Quantcast
Jump to content


Thoughts and Prayers For Gonzo


Recommended Posts



Full report after Dr. Hacksaw and Nurse Hatchet remove the faulty plumbing and start the motor back up....  it's one of those things that what YOU thought was normal isn't even close to the real normal.. ........  know I know.... the hard way.  BTW ... heart attacks hurt like a somofabitch.  

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

12 minutes ago, Gonzo said:

Full report after Dr. Hacksaw and Nurse Hatchet remove the faulty plumbing and start the motor back up....  it's one of those things that what YOU thought was normal isn't even close to the real normal.. ........  know I know.... the hard way.  BTW ... heart attacks hurt like a somofabitch.  

Only in America! Good to hear from you buddy! Been there, done that, was praying for the Big Guy to give me a little more time to see the children married and off to bigger and better things, lucky for me He gave me more time. We are very happy to hear from you! Get well soon, buddy! I am praying for your speedy recovery.

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Don't know if anyone has heard yet, but Gonzo's wife posted that he is out of surgery and in the icu.. The surgery was a little more involved than first thought but the outcome was outstanding.. He still has a breathing tube in but apparently is Good old Gonzo interacting and joking the best he can with his hands LOL.. So now it is just all best wishes for a speedy recovery ! He will be in the icu for two days then in the heart hospital for another 3-4 days 

 

  • Like 5
Link to comment
Share on other sites

3 hours ago, xrac said:

Reckon Gonzo will come out with a story to write?

God willing, once he is well rested, he will tells us all about it. You wouldn't believe the clarity one gains when passing through the repair shop oneself, wish I could write well to share my experience, alas, I am not an eloquent writer.

We continue to pray for Gonzo's speedy recovery.

skm, thanks for the update.

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

10 hours ago, xrac said:

Reckon Gonzo will come out with a story to write?

Yes Frank, I am sure it will be a good one... The man knows how to tell a good story... apparently today he is doing very well Joking and caring on..  I think when one can make light of a terrible situation they are in, shows a good spirit, a strong mind, and a will to live and make others smile. I think Gonzo 2.0 will have some good stories for us all ! 

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

I know from experience that getting home and having a short walk in your yard after a stint in the hospital makes you feel so much better. I guess returning to normal is what we look forward to and what we respond to. Great to see that Gonzo returned home, surveyed his property and is clearly on the road to recovery.

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Slowly getting back at it. Very sore and low energy... but getting better every day. Thanx for all your caring thoughts. U guys are the best.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

  • Like 6
Link to comment
Share on other sites

6 minutes ago, Gonzo said:

Slowly getting back at it. Very sore and low energy... but getting better every day. Thanx for all your caring thoughts. U guys are the best.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk
 

Glad to see you OK and back Gonzo. 😁 

 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Good to see ya up and at em!! Cant keep a good man (or a really ornery one) down!!

3 months is the time table the doctor's give me until I healed up. Kind of a forced retirement. But, now is the best time to sell out...probably at a real bargain too. I'll still write and do the manuals might even do some radio and podcasts.. we'll see. In the mean time...easy does it,

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

51 minutes ago, Gonzo said:


3 months is the time table the doctor's give me until I healed up. Kind of a forced retirement. But, now is the best time to sell out...probably at a real bargain too. I'll still write and do the manuals might even do some radio and podcasts.. we'll see. In the mean time...easy does it,

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk
 

I need a Gonzo near me LOL.. actually Im not to sure it is a venture I want to take on anymore.. Too much change and not in the right direction.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Today, I actually made all day with no pain pills.  Who hoo!  More walking and more activities is the key.  Can't work, still can't stay upright that long.  Probably weeks until I'm allowed to drive anyway.  Slowly healing, keeping up with posts, and everybody's comments.  Thanx for ur thoughts.  It really makes my day to hear from u all.   

  • Like 3
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Almost two years ago I suffered a traumatic injury to my left leg in the Atlantic Ocean which required surgery, screws, plates and continued physical therapy to this day. Minimizing or eliminating the pain meds is a great improvement and a milestone which I can relate to. The pills helped me with the pain but they also made me very depressed which for me was harder to deal with than the pain. I found that the recovery phase was like taking one step forward and all too often a half to a full step backwards which can be very frustrating. A good friend of mine told me to write down all the things I wanted to be able to do and revisit the list in 3 or 4 weeks to judge my progress. When I say "a list of things" I mean a realistic list of simple things such as being able to put on a pair of pants. It was very easy for me to identify and dwell on the things I was unable to do. I needed a reminder of the small progressive steps of improvements that occurs during the recovery process and this list provided that for me. Great to hear from you and I wish you continued progress towards recovery.    

  • Like 3
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Almost two years ago I suffered a traumatic injury to my left leg in the Atlantic Ocean which required surgery, screws, plates and continued physical therapy to this day. Minimizing or eliminating the pain meds is a great improvement and a milestone which I can relate to. The pills helped me with the pain but they also made me very depressed which for me was harder to deal with than the pain. I found that the recovery phase was like taking one step forward and all too often a half to a full step backwards which can be very frustrating. A good friend of mine told me to write down all the things I wanted to be able to do and revisit the list in 3 or 4 weeks to judge my progress. When I say "a list of things" I mean a realistic list of simple things such as being able to put on a pair of pants. It was very easy for me to identify and dwell on the things I was unable to do. I needed a reminder of the small progressive steps of improvements that occurs during the recovery process and this list provided that for me. Great to hear from you and I wish you continued progress towards recovery.    

I've got goals to concour. Walking distance is the main thing right now. And yes, the emotional side is a tough issue to deal with. Got it handled for now. ...just one more step...then another.

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

On 6/25/2017 at 11:07 PM, Gonzo said:

Today, I actually made all day with no pain pills.  Who hoo!  More walking and more activities is the key.  Can't work, still can't stay upright that long.  Probably weeks until I'm allowed to drive anyway.  Slowly healing, keeping up with posts, and everybody's comments.  Thanx for ur thoughts.  It really makes my day to hear from u all.   

It is good to hear from you Gonzo! Please take it easy, I know it is easier said than done, but you have to let your body rest to heal up real good. Try not to stress and let the young ones make you laugh. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

On 6/27/2017 at 1:54 PM, xrac said:

I am so happy things are looking up for you! One of the good things that has happened to me over the last few years is getting to know you (although we haven't met face to face yet).  That is something that I trust will actually happen someday. 

 

On 6/27/2017 at 1:54 PM, xrac said:

I am so happy things are looking up for you! One of the good things that has happened to me over the last few years is getting to know you (although we haven't met face to face yet).  That is something that I trust will actually happen someday. 

Harry....u made my day.  Thank you for the fruit basket.  Never a more proud moment to be associated with such a talented group of guys and gals.   Ya made my day.  Thank you.  

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

2 hours ago, Gonzo said:

 

Harry....u made my day.  Thank you for the fruit basket.  Never a more proud moment to be associated with such a talented group of guys and gals.   Ya made my day.  Thank you.  

You are welcome, Gonzo! Hope it cheers you up, even though I hear you are tough as nails. Keep your spirits up, and we are asking and praying the good Lord gives you and your family strength, wisdom, and love to endure this test. Hugs and cheers form my crew, family and I, be well buddy.

  • Like 3
Link to comment
Share on other sites

If you look at the "V" of the shirt you can just see the start of the scar.  There's a bump at the top of it.  That bump is from what I've been told, is part of the zipper they pull your chest back together with.  They insert some sort of key there and turn it until the chest is pulled back into place.  It's supposed to go away in a few months.  The scar runs about 8 inches and yes... everything hurts... but I smiled for the camera for you guys.   Love ya ALL.  

  • Like 2
Link to comment
Share on other sites

On 6/29/2017 at 9:48 AM, Gonzo said:

If you look at the "V" of the shirt you can just see the start of the scar.  There's a bump at the top of it.  That bump is from what I've been told, is part of the zipper they pull your chest back together with.  They insert some sort of key there and turn it until the chest is pulled back into place.  It's supposed to go away in a few months.  The scar runs about 8 inches and yes... everything hurts... but I smiled for the camera for you guys.   Love ya ALL.  

Ouch! Did you nickle and dime them?Asked them how much the service guide allows for service? Did they try to pass you aftermarket parts as OEM? Kidding, just some dark humor from the peanut gallery. :)

  • Like 3
Link to comment
Share on other sites

I don't think anything was free.... the nurse told me the Tylenol was 40 bucks a pill. How come we can't get away with these charges and they can??? And they say mechanics are rip offs. Pfft

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

4 hours ago, Gonzo said:

I don't think anything was free.... the nurse told me the Tylenol was 40 bucks a pill. How come we can't get away with these charges and they can??? And they say mechanics are rip offs. Pfft

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk
 

Did you have a wrist band on that they scanned before giving you anything? When my wife was in hospital that is what they did. Everything even a new pillow they scanned her then a code in a book.. Amazing .. Well glad you are doing better Keep up the good work !

  • Like 1
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Well, I'm on my 3rd week after surgery.  I've had some great days and some not so great days.  Had to go back to the ER a few days ago because the pain on the incision was just too much.  They gave me some pain pills which allowed me to sleep.  Now, I'm off the pain pills... again...and only on Tylenol.  The pain, which is better described as a nagging pressure is made worse by lifting your arms over your head or trying to twist or pick something up heavier than a gallon of milk.   Each day it does get better, but now and then it does like to sneak up and remind you how much work was needed to crack this old mechanics chest open.     

According to the doctors I'm not allowed to drive for 2 more weeks, and no golf for another 6 weeks.  Luckily, I've got a manual to write and my usual column to write, and in 2 weeks I'll be substitute teaching at the local tech college.  I'll be teaching A/C diag.   easy stuff...no lifting required.  

As things progress, I do believe I'll be ready to get back at it in about 2 more months.  Although, I've decided to sell my shop.  I just can't imagine crawling under a dash after this.  So, it either sells quickly, or I'll sell things piece by piece.  I'll give it a few months or when ever the cash flow gets too tight.  Anyway, things are progressing as well as to be expected.  

Guys, gals... if you feel like your slowing down, a bit of chest pains...even if it seems minor (like mine did)... get a stress test and find out for sure.  I'm telling ya from experience... this open heart surgery stuff.... ain't fun... ain't fun at all.   

 

 

  • Like 3
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
  • Available Subscriptions

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

         0 comments
      It always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
      While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
      Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
      One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.
  • Similar Topics

    • By Joe Marconi

      Premium Member Content 

      This content is hidden to guests, one of the benefits of a paid membership. Please login or register to view this content.

    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
      Matt Fanslow emphasizes the importance of taking control of one’s life and career, especially during challenging times. Using the analogy of flying a plane, he stresses the need for focus and decisive action. Drawing from his mentor Robert "Dutch" Silverstein's advice to "fly the darn plane," Matt discusses personal and professional development in the automotive industry. He highlights the value of self-assessment, hard work, and continuous learning, and underscores the significance of training and mentorship.
      Flying the Plane Analogy (00:01:34) Facing Life's Challenges (00:02:47) Making Intentional Decisions (00:04:01) Learning from Tough Situations (00:05:21) The Sully Incident (00:06:30) Gathering Information (00:09:01) Career Planning and Self-Assessment (00:10:25) The Role of Mentorship (00:11:35) Honesty in Self-Assessment (00:12:41) Value of Continuous Learning (00:15:01) Reality of Career Aspirations (00:16:07) Finding Your Niche (00:19:36) Mastering Skills (00:20:55) Misunderstanding Career Potential (00:22:07) Value as a Worker vs. Human (00:23:24) Understanding Skills and Passion (00:24:53) Flying the Plane Analogy (00:26:09) Encouragement and Gratitude (00:27:14)  
       
       
      Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com
      Email Matt: [email protected]
      Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE
      Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      Welcome to the Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Brian Walker. In this solo episode, Brian discusses the importance of taking massive action during slow business periods. 
      Drawing from a recent conversation with a shop owner, he shares strategies to combat slow times, including leveraging networking groups like BNI, using your CRM effectively, creating engaging video content, and offering incentives.
      Brian also highlights the importance of personal health and well-being, emphasizing that a healthy business owner is crucial for a thriving business. 
      Tune in for practical tips to help fill your bays and keep your business thriving.
      Thank you to RepairPal for sponsoring The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast. Learn more about RepairPal at https://repairpal.com/shops
      Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)
      Greg Buckley at Buckley's Auto Center : https://www.youtube.com/@BuckleysAutoCare/featured
      Charlie's Foreign Car
      https://www.youtube.com/@fixingcars
      Royalty Auto Service
      https://www.youtube.com/@theroyaltyautoservice
      Dave’s Auto Center
      https://www.youtube.com/@DavesAutoCenterCenterville
      How To Get In Touch
      Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind
      Website - shopmarketingpros.com 
      Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 
      Get the Book - shopmarketingpros.com/book
      Instagram - @shopmarketingpros 
      Questions/Ideas - [email protected] 
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network "Research has shown that people forget 90% of what they "learn" in 30 days unless it's reinforced. But reinforcement isn't enough. Today's Class training uses forced recall, a method that creates pathways in a learner's brain, helping them retain information more effectively." David Boyes, from Today's Class, discusses how daily gamification on Today's Class' app can enhance engagement and learning through individual and team-based competitions, rewards points, and prizes. “It’s microdosing of training. It’s a set of daily questions on a daily basis." David Boyes, President of ‘Today’s Class”  An online learning organization that has been supporting the automotive industry for more than 20 years. David's previous episodes HERE Show Notes
      Daily Dose of Top Tier Training: Today’s Class [THA 371]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/a371/ Today’s Class: Adaptive Learning Technology [RR 879]: https://remarkableresults.biz/remarkable-results-radio-podcast/e879/ Training Platform (00:01:52) David Boyes talks about his training platform, Today's Class, and its relevance in the industry. Gamification and Engagement (00:02:08) The discussion on how gamification can be used to encourage engagement and learning in the automotive industry. Gamification Features (00:03:03) The various forms of gamification and its role in enhancing the overall learning experience. Rewards Points and Competition (00:04:01) The use of rewards points and individual/ team-based competition as default gamification features. Customizing Gamification (00:05:15) How Today's Class can be tailored to fit the unique needs and culture of each organization. Incentives and Prizes (00:09:06) The potential for using awards, prizes, and bragging rights to drive desired behaviors. Team-Based Engagement (00:07:13) The power of team-based engagement and how it can benefit the overall team dynamic. Training Platform Overview (00:07:54) A brief explanation of Today's Class as a training platform with a different approach to traditional online training. Variety in Gamification Goals (00:09:06) The importance of variety in gamification goals to keep the learning experience fresh and engaging. Innovative Gamification Ideas (00:10:55) Creative ideas and examples of gamification rewards and incentives used by different groups. Leaderboards and Competition (00:12:36) The visibility of leaderboards and the inter-competitive play between different shops. Collaboration and Contributions (00:17:16) The involvement of parts providers or tool trucks in providing rewards and incentives for gamification. Duration of Competitions (00:19:10) The duration of gamification competitions, whether they typically last monthly or quarterly. Gamification Reset Frequency (00:19:31) David explains the importance of resetting the scoreboard monthly for a fresh competition. Setting Up Gamification Groups (00:22:46) David explains the process for onboarding new shops into gamification groups and the 90-day training cycle. Gamification as a Benefit (00:24:16) David emphasizes that gamification is a benefit but not enough to drive the platform's usage, highlighting the importance of learning and development. Thanks to our Partners, AAPEX, NAPA TRACS, and Automotive Management Network Set your sights on Las Vegas in 2024. Mark your calendar now … November 5th-7th, 2024. AAPEX - Now more than ever. And don’t miss the next free AAPEX webinar. Register now at http://AAPEXSHOW.COM/WEBINAR NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Get ready to grow your business with the Automotive Management Network: Find on the Web at http://AftermarketManagementNetwork.com for information that can help you move your business ahead and for the free and informative http://LaborRateTracker.com Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections                    
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss, and 360 Payments By setting realistic expectations, providing necessary support and training, fostering a positive work environment, and maintaining transparency and honesty, business owners can create a more productive and harmonious workplace. Implementing these actionable tips from Kevin Eckler can help reduce turnover, improve employee satisfaction, and ultimately lead to a more successful business. Kevin Eckler, Foreign Car Specialists, Poughkeepsie, NY. Listen to Kevin’s previous episodes HERE. Show Notes
      The challenges in the automotive industry (00:00:06) Discussion about the struggles and shortcomings in hiring and managing employees in the automotive industry. Setting up employees for failure (00:01:01) The tendency to bring in new employees without realistic expectations and necessary support, leading to repeated failures. Lack of support and training for new employees (00:02:43) Failure to equip new employees with the tools, support, and training needed for success in their positions. Creating a toxic work environment (00:03:40) The impact of avoiding confrontations and failing to address issues on creating a toxic work environment and setting employees up to fail. Self-awareness and accountability (00:06:34) The importance of self-awareness in how one's actions and words influence the atmosphere and attitude in the workplace. Honesty about the challenges and vision of the business (00:08:08) The importance of being honest about the difficulties and vision of the business when bringing in new employees and setting realistic expectations. Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss, and 360 Payments Shop Boss – Shop Management Software built by shop owners, for shop owners. It works the way you need it to, right out of the box. Find on the web at https://shopboss.net Connect with the Podcast: -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections  
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio


  • Our Sponsors



×
×
  • Create New...