any other of his cooking suggestions. Although, with John’s cardiac event, I’m starting to wonder….
    Great to see you recovering so well John. Thanks again to all the other contributors as well.

  44. Please don’t apologize for not being able to write 3-4 columns, your work in any one of your columns, especially today’s, is worth much more than that. And the group of fellow writers that you assembled all have your gift for writing the truth.

    I’ve been telling you for years how you make your Greek ancestors, the people who invented Democracy and dedicated themselves to the truth, very proud. You made those ancestors even more proud with the way you have responded to your serious health matters. Not giving up when confronted with something like what you faced is a sign of real courage. And after completing both Police and Military careers, courage is something that I truly respect.

    You look great with the beard, by the way.

    1. when i was writing this column I got a call from the trib asking me to subscribe. i said i would on one condition.. .that they tell me what happened to the writer called john kass. they couldn’t

  46. This may have been one of the best columns you have ever written. For all the suffering and hardship, you have gained so much.

    We all have feet of clay, but we also are able to stand with the help of others.

    God is always good.

    Thank you John. You continue to enrich the lives of many many people.

  47. Welcome back, John! You look great. Sorry for the journey that you had to go through to get here, but we all knew that you would make it and it was worth the wait. Your body may have been broken, but your brilliant and insightful mind was always there. Looking forward to what comes out of it in the future.

  48. John, Thank you for your great honesty, humility, and sharing your heart! Yes, we all are broken, and love, the love that God gives and provides is what it is all about. Nothing like a broken body to teach us what we need to learn (if we are willing, and do not choose anger and bitterness) You chose to learn these things, and that is beautiful.

  49. Wonderful inspiring piece, John. Have just had the benefit of successful Shirley Ryan treatment myself – fortunately, just for back pain.

  52. Beautiful column of faith, gratitude and hope. Great picture with your Therapists.
    For all you have been through you look terrific.

    We are all broken and we are vulnerable, in an instant something can come along and knock us off our feet. A few years ago I became seriously ill. One of the many things I learned is that when you are in Intensive Care, and then Rehab, you are no longer in charge.
    Vulnerable and dependent on the constant care of Doctors, Nurses and the love of one’s Family. Recovered now I thank God for all those who cared for me.

    I am very happy you are progressing well, it has been a very tough struggle.
    More rehab to come but you are up to the challenge.
    It is good to hear you on the Podcasts and to read your columns.
    You have also given us the opportunity to read other excellent writers.
    Don’t worry about the number of columns you personally write, it is more important you fully recover.

    God Bless You and Betty, your Sons, Family and Caregivers!

  53. Kass-Thanks for sharing information on such a deeply personal situation. It helps give us context to your column and reflection on our own lives and mortality. Then again, aren’t those the qualities that have always drawn us to you and your writings, and why we followed you here? Keep fighting the good fight JK. I will continue to read your musings, but from Tampa, as the city I grew up in has sadly, long ago left me behind, as it did you.

  54. Welcome back John!
    I’ve also spent many hours in physical therapy recovering from many surgeries and a couple of strokes. I learned from my experience that along with hard work, you need a lot of patience with yourself. It takes time. God bless!

    (I hated occupational therapy but it worked)

  55. Thank you, John. I was so glad when you started JohnKassNews.com because I haven’t had a subscription to the PAPER in years and could never read your column unless my mother shared it. Let me just say that your work here on earth is not yet finished. The Lord has more for you. Welcome to NWI! I’ve been in IN for almost 12 years, and have never looked back. Yes, my commute to my job in Downers is longer, but it’s worth it.

  56. Good to have you back John as good as you are, and we know you will become even stronger in the months ahead. Bless those dedicated therapists!
    We are blessed to have you as maybe the last remaining conscience in local journalism.
    We are all here for you John. Stay the course, and enjoy every day!
    Love ya Man!

  57. And so today, for you, I also thank God for Shirley Ryan and her husband, Pat Ryan, for the amazing Shirley Ryan Ability Lab, and for Heather and Barb and Megan .

  58. Take your time John, write on the good days. My AFib last August copay was a staggering $250 for a $125,000 operation. Think insurance only had to pay about 25% of that amount. Love Medicare Advantage plans. Maybe I’ll drop off some chocolates when visiting our son in Crown Point next time, and when you want to go down south to get those peaches you love so much, I’ll drive. Keep getting better John!

  59. God is good, John. Look at the comments and you will see how much you have touched the lives of others.

    Congratulations on your graduation from Shirley Ryan. One rehab down. One more to go. You will get to the light at the end of the tunnel. And we will be behind you all the way.

    1. God is good Erin, and many times I’ve thanked Him for sending you to johnkassnews, you are a strong woman of faith and that informs your strong writing. God bless

  60. John, so glad to see this column. And glad to see you continue on this road to recovery. You are correct. We are all, in our own way, broken. I believe when we share our stories, we help each other heal, or at the very least feel supported in our own journey. Thank you for sharing your story. May each day find you feeling stronger, healthier. I look forward to future columns. And I enjoy all the writings of those you have enlisted to help.

  61. Stay the course as rehab is the way to go in so many ways. Wouldn’t it nice to have rehab for many of our political issues? Take care and stay strong!

  62. You are Truly Blessed John! You don’t know how many of us, that have experienced a “Life Event”, could have wrote that very column you just wrote this morning! I could not have said it better!
    You, and a few others, have the talent to convey a message that most can not. Most are emotional, and when emotions are involved, bad things happen, re: Maxwell Street Polish, 119th st. & Halsted this past week.
    With time and help, you’ll get most of it back. It took me almost two years. And things become much clearer! I’m looking forward to reading just what that is!

  63. Ditto to everything everyone has said here. For years you were the only reason to read that rag. We are so thankful for your thoughtful words that bring us meaning in this seemingly broken world we live in.

    God bless you John, and keep up the good fight. Nothing good or worthwhile comes easy in this life, and we can see how your real life experiences will make your writing even better (if that is even possible!)

  65. I had a wise doctor once tell me while facing some tough times ahead many years ago. He said, “If you let something control your life, it will”. It has been my personal credo since. Best to you and your road back to health John!

  66. Thanks John for all that you do to keep us informed and to keep a spotlight on the political class that is trying it’s best to ruin our state, county and city. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

  68. Yianni,
    So good to “hear” that voice of yours again! I was thinking you’re one lucky guy, but then thought about it, and said – you must be truly blessed! This arduous journey that you’ve been on has been an instructional one for those of us watching from the side lines. With God as our navigator, we can accomplish so much – yet that’s what our foes fear the most – religious freedoms. You are (thankfully) a living example of what can be accomplished with faith, hope, a bit of luck, and infinite determination – not to mention a spectacular rehab staff! You’ve been in our prayers – that have been answered! One day at a time, we’re with you all the way. Mind your health. Love to Betty and the boys! And as we say in Greek – “deenamee! and Eis anotera!

  69. The river up north is a therapy itself. You don’t have to physically be there to realize its benefits. Until you can get there, enjoy it in your head. Let us know when you do get your feet wet again. You have a reputation to uphold. Mend your body and then mend your line Two Rods John.

  70. So happy to hear that you have graduated from therapy. I can only imagine how hard it was. I’m still shocked by your comment that some of your subscribers complained you were slacking off! What is wrong with people? Don’t feel like you have to write a certain number of columns a week. We are happy with anything you have to say whenever you are able to say it. God bless you and your family. Continued prayers for your recovery. The world needs voices like yours.
    Joe and Sandy Porter

  71. John Kass is always good news….thank you John for all you write. No matter one line or multiples in wisdom and journalistic greatness.
    A friend of mine sent me an email today and it dealt with 5 lessons from Dr Steven Gundry: #1: Remember your WHY, #2 Think ‘I get to’ not ‘I have to’, #3: Take it one step at a time, #4: Be kind to yourself and remember you’re trying your best, #5: Get 1% better than yesterday.
    He goes into detail on each of these items and it really comes down to common sense and how you want to live your life. LIVE, LIVE… I found myself getting the doldrums and, like so many others, felt down and depressed. I found that my bucket list still was not empty yet and so many things are going to happen in my life that I choose not to miss them.
    85 is just a number, but I am looking at a goal of 100 at least now a days. I thank God every night and every morning to be hanging in there and keep on praying for a number of people, you included, every night.
    God bless you John Kass. You are a reason for all of us to want better things in our small world of Cook County and our wonderful USA. Keep on keeping on…
    Always with some digital hugs,
    Tom Adams

  72. John….thanks for sharing all the details of your rehab. What a wonderful place. You can do this! You have to do this! We sorely need your continued wisdom and insight. And as Erin states above, we are ALL behind you!

      1. John, I have read your columns for a long time. Thank you for your honesty today. Though you are the reason I read the column those who have blessed you with help writing columns has kept me reading . Hang in there. I know you have this. Kept working on your recovery ❤️‍🩹

  74. John – I’m a year older as you may remember from high school, turning 68 in a couple of weeks and your column hits home. Thank God you’ve gotten the care you needed and for your spirit, which seems unabated. Our life is our family but it’s also what we do to help others and you’ve done well in that category. At the end of the day, what you’re doing brings light to our leadership challenges and hopefully results in some meaningful change.

    Keep at it!!

  76. KASS ,
    AS A CAREGIVER TO MY WIFE OF 59 YEARS ,HAVING SUFFERED 3 STROKES LAST MAY 13TH.2022 ,YES IT WAS A” FRIDAY THE 13TH “.WE WERE UP AT OUR SUMMER HOME IN
    MICHIGAN AND IT’S ALL HISTORY NOW.WE’RE STILL WORKING ON IT .TWO HOSPITAL STAYS ,TWO SESSIONS OF PHYSICAL ,OCCUPATIONAL,& SPEECH THERAPY.WHEEL CHAIRS ,CANES, WALKERS,BLEEDING ULCER ,PILLS ,PILLS AND MORE PILLS,BUT WE ARE STILL FIGHTING THAT SNAKE.SHE IS A VERY STRONG WOMAN ,MOTHER OF 5 ,NANA TO 13 AND SOON TO BE GREAT GRANDMOTHER TO ANOTHER SWEET GIRL BABY IN AUGUST.THIS IS WHAT WE FIGHT FOR -FAMILY ,LOVE AND EACH OTHER.
    JOHN NEVER GIVE IN TO THE SNAKE,OUR FAMILIES NEED US ,AND WE ALSO NEED THEM TO FIGHT THE FIGHT.MY THE GOOD LORD KEEP YOU IN THE PALM OF HIS HAND AND HELP YOU IN YOU FIGHT FOR HEALTH .MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
    JACK & SANDY DOOLIN

  77. Welcome back John and congrats on your rehab. This is a Hall of Fame showcase you have penned. The human vulnerability you speak to in full transparency is enlightening and motivating, evoking that yearning we all have inside to be committed to what we do and the people we live. Will it matter in 50 years? Of course. Truth has no expiration and the human spirit has not the limitations of the human body.

    Be well.
    Be strong.
    Be the truth.
    Be the light.

    Blessings to you, Betty, and the boys. And Zeus.

  78. Mr. Kass – So glad to hear your health is improving, and wishing you continued speedy recovery and strength. Please don’t worry about the number of articles you produce and just focus on getting healthy. I would still happily subscribe even if it were only an article per month! Your pinch hitting writers have been stellar. Stay well.

  79. JK, we love you, too. Just take it easy, and maybe only write one column per week until you feel like doing two :). You have been through a hard journey, so now you really appreciate how fragile life is, especially as we all get older. God Bless you in your speedy recovery!

  80. First career was hospital administration. Was blessed to be in administration for a new rehab center in the mid 90’s when inpatient rehabilitation started to take off. Insurance companies were skeptical of the treatment plans and had to fight for every dollar. Now it’s not even questioned. A testament to the hundreds of thousands of therapists and patients over the years that have made the journey as you did.

    The work of those therapists and teams is amazing. You were not alone in wanting to “give up”. In many cases even more important to overcome than the physical debilitation.

    So glad you found a way to push through. God bless and God speed.

  81. John, the lesson to be learned here is that life is (too) short and despite the crap our society throws out these days, it’s also worth living for. Remember all the little things you learn in therapy, you will need to use some of them all the time moving forward. Don’t over do things. Do the things you like but within your limits. One thing I learned is that if doing something that hurts, do it a little more, attack it head on. Funny as it sounds, it seems to work. You’ve had more than one catastrophe to deal with and patience is very important for a complete recovery. Stay focused, know there are many of us here pulling for you and most would do anything to help you out. If that means 2 columns instead of 3 then so be it. Keep the goal in sight, you’ll get there…it’s who you are and what you want more than anything else. No doubt you’ll get there.

  82. Dear John, you not only can speak…you have the WORDS to go with! And you know better than others, there’s a big difference! So glad you’ve managed with help to fight the fight, daunting as it was and is! I’m sure your family is sleeping/breathing better and happy to have you back home where you belong. As for your columns, whether 1, 2, 3 or however many, they don’t all have to be epistles. Sometimes maybe a scintillating paragraph will suffice until the next one. Each day will be different and you’ll have to pace yourself accordingly. I and others here of a certain age know how doctor appointments, tests, scans, etc., can gobble up the hours of a day whether as a patient or a caregiver. I know your team has helped with your physical and mental health during this arduous process and I can see from your writing that your spiritual health is still intact, so yes you are blessed and the world is better for your continued presence. Make the most of it for you and your family. We, your followers, are second bananas cheering you on from the sidelines. God bless!

  83. Yes we are all broken. It’s sadly true. I have been there. The loss of my husband of thirty years devastated me. I recall the screaming in my head of you can do this. It took time. What I learned in that time was I was forever changed.
    You are forever changed. For me it changed how I looked at things.
    Its my hope and wish that your lovely Betty, and your sons have weathered this storm also. Please tell Betty from me I know what it’s like to cry in shower. I know what it’s like to want want to infuse you with her strength. I know the pain and uncertainty of what next.
    It’s wonderful to hear how well you’re doing. It’s great to be among the many here who have offered daily prayers to you and yours.
    God bless you and your family on your continued journey.
    https://youtu.be/44CQbWDDd64
    Here is your tune. Enjoy!

  84. So glad to hear the good news. Congrads!!! Lots of hard work on your part an the people who helped you paid off. I don’t care how many columns yyou write per week – each one is a treasure and a gift to me I have enjoyded all the other people who filled in for you.

    Just hang in there and “God Bless you and your Family”

  85. This might just be the most touching piece you’ve written. “I’ve learned that we’re all broken.” So true. Life can be fragile. It’s heart warming to see your progress after that tsunami of medical issues. Your dedication to your recovery demonstrates your love for your family, life, and us, as readers, too. Very inspirational. One’s dedication to recovery from a stroke is really the only controllable tool one has after the event. We know you have a way to go, John. Just rest assured many of us are rooting and praying for your continued recovery.

    May God bless the caregivers and your family.

    David

  86. I think sometimes we take for granted the simple things we are able to do in life until we are no longer able to do them. Through the efforts of your therapists you are being restored and will soon be writing as much as you like.
    But remember you treated us with so many outstanding guest writers you may need to allow them a column once in a while.
    Continue making progress.

  87. I am glad to read that you and the therapists at the Shirley Ryan Re-Hab survived each other. I am also glad you will be writing again, your energy level permitting.

    I, for one have enjoyed your guest writers immensely. I may not have agreed 100% with them, but that is what a reasonable discussion is- an exchange of ideas- not a fight to the death. You have shown that is still a viable path to strengthen our communities.

    Please take care or yourself, for Betty and the boys. We the readers who enjoy your columns come in a bit further down the list.

  88. Congratulations on all of the progress you have made so far! You are so fortunate to have loving family and friends walking with you and supporting you. Keep up the great work, the people of Chicago need you.

  89. A little bit of Kass – Better than anything out there.
    You’re Back – This was a masterpiece – Thanks Heather, Thanks Barb, Thanks Megan – Thanks for taking care of our friend!!
    Thanks for your wife and sons for whom you live.
    Thanks for Shirley Ryan and all the Doctors who did their part to get you there.
    Thanks for all the guest columnist’s who wrote admirably, as we prayed for your return.
    And Thanks to you John – For not…..For never giving up.
    You’re Back – And it was sure worth the wait!!!
    Welcome home my friend,
    -Mark

  93. Thank you for staying. Thank you for not giving up. Thank you for continuing to write. Thank you to the carpenter’s Son for sparing you to spend more time with the ones who love you.

  94. Glad your getting better John!! I enjoy all the columns. Some of the best therapy is throwing lines in the rivers up north! Lets go! You can do it!!

  95. Best news I’ve heard in a long time. Good to have you back!
    You write what most people think (I still like to think we’re the silent majority although some days I wonder).
    God Bless.

  96. Thank you John for such a heartfelt column. I, along with I’m sure many others will appreciate every column you are able to write. We will never ask for more than you are able to provide. Continue your recovery, God Bless you & your family.

  97. Thanks for filling us in on what you’ve been going through. I think two columns a week is pretty impressive; I’ll settle for that, but by all means try to do even better. Best wishes for a continued good recovery.

  98. So good to know you are writing. I will take whatever and whenever you write. I admire your”grit”. And I shed a few tears as I read this. I have been a long standing reader of your columns. And years ago I met you out in Dupage County at some cooking show and I was thrilled to meet you and still have the pictures of you and I that my husband took. Please take good care of yourself.

  99. Once again, a brave Greek stands before an overwhelming foe at Thermopylae. But unlike Leonidas, this Greek has triumphed! John, you are the new, victorious Leonidas. God bless you, your family, and your ardent subscribers. Keep kickin’ Xerxes’ ass, my friend.

  100. Glad to hear you are a little better every day, John. Happy to be a subscriber. I agree with an earlier comment, I think of you as a friend that I have never met.

  101. God speed John. You were missed and I’m hopeful you will write only as much as your hearts, both them, the physical and the mental heart, will allow you to write. It’s easy for a hobby writer like me to stop writing whenever I feel like it, but it must be excruciating for a professional writer who loves his work, to stop for any reason. My advice to you right after your health incident was “hang tough.” I’m glad to see that you did. Your story should be an inspiration to many. Good on you and the family that took care of you so well.

  103. Dang you look distinguished!
    I am glad you are progressing so well! Recuperating from a stroke and heart surgery is a multi year process. You are doing way better than any one can expect.
    Keep up the good progress and keep us posted on your recovery!

  104. John,

    Happy to have you back and looking forward to your columns when you post them. You r friends did a nice job of giving us much better than what the lame street news networks vomit at us.

    With the most important election of our lifetime coming up in Nov 2024 I am looking forward to your witty and insightful writings. Have missed your Moutza of the month too!

    Best wishes.

  106. Look at all these people pulling for you!!!! YOU are a modern day Greek God!!! Listen to Betty and all will be fine!!! YOU set the pace……. we will be here to read your works.

  109. John, congratulations, good luck and God bless you and your family. Every day is a gift – thank you for reminding me, and doubtless all of us of that fact.

  111. Best wishes and prayers for a full recovery John. As a guy that suffered with a spinal injury in 1982, endured two months with bolts in my skull, hooked to a pulley with weights, under traction, I remember the frustration. Recovery was six months for me.
    Last year a battle with cancer, so far in remission.
    You can do it!

  114. Wonderful column & I appreciate your honesty, sharing such intimate details of your health journey to recovery. Although I miss reading more frequent columns, I never once regretted joining you on this adventure when you left the Tribune. No matter how often you write, I’ll read! I listen to your Chicago Way podcasts, too. May God continue to bless you and thank you for your brave fight.

  115. Had noticed your absence but had no idea what was going on.
    So glad to hear you’re OK.
    Don’t give a second thought to how many columns you can put out.
    We know where your heart is.
    Looking forward to hearing from you when you’re up for it.

  116. Great column! You’re a fighter and look fantastic! Congratulations on completing your therapy! Thankful to all the people that cared for you through this challenging time. Love you!

  117. John, so great to hear you update. You story is inspirational. I saw my big brother almost killed by a stoke years ago and watched him fight to walk again. It’s truly inspiring to witness someone do the hard work to regain their independence!

    Now plan to cook something delicious for this Fourth of July, and celebrate your journey for independence and a few more columns, when you’re up to it!

  118. All the way from Virginia Beach, VA comes prayers and love for continued SUCCESS. Your true supporters don’t care how you get your words written on paper – or spoken into cyberspace, we just want to read them and share the experiences and think about what you say. Whether that is one time a month (or 6 months) or 4 times a week…here we are…reading them. Keep up the positivity and HARD WORK of physical and spiritual recovery. We are with you!

  119. Thanks for the update and sharing the struggle to get back to what you love and why we love you. May God bless you everyday with his strength, love, and presence.

  120. John, like always, what a heartfelt column you wrote. As you state: We all need each other. May God continue to bless you and all of us. Thank you.

  121. It’s great to have you back in the saddle, John. God bless those who help the many of us who need the help. Yes, we are all broken but as you said, we can lend a hand and help others persevere. You are lucky as is your family. If we can all just encourage those around us, it’s one small way to keep hope and faith alive. Now let’s get your opinions and observations going again!

  123. I look forward to every column you write, regardless of frequency, and will continue to do so. Congratulations on all the great progress you have made!! Continued best wishes.

  124. God bless you John Kass, and your entire team of therapists. I especially want to thank them for giving you the will to continue on with what you do and are so good at. The physical tasks are one thing, but the mental determination is the biggest, Thank you again for being there, and for all that you do.

  126. John, it’s always a joy to hear a voice of reason, even if humbled by a triple shellacking of the worst kind. There are a very few who can view the world and express its condition eloquently. You’re one of them. Whatever you’re able to do henceforth is most welcomed. Not only are you a critic and commentator, but also a teacher. We all can learn a lot.

  127. Though I am delighted to hear of your progress and your milestones achieved, I’m still gonna pray for you every day. Keep up the good work, Mr. K.

  128. Thanks John, for setting an example to never give up. Life is too precious to let problems destroy us. My daughter fell down 4 stairs onto a hardwood floor, shattering the tibia in her left leg. It was on Greek Easter. It’s been 2 months since she fell, She’s able to walk with a cane and put pressure on her leg. While reading of your experience, I thought of her. She has 2 new grand babies and is committed to getting better so she can run and play with them. God is good, ALL the time. So glad you have family and so many friends supporting you.
    God Bless you, patrioti!
    Se aga po!
    Angela

  129. John, I didn’t know about your health challenges. Thank you for writing a column that is heartfelt and encouraging to all of us in our daily struggles. May God continue to bless your journey.

  131. John, congratulations on graduating from Rehab! It is wonderful to have you back with 1-2 per week! Keep bringing your guest writers as well, as they’re great in their own ways! You are spot on that we’re all broken, it’s just many don’t realize it and play like they’re not, until time forces it on us! And yes, life is all about learning to love! That’s what the Carpenter’s Son taught us: Love the father and love our neighbor! Thanks for your vulnerability! It’s one of the gifts you give your readers!

  132. John, keep up the good fight. I too was a patient at Shirley Ryan Ability Lab (SRAL) but at the Burr Ridge Facility. I had issues that were not as severe as yours but were a personal challenge. Kaitlin, my PT, was the best and helped me tremendously. Katie, OT and Maureen, ST and their associates were of the quality you expect at SRAL. This is truly God’s Work and they perform it with care and compassion.

  133. Dang, Kass… my eyes are leaking…

    Thanks for (once again) sharing your soul. Thanks for slogging up that muddy hill, over and over again.

    Thanks for your dogged determination, the determination you’ve shown over the years as you called out the evil liars, sycophants, the ones who destroy people in their greed.

    Thanks for not backing down, not from the evil ones, and not from the stroke/heart attack/diabestes/you get the idea.

    You’re a good man, and your legacy is large.

  134. John,
    Thanks for sticking with us on this journey, and also for finding good people to jump in and give you the time you need. We are here when you are, and doing fine in the meantime with your friends. Take care and be well – you are a treasure!

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