14 Comments
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HowieM's avatar

Those who know and love you are grateful you are here!

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michael stevens's avatar

Glad you are still with us!

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Michael Pedicin's avatar

Hi Bret,

What a wonderful story, and you tell it so well. I am glad to know you and also appreciate what you give to us.

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Bret Primack's avatar

Likewise, my friend.

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Todd Coolman's avatar

Bretala, This is one of the most wonderful and inspiring stories I have read in some time. Your final two sentences sum up what I see as my primary purpose on this planet, for however much time I am granted here. It does not surprise me that you are absolutely infatuated with jazz music. It is all about forward motion. That is how you have lived your life. The story also reminds me of the year I lived in Mexico. I was taken by the genuine kindness and compassion that the Mexican people, regardless of stature, naturally carry with them and bestow upon others, even foreigners. Keep swingin'!

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Bret Primack's avatar

Thanks, Toddski. I'll be fine as long as I avoid Prince Edward mussels.

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Barbara Anel's avatar

Bret your story says it all. I wish you continued health, peace, calm, stillness. As a human who is very proactive with her health care, I am grateful to see another who takes care of themselves in the same manner. I look forward to reading your articles as I find them inspiring as a musician and as a person. Mexico's gain is our loss! But, I'm glad I still get to read your publications. Thank you for "you".

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Su Terry's avatar

Bret I had no idea you were dealing with all those health challenges. Well, obviously your presence is still required on the planet!

Around 2012 here in Ecuador, I fell on my wrist and was afraid it was broken. My neighbor called his personal doctor. She came to my building to pick me up, brought me to Mt.Sinai, ordered x rays (they were negative), accompanied me to the pharmacy to choose the correct wrist brace, then dropped me off at my apartment with some painkillers.

The bill, including x rays, was $70. I paid cash.

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Bret Primack's avatar

So interesting to navigate the health care in a new country. My procedure cost a lot more than $70, but was still nothing compared to the US. I feel very lucky I was to get world class health care near my new home.

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Terry Hoffman's avatar

You have been through a lot, Bret! Your story suggests a profound understanding of how precious life is, and the importance of having an open heart and mind.

Like you, I've had a few calamities that affected me deeply in my dotage. A book that affected me a lot is: Enjoy Every Sandwich - LIVING EACH DAY AS IF IT WERE YOUR LAST By Lee Lipsenthal.

It's about practising gratitude.

Continue to treat life well, Bret!

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Richard Dubin's avatar

Slipped the noose...again 👏🏽👏🏽

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JASON MILES's avatar

That was a great read.. so glad everything is working out for you man.. modern medicine with the right people definitely makes a difference in one’s life..

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Michael Schuster's avatar

So happy for you. What a beautifully written piece! Just gotta keep moving forward.

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Ms. Mrod's avatar

🐾✌

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