Nashville bishop continues to recover at home after open-heart surgery

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Bishop David R. Choby of Nashville has returned home to complete his recovery following successful heart bypass surgery performed Sept. 10 at St. Thomas Hospital.

After suffering discomfort in his left arm, Bishop Choby underwent testing Sept. 9. Those tests showed a blockage and the need for a bypass operation.

Surgeons completed bypasses of six blockages and were pleased with all aspects of the procedure, according to hospital officials.

Bishop Choby said he felt fortunate to have been treated at what is considered one of the premiere heart hospitals in the nation and that he was grateful for the excellent care he received from St. Thomas’ medical staff.

Bishop Choby’s schedule will be restricted for an indefinite period while he recovers. After the surgery, visitors were limited to his family and a few friends, but he was appreciative of the prayers and expressions of support and best wishes from the people of the diocese.

“Your prayerful support is a great source of comfort for me,” Bishop Choby said.

The volume of get-well cards and mail was so overwhelming, the bishop said he regretted he would not be able to personally acknowledge each sender, but wanted to assure people he was reading each card and note and asking for people’s continued prayers as he recuperates.