Cool News
What's happening with Harry...
Hey folks, Harry here at Brakenridge Hospital for a bit of time. What happened, why am I here.
Well, on Yoko's Birthday, an incident occurred where when I stood up out the car, my legs felt as though thousands of needles were stabbing all around both of my legs. And my right leg, began spasming out of control. Never having had that reaction before, and feeling something wrong with my back... So we went to the emergency room.
After an hour and a half in the MRI machine, filling it like I was the John Holmes of of human beings, I was told that I was in imminent danger of having my Spinal Chord severed, thus paralyzing me for ever. This was occurring on my T10 vertabrae in my spine. Basically touch your nipples, draw a connectting invisible line to prety much in front of you sternum. The one behind that, that's what was corrupted. An emergency procedure was necessary to make sure I didn't end up like Christopher Reeve. I was loaded up in an EMS at Ceton Hospital, by a two female EMS drivers named Lazenby and Bender... I liked to think it was James Bond's granddaughter and a femme version of the drinking robot.
When I entered that EMS, separating from Yoko & Father Geek & AICN Biz Affairs & Best Friend Roland... the plan was to crack open my chest, move organs out the way and deal with the T10 through my chest. This was the alleged best plan, It was to be a 5 1/2 hour to 6 hour operation. But I was told I was in one of the Neurosurgeon's hands in the world. That said, there was a a fairly good chance I would not be a very sentient being in my evaluation of the situation. Dad was pessimistic, Roland was pessimistic and Yoko... she was a bit in shock. It was still her birthday. This nightmare wasn't happening.
Upon arrival at Brakenridge, I was whisked to the ER for prepping. For a bit of time, I was there on the gurney and I realized... I might never see any of them again. This was MAJOR surgery.
Then I met Dr Peterson. He came up smiling, introducing himself, I shake his hand with my best glowing smile and I say, "I hear you're a Genius!" He responds, "I hear you're HEADGEEK" Turns out he's been a site reader for a very long time, and follows me on Twitter, having even seen my tweet about needing Emergency Spinal Surgery. I ask him, well... do you like my writing or do you have a ton of problems? He is a big fan. And so I say, "Awesome, so your act of fandom is going to have you break into my chest remove my organs and operate on my spine?" And I said this with humor and disbelief. That seemed like too much. Turns out, he'd spent a good amount of time looking at my MRI, and decided that he could totally do this with a fairly non-invasive. 5" incision in my back, pulled apart and then he could get to where he needed to get to. It would take just an hour and a half, and wouldn't even require a transfusion. I ask him, what would the probable results be, he said, in 6 months, I'd probably be dancing with my wife.
My God. The dream.
Yoko shows up, I tell her what Dr Peterson told me. She's so relieved, and the hope involved is what produced the tears in the two of us.
They begin giving me the knock out drugs, I give her a kiss goodbye, and then the next thing I remember was staring at my toes watching them wiggle on both feet. I look over at this nurse that was wearing a Mickey Mouse Sorceror's Apprentice pin and begin singing the theme. The toes work - the rest will to.
People have often speculated what was wrong with me, but for the first time ever.. in the history of AICN, we were fixing what needed fixing on me. Right now, my spinal chord is naturally as it should be. The incision in my back is amongst the most painful things I've experienced, but last night, when I got given my private room and I found myself listening to Daft Punk's TRON LEGACY - and I realized, I could effortlessly communicate with Left and Right legs. That suddenly, I could feel every hair on both legs as it brushed by the cloth on them. I could feel both legs, completely, as I touched my belly, the sensation was... more than I've had. Being in this private room was the first time I'd been truly alone since the surgery... And the sensations are exquisite.
Now that the back is fixed, the rest will come. I'm in this Hospital for another 3 or 4 days, then I'm off to the Hospital of my birth for perhaps 10 days or 21 days depending how Rehab goes. The ultimate goal. Re-teach me how to wak, we'll be teaching my left leg how to be a leg again. It has had communication problems with the head office for quite some time, but this emergency, has turned into a Godsend.
Dr Peterson has given me the tools I need to finally remove myself from my situation. You see, in T10, the hole that the Spinal Chord goes through was being choked, I had just hit a breaking point, where the slightest fall would have meant having my strings cut.
But now, it feels as though my whole body has been turned on. For the duration of AICN's history, I haven't had this level of sensation. After I return home, we'll be having a Rehab person stopping by to continue to work with me, then I'll be in In/Out Rehab, and Gym to work on overall strength issues.
This is Euphoria and Pain. Agony and Ecstacy. A nightmare and a dream. The pain of this incision between my shoulder blades screams... Earlier today during one attempted move with Physical Therapy, I nearly passed out from pure Pain... Afterwards, I hit a glazed state as though I were in MARTYRS... Right now, I'm exhausted, was just given some Soma to try and calm the muscle area around the slit That opened up my back.
I have a long road, but at the end of it, with professional help, the love and friendship around me, I'll cease to be a 4-wheeler. The MRI showed there was nothing else wrong with my back - and now that I have a completely fixed spinal column, it is a pure strength and retraining my body to learn balance and to walk... and eventually... to dance.
For everyone that has been so kind to me through this, bless you. With mobility, you'll find I will be better able to serve you all as your faithful reporter.
Love,
Harry
Readers Talkback
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Get better quick! Looking forward to your review of The Hobbit, Trek II, etc. etc.
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JUST KIDDING! I'm not really one of those assholes. Get well soon, Harry.
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we alll love u big guy
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Glad to know you're ok. Get better. We're all cheering up for you.
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Jan. 15, 2011, 2:56 p.m. CST
I thought only Time Lords regenerated and cats had nine lives...
by BurnHollywood
Second major Harry scare in as many months (I believe)...take care of yerself, jolly fat man. Gingers don't have souls, so you're not going anywhere if the worst happens...
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I hope you get to put on your dancing shoes soon. Cheers.
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I hope everything works out for you.
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Hope your jogging in 6 months.
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I'll be praying for you, Harry.
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I'm glad that what could have been an early trip to the pearly gates resulted in, basically, a new life. Congrats and I hope the recovery is as swift and pain free as possible. Just hold on to that thought of leading Yoko around a dance floor when the pain and work seem unbearable.
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Good to know you're doing better and experiencing sensations. I can only quote "The Six Million Dollar Man": "We can rebuild him. We have the technology... Better, stronger, faster." Good luck with your recuperation and stuff!
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He Traveled Back Through Time to Terminate Your Back
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My family & I will keep you & Yoko in our prayers. Get better soon - we're pulling for you!
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Daisy and I can do for you, if anyone needs a ride or errands or what not, please call us. Here is to a speedy recovery.
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You can dance at my upcoming wedding with Yoko.
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Good luck in your recovery. The thing that confuses me the most is: I thought you were crippled? Now we're learning it's just that you haven't been to the doctor in a while? wth?
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My fiancee went through something similar. It was a close call, and nothing funny about it. Except, when they rebuilt her vertebrae using bone bank material, and she came out an inch taller. THAT was funny. Maybe you can find a doctor who has access to a fucking grammar bank, and your insurance will pay for a transplant. Good luck with that.
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So, you were afraid you'd become tall, lean, and ancient? Hmm.
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I am so glad you are safe, and this sounds like amazing news in disguise! I hope the best for you
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Well done, Mr. Knowles.
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We're expecting pictures when you stand up to greet featured guests at BNAT 13. Get well and keep us updated!
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Get well soon, and I hope this all goes as well for you as the doctor is predicting.
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Feel Better Soon.
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hope you get well soon
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Glad you're okay, you annoying bastard.
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I'm sure I speak for everyone when I say we're SO glad to hear you're going to be okay. Hell, not just okay, better than ever. Glad to hear the surgery went well and glad to hear you'll be back and up, dancing no less, in no time. Get better soon, man.
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That was seriously uplifting. What looked like a great evil turned out for the good. I would say "God bless you, Harry", but apparently He already did.
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2011 and 2012 are great year for movies. You DO NOT want to miss out on Thor, Green Lantern, Capt America, Pirates 4, Transformers 3, MI 4, XM:FC, Super-8, Thing prequel, Rise of the Apes, Cowboys&Aliens, TinTin, Conan, Holmes 2, Apollo 18, Avengers, Star Trek 2, Spiderman reboot, Batman 3, MiB 3, John carter, Superman, Wolverine 2,GR 2, Judge Dredd, Hobbit, Mad Max 4, Alien prequel or wtf it is, total recall, Bond23, Ghostbusters 3 and The Mountains of Madness
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than elvis. Really. And keep up the good work. Long time reader; first time poster
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G-d bless and good luck.
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You'll be late with the DVD column?!? I kid. I kid. Good luck with your recovery. Hope to see you out and about, footloose and fancy free, in the near future!
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That is quite the ordeal, glad to see everything seems to be turning out for the best, everything happens for a reason, you can do it Harry, get better soon and see you on the dance floor!
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that is a long ass ride....
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and watch Inception again while you're on your back. Ur still not off the hook for that shit big guy. Peace.
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...broke it after I flipped a jeep on hols in South Africa - They too were able to work wonders out of a vicious situation, and I am up and about as if nothing ever happened. So Glad to hear your ok, dude - Here's hoping that dream seems so much nearer now.
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"Being in this private room was the first time I'd been truly alone since the surgery... And the sensations are exquisite." Oh, sweet, merciful god in heaven...please make the pictures in my head stop. Please take away thoughts of Harry's special private time with regained exquisite sensation. We haven't spoken in years, but this I humbly pray... Amen.
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Get well Harry!
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...good luck, man.
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Wow, one of the studios should make a made for TV movie about you! Good material! Have a speedy recovery & take care!
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Hope you're up and at 'em soon.
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(and don't call me Shirley) But really, you talk about the pain you're experience, you've got to be on some kind of steady regiment, yes? I sure as hell hope so? I mean because I suffer chronic pain every single day due to a nerve injury in my arm, but luckily I also have sweet drugs (yes, legal) to make my life livable. May yours be the same :)
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And not one of the site trolls who hate you for your opinion of Inception. Get well soon Harry.
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... to hear you're doing this well so soon after surgery. I've been through something similar, and can tell you that rehab is going to be tough sledding, but ultimately hugely rewarding. I'll be praying for you and pulling for your complete recovery.
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And all Hell followed him.
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Get yourself better, get walking and dance your ass off with Yoko.
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And don't end up like Christopher Lee.
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Wow, Harry, I'm mostly a lurker on the site and had forgotten my login/password but had to seek it out in order to comment here. Your story was amazing, and I can't express how happy I am for you!! I hope your recovery is every bit as exciting as it should be, and we all look forward to hearing about your progress. Take good care, my friend! love and support from a long-time lurker, catfishdave
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you are a true beacon and friend to all us geeks out there fighting the good fight. Keep the faith and just remind yourself of how much good stuff that is coming out soon.
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Jan. 15, 2011, 3:39 p.m. CST
Harry, you make it sound like I was your regular scheduled surgeon.
by THE_CHOPPAH
Fuck, they had to fly me in for some emergency chopping when they couldn't find your spine after three and a half hours of digging. Glad everything turned out all right, though. And don't forget that deal we made as you were coming to...I'm going to hold you to it.
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Thank you for everything you've shared on this site with us movie watching Geeks. No matter how many other sites pop up, none compare to this one... there's a bit of magic on this site that is lacking elsewhere. I'm not sure what it is, but I suspect it is your personal touch, passion, intelligence and heart. Coming here is like pulling on your favorite comfy shirt... it just makes you feel good. Again, thank you and have a speedy recovery.
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I'm so happy for you, sir.
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the scene in Avatar where Jake enters his Avatar body for the first time... Maybe Harry shoulda called Cameron up and asked him to take him to the Navi tree and transfer his body into a better one. A blue one. Wish you all the best Harry. God be with you.
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Hi Harry. I met you briefly last August when I came down to Austin from Montreal for the Scott Pilgrim event at the Alamo. I had an amazing time that night and I remember you being very nice to me and very welcoming. I got to meet the legendary Mr. League as well as the cast and director of my favorite movie of the year. And also, perhaps most importantly, I got to finally watch a movie with the legendary Austin geek audience. I made friends in the crowd and found people easy to talk to and generally in love with all the festivities going on around them. Basically I had a blast that night, and that's owed in no small part to you. I am very happy that you are finally on the road to recovery. I wish you luck, courage and perseverance. Take care, pal. One day we'll meet again at a BTNA!
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I know we all give you shit myself included but we also give a fuck. Take care you big bastard!!
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edit.
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Dave Bowman beat me to the Chris Lee (Reeve) reference damn it! Anyway the universe works in strange ways. It was meant to happen dude. Get past the recovery and PT and make it happen!
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Double edit
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I disagree with most of your reviews, but I do wish you a speedy recovery.
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Here's to another 15 years. Cheers!
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Jan. 15, 2011, 3:50 p.m. CST
And stick with the rehab. We don't want the new and improved...
by THE_CHOPPAH
Harry turning out like the new and improved AICN.
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and how in the immediate wake of the Arizona shootings they seemed momentarily neutral & chose theyre words carefully but it was only a matter of hours before they were finding fault with the prez for his "pep rally" and all the rest of it. You guys are so funny when Harry has a brush with death as it seems that only then do you appreciate him.
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Hey there Geekgod! Whoa, what news! Scary stuff! I'm so glad though to read that you're doing fine and getting better! All the best and most positive wishes and thoughts to you man! And don't forget to report about your first dance! You'll definitely make it! We'll keep our eyes peeled! Get well soon! Greetings from Vienna, Austria Prab
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Was in the hospital two weeks ago with pneumonia. It's no place to be. Get better!!!
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"You don't know what it might be connected too."
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... a very simple "live long and prosper" and a hopeful "may the force be with you".
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Fuck me that sound's scary. Yea all the best Harry.
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Congratulations! You win an award for the dumbest propaganda-laced fanatically liberal post of the day! Unfortunately, you probably patted yourself on the back for a "job well done." Sigh.
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Absolutely Amazing! I'm incredibly excited and happy for you! I mean.. it's so emotional. Wow. I hope everything works out and your recovery is everything you dreamed. Keep your patience and good spirits and your body will reward you. :) Medical issues suck and most people take their health for granted until something happens. I'm not in a wheelchair, and live my life normally for the most part. But I'm waiting for my 're-birth' and to be free from a hereditary condition. Gene therapy should make it possible within 10 years. This is inspiration, thank you for sharing.
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Jan. 15, 2011, 4:11 p.m. CST
BTW Would it seem unatural for Harry to be wheelchair bound?
by MST3KPIMP
Honestly, doesnt Harry in a wheelchair unable to move seem like almost manifest destiny? Let's face it, he's lived a life that brought him to a stage where many have died or had diabetic amputation. He's almost right out of Wall-E living on superficial stimulation and overeating. Now if he lost his eyesight or hearing that would really ruin his day. But ya, hope your feeling better big guy.
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I want to be able to keep mocking your reviews for years to come! All kidding aside, glad you are going to recover. Good luck!
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Get well soon. Please keep us informed of your progress!
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Best of luck with the rehab and recovery. You put good karma out in the world, sometimes the world takes care of you. You have, and it looks like it is. All the best.
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Sounds like you dodged a bullet Big Guy, whew. Get well soon!
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what I am about to say is not the normal "emeraldboy Rubbish" as some of the talkbackers have reacted to my posts in the past. Here is what you need to do. first of all what you need to do is to take things for a little while recuperate, relax and recover. Health this most important thing you have. while I was in spain for christmas I had a check up and the news out of that I wont go into. I will have to get things looked into properly to firm up the results of the health test. then you need to make a plan for happens to you after you die. People think that thier parents will live forever, but that is not the case. dont rush making your plan, take your time and do it properly. make the plan inclusive. these things arent easy and there will be some people who will be peeved if you leave them out of your plans. another important thing is to update all the time. get well soon, mind yourself, take care. and look afterself. of the two things in your life, your health is more important than this website.
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Your man boobs much be really saggy for T10 to be inbetween your nipples. Thats not where normal people have them. Hope you get better, and they solved what caused the actual problem.
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am I the only who does not want my doctor to be on twitter?
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I am excited for you! That is fantastic news, bro! Your story reminds me of one that I heard. Last Christmas, I purchased a couple of antique chairs for my wife that I found on Craigslist. The man that I purchased them from was a retired heart surgeon for Kaiser Permanente -- a major hospital chain here in California. This doctor had been in a couple of traffic accidents and had experienced decades of pain and discomfort in his back. He had visited several KP hospitals, all with the same prognosis. Eventually, he retired and his issues seemed like they were getting out of hand. A friend recommended that he visit nearby Stanford Hospital here in Palo Alto. The doctors at Stanford performed a complete evaluation and prescribed a completely different prognosis. Instead of major surgery, they performed surgery for a couple of hours. He spent two or three days in the hospital...and was sent home. This elderly doctor told me that, immediately, -- even after surgery -- he had a level of comfort from his back that he hadn't experienced in DECADES! He was amazed how quickly he felt like he was "fixed." Unfortunately, his wife had already passed away and he was unable to celebrate this newfound lease on pain-free life with her. Congratulations, Harry! I hope that you can post a vid of you and Yoko dancing. A good suggestion for a first dance? THE ICE DANCE by Danny Elfman (from Edward Scissorhands). You're in our thoughts and prayers, bro!
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I'm happy for you.
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Wow. Good luck on the rehab. Now, after you get done learning to walk, do some walking and lose some weight so you can be around for a while. Seriously, good luck.
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I'll be rooting for a healthy and painless recovery.
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Positive energy coming your way man, speedy recovery!!
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Harry follows me on twitter, but we'll let him say what he wants until we can get the dosage down on his meds. I resisted twitter for a long time, but I find it helps maintain my fine motor control, and keeps my fingers agile and limber. At 69 I shouldn't be allowed to perform major surgery anymore, but here I am...chopping away.
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Going through the chest sounded really dangerous...Anyway I hope your rehab isn't too difficult. Get well soon, bub.
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Couldn't be happier for you. Though, while they're in there, would your insurance cover a little Wolverining?
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You know, I give you nothing but shit on your site (most of the time), but even an asshole like me thinks this is awesome news :) It's simply amazing that what was so close to a disaster for you, ends up being the key to new walking life. Congrats to you and Patricia (you calling her Yoko apalls me!) doh! I knew my assholeness could only be held up so much :S
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That should be 'Christopher Reeve,' not 'Christopher Lee.' Superman, not Dracula. Get well, Harry.
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The first hour is still really good. But I had forgotten how much it descends into a big-budget A-Team episode by the end...rather dull extended digging around with clunky incisions. I guess this marks the moment where my destiny lies in surgeries that are more about action than drama for much of the next decade. I was so hopeful when I started watching that it heralded the return of Harry Knowles and THE CHOPPAH as genuinely comedic guys. But it was a false dawn for both.
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Superman, not Dracula. Get well, Harry
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Blessings to you and your family and glad you made it through bro..
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Is this the first Harry post that Harry hasn't commented first in the talkback?
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Juuuust kidding Harry. Very happy to hear the good news and wish you the best of luck with recovery.
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Of course I do not personally know you, but I am really happy to read this. I hope you will be able to dance with your wife soon.
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Hope this gets you not only up and around, but walking, jogging, and exercising. Use this as a push. Get out of that chair for good.
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Mysterious ways an' all : )
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Wow, I hope so. But I thought you were still in a wheelchair all this time?
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Get better soon Sir, cause it has been proclaimed that " you will" Also every group needs it's leader, oh yeah, red pepper humus is AWESOME...with pretzel chips and Pepsi Max
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Jan. 15, 2011, 5:04 p.m. CST
Get well soon, Harry! and be done with all these health
by Quadrillionaire
problems once and for all.
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Best wishes, Harry! Get better soon so we can get on your case about your movie reviews! :P
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I get it. Never mind the above.
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Been a member of AICN for over 10 years and you are the HeadGeek! All my love and prayers for you and the Missus- get well my brother!!
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You need to lose some weight bro. I don't know if it was related, but you can't understand how much your obesity will make your rehab that much harder. Maybe stop watching movies for a few hours a day and get on a treadmill, a bike, anything. Hell, you could still watch TV when you are exercising. Take back your life.
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Get better soon and keep the site updated! <P> Shit, now you won't have any excuse not to get those DVD columns up by every Tuesday! <P>
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Best of luck on a quick recovery.
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been studying anatomy lately and was wondering how the t10 could be that high. of course, it's just harry's boobs are down to the bottom of his ribcage. anyway, it's a 'feel good' story isn't it?
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Uhhhh yes.
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...and seldom poster, I always thought you were a self-aggrandizing, name-dropping blowhard with an all too high opinion of yourself... But from one human being to another, this is great news. I sincerely hope you do get to dance with Yoko in 6 months, and I hope you post a video of it for all to see.
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You could have woken up and seen a second you, almost fully formed in a pod on your hospital room floor. <P> Hospitals freak me the fuck out. Possible zombies in the basement, aardvark things roaming the halls, old ladies crawling on the ceiling. I hope you're home soon.<P> Although houses creep me out as well.
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Jan. 15, 2011, 5:17 p.m. CST
I'm really pulling for you Harry, this is great news.
by IndustryKiller!
Just had to get a little worse before it got a lot better. I got faith you're gonna be alright, the force is on your side. Be strong, brotha.
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Come back strong, brother!
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Get better soon so I can keep on having 'em. Stuff like this is more important than movies.
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My best wishes for you, sincerely.
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Perhaps this was just his way of pointing the docs in the right direction. In any case, glad to hear you're okay and that you're actually going to come out of this surgery better than when you went in. "We can make him stronger, faster, better..." I wish you luck in your rehab and speedy recovery...don't know what we would do without our Headgeek...
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something similar happened to my brother years ago.because of his job,he had to lift alone some serious weight which lead to an injury in his back.He had to go to surgery asap otherwise he would end disabled... thank god we found one of the best neurosurgeons in greece who luckily was working in a private clinic (public health care in greece is non-existent),our life insurance would cover most of the operation's costs,my brother did the surgery,all went perfectly and now he is fine although he must take care more of his back,his body and the weight he lifts. anyway glad to see Harry that you overcame this ordeal and now there is a better future to look forward to. just try to lose some weight,do some basic exercises to strengthen your body and generally try to have a healthy life as much as possible. Health is the most important thing in the world for a human being.movies,comics,videogames,etc are good things and nice to discuss about but they dont worth anything when it comes to your health. take care mate.
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Sending you well wishes from north of the border. All the best Harry...
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Jan. 15, 2011, 5:30 p.m. CST
All the best from Wellington, New Zealand AKA Middle Earth
by Fineus Fog
The Hobbitses are praying for you big ginge
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here's to to hoping the dawn is the very brightest. Best wishes for your recovery, big guy.
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I'm praying for you Harry. Glad to hear that you are on the mend. You're a warrior and I know that you will continue to fight. I'm happy that the future looks bright. Stay positive, patient, and keep the hope. God bless you brother. We love ya. Peace.
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Did you say "re-teach me how to wak"? All in good time big fella...
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Break a er...um.... leg.
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Glad things worked out, time to heal!
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Harry good sir, will be keeping you in thought and prayer. Here's wishing you all the best!!
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the dr. was just saying he's a fan to earn your trust when in all actuality he loathes you impenetrably and has sabotaged your existence? just sayin
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Jan. 15, 2011, 5:44 p.m. CST
Well, it would've been cooler if Rudy Wells and Oscar Goldman gave you the consult..
by Sith Angel
Still, I'm very glad to hear you're on the mend already and in good spirits. That 'major surgery' thing is sometimes a crap shoot .... so it's great you had an experienced surgeon that knew the procedure with the smallest chance of complications. Get well soon!
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than use Yoko as your inspiration and dont give up.Get better man.
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good luck on the hospital rehab H. Once you've wakked successfully that first time, you'll be smiling. With the nurses help you'll wak again im sure. Soon you'll be able to wak alone, just thinking of your wife. Be strong. Be hard. You can do it.
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Best of luck with your recovery. Keep that vision of dancing with your wife in mind as your motivation and goal. Keep us up to date.
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Love your site and your writing. Hope you recover smoothly and get to walk sometime soon!
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Kia kaha as they say here. Great news that you're on the mend.
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What with the lack of sensation and all? How do fat people fuck anyway? How do you get all the flab out of the way to get to your dick?
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Harry, delighted to hear about your good news. It's times like these where real world events shock us to the core of out being, that I think we yearn for good news, for stories of triumph over adversity, stories where a person or people have achieved what was considered to be an impossiblility only recently, stories that remind us of hope, a wonderous and invaluable emotion and state of mind that sustains us in the darkest of times. I sincerely hope you realise your dream of dancing with your wife, I hope that, given time, you can wrap your arms around Father Geek to envelope him in a great big bear hug while standing on your own two feet. To feel the simple pleasure and relief of scratching an itchy foot. The very best of luck to you. "Oh, and Admiral, all my hopes."
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I hate hospitals too. awful places. worse under our minister for health. Swine flu returned VHI upped there insurance from 15% to 45% and there were 500 people on hospital trolleys,over crowding in the A and E. An election cant come soon enough to rid the irish political world of brian cowen and the current fianna fail govt. who have ruled ireland for 13 years.
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I thought of him putting A SERBIAN FILM on his best of the year list and almost had a little adult and uncompromising Freudian slip of the knife...if you know what I mean. Hippo-cratic Oath be damned. Let's hope this brush with a "wak" free existence leads to repentance.
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good to hear you're past the danger and on the way to recovery. all the best
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Jan. 15, 2011, 5:53 p.m. CST
Wow, sounds like it was pretty intense there for a while...
by Aaronthenia
My family and I extend our get well wishes to you as well as our prayers. Hope everything works out as expected if not better. Thank goodness this frightful experience has turned out to be something that will improve your quality of life and I wish you all the best. I guess Dr. Peterson has a lifetime pass to BNAT now huh.... Dammit I should have become a doctor.
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Jan. 15, 2011, 5:54 p.m. CST
Harry first question after the surgery was if Padme was alright.
by Yamato
Get well soon Harry, ye king of nerds.
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Take your time... don't rush things... I'm glad you have Yoko there for you - truly wishing you all the best!
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I'll be praying for you, Harry Knowles! Have a speedy restoration!
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I know you are nothing but a little troll, but I would so love to meet you and put you in the graveyard.
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Harry was a bit of a demon in his wheelchair and loved to charge around the spinal clinic, taking corners on one wheel and getting up to maximum speed on the long corridors. Because Harry was out of his fucking tree on pain meds the other patients loved to play along. One day, Harry was speeding up one corridor when a door opened and a man stepped out with his arm outstretched. "Stop!" he said in a firm voice. "Have you got a license for that thing?" Harry fished around in his pockets and pulled out a Kit-Kat wrapper which he held up to him. "OK" the man said and Harry went on his way. Taking the corner near the TV lounge on one wheel, another man stepped out in front of Harry and shouted "Stop!" Have you got valid insurance papers for your vehicle?" Harry again dug into his pockets and found a scrap of paper which he held up to him and the man allowed him to carry on. Going down the final corridor before the front door, a third man stepped out in front of Harry. This one was stark naked and he was stroking his engorged, purple-headed cock with his right hand. "Oh no", said Harry. "Not the breathalyzer again!"
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Shhhhhhh... Ixnay on the abotage say.
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Let us know if you want some DVDs to keep you company...
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As a guy who also as back problems, (nowhere near as bad as yours...I have a herniated disc, L5-S1) I can understand your euphoria at having the pain alleviated. I'm praying for the day I can wake up, move freely and not have pain from the hips down to my toes. I'm so glad you are ok.
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Harry really wil be able to kick Windows's ass!
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Happy to hear it Harry. Not to put a damper on things, but realistically, it will be a hard recovery. I don't think it will be harder than what you've been through to get here though, and it will be so incredibly worth it. We're all excited for you and support you 100%.
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All the best!
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Here's hoping for an exceptionally speedy recovery. You tend to get a lot of stick in the talkbacks, but without you us nerds wouldn't have anywhere to discuss, bitch and generally moan about the subjects we love. get well soon.
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It'll just take a little time, and you will get very bored in the meanwhilst (Life of Brian OS : gotta love it) and watch lots of films and get a great idea for a film site and.... get better soon dear, hugs, jugs. XXXX
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...with your recovery. I don't follow your site in mega-detail but I do give a shit about how you're getting on and its great that hope is letting off fireworks right now. Everyone should have a shot at dancing :-)
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All the best for a speedy recovery so you can give the Mrs. that dance you owe her.
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Am I missing something? Isn't Mr. Lee alive and relatively well? Or is this a movie reference I didn't clue into?
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(previous talkbacker caught it, makes sense)
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Hopefully the pain will ease soon and you will be able to do all the things you've always wanted to do. I am truly happy for you
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Perhaps not the best birthday you might've ever had, but one that you might hopefully look back on as being the best.
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Thats amazing news!!!
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I was wondering what happened to Christopher Lee too...
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Jan. 15, 2011, 6:22 p.m. CST
Touching news - sincere wishes for a speedy recovery Harry
by AngelinasOilBoy
Good luck big guy.
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Very happy for you H!
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since someone mentioned "get well Harry" since yesterday. I am truly happy that this is turning out to be a good thing for you sir. One thing about you that is amazing is your optimistic outlook and love of life. Best of luck in your recovery!
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I was in one of the Neurosurgeon's hands in the world? I hope you're on some serious narcotics dude. Also, kids, if you can't feel your legs, don't wait until you are all the way up shit creek before you see a doctor. And whatever you do, don't go to the fucking chiropractor. A chiropractor would almost certainly have permanently paralyzed our skinny friend Harry.
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You are right, it was a Godsend. I hope you have a speedy recovery!! God bless!!
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Just kidding!!!!!!!!! My very best wishes to you.
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Harry, wishing you the best, speediest recovery! Your site has been a daily fixture in my life for longer than I can admit to remembering! By extension--or in tandem--you've been there, too. I'm looking forward to several more decades of geeky "cool news" from you and yours.
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Lee has not had any similar back injury at all as far as I know. Reeve's injury was a C1-2, not a T10... there is a WORLD of difference. For Reeve it meant he couldn't even breath without assistance (to start with). Losing the use of your legs is terrible, but really it does not compare to losing the use of your entire body from the neck down. As much as I wish Harry well, I do think it was a stretch too far, and a shocking lack of awareness of what Reeve went through in his tragically curtailed life to draw the comparison as he did (tho I suppose one would hardly expect the comparison to be fair or accurate given that he even got the guy's name wrong!). Worse than all that of course, is that such a faux pas should be made by a self professed HEADGEEK. Just saying, tho as I say, I do wish Harry well.
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But LOL you had me going there. I was like "omg what the HELL happened to Christopher Lee???!!!"
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Just want to wish you all the best for a speedy recovery, Harry. Have been reading your site now for about 10 years and you've inspired me to watch a lot of movies that I'd never normally have given the time of day. I posted on here last year how I'd been suffering from depression and going through a rough time. Nothing like you've had to put up with, but I'm well on my way to recovery thanks to a lovely girl and lots of friends. I'm sure the same will be said for you. Good luck big guy. Will be thinking of you.
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oh wait.
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Jan. 15, 2011, 6:43 p.m. CST
dont over do it, youre never 100% again after you mess up your back.
by Sean Finnesey
But you take what you can get.
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I have spent far too much of my life in hospital wards, scans, consultations, future therapy coordination planning meetings, sweaty physical therapy mats -- all for very different reasons, to be sure, but my heart did a little flutter at reading your unexpected slab of hope as if it were almost my own, Monsieur Knowles. Your openness, optimism -- and affinity for narrative, for story -- has purpose-built you for this part of the journey; recovery will be hard, but it will be something to earn and savour. I have no doubt you and Yoko will soon be twinklin' them toes across dancefloors and bedroom carpets for some time to come, Harry. Best wishes, -R
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even though most of us still think the site looks like ass. You've been through some super serious stuff that could have killed you. Get well you king among nerds!!!
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You know the rest. While traumatic and painful, sounds like this is a great day for you and something that turned into a excellent gift for Yoko. Here's to dancing with you wife in six months... and, maybe, walking the floor of SDCC!
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We give you a lot of flak on here sometimes, although half of it I'm sure you insight from us just to giggle at how irate we get. There is only one Harry Knowles. I just picked up my Ain't It Cool? book of yours from my shelf and began reading it again. Great stuff. I reckon we're due a follow-up???
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...fatter?
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Get well, brother. I wish you the best in all things.
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Glad someone who cared did the work and hope you will bee here for us for years to come!
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"...and if you can't crawl... if you can't do that anymore...you find somebody to carry you." It may take a few of us, Harry, but The Browncoats are there for you!!! Take Care and get better soon, Man!
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Big Guy.
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They fix everything.
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I know we give u a lot of shit here..but the world wouldn't be the same without you..so get better soon Harry...we wanna see you do the electric slide with Yoko.
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Enjoy all those sensations in the private room ;)
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So happy you got the right diagnosis after all this time and helpful surgery!
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...and start living the dream. Your dream. The big one :) You're great at pointing all of us in the direction of our dreams--at least that's what I get from this site, so we'd be lame not to encourage you towards this goal. Go for it!!
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do it
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Jan. 15, 2011, 7:19 p.m. CST
So now that you're okay are you finally going to admit you liked Inception or what?
by Stuntcock Mike
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The world would be a poorer place without your rambling, personal history laced essays.
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Glad to hear you'll be so much better off when you finish rehab Harry. Take care and all the best to you and your family :).
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Recovery is the most painful part but wait til you see the results. Good on you buddy!
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and now I am heading to Alaska this April to heliboard. Anything is possible Harry, best wishes to you! I hope you have a wonderful recovery!
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One - love and best wishes for a speedy recovery. Two - willpower. down to YOU now, bro...
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Well, hopefully they've now found the real problem and you now have a new lease of life. All the best.
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i have been in a similar place, Harry. i losr my sight, then felt like dying. went to the "finest" eye physicians in my area for months and suffered painful treatments and still told it would get worse. then a new doc came along and said, "oh. I can fix this," and He did. i am one step away from getting enough of my sight back that i will be allowed to drive, to read books and magazines without bulky equipment. to read the words of a friend who has stood by me for 20+ years. the idea alone of regaining independence, self sufficiency and confidence... the idea alone makes the pain a small price to pay. it's so worth it. I may not agree with some of your opinions here at AICN, but for what you are experiencing right now, i can agree with you. Don't give up, and a speedy recovery.
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It's easy to give Harry shit but I love the big guy and he's been a major part of my nerd life, I dont wish this kinda thing on him
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Good lord you have a crazy life dude, amazing story! So glad you're okay and on the mend. You are a seriously lucky man, good luck with your recovery. The Geek world wouldn't be the same without you Head Geek! ;)
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And, if it'll be made for tv?
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It's got to be a relief to have some answers and results. I know what it's like trying to figure out what's wrong over a long period of time.
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Jan. 15, 2011, 7:53 p.m. CST
Jack Nicholson:I warned him about his Inception reveiw
by HeisenbergsBlueSky
seriously dude get better back pain is the worst.
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Jan. 15, 2011, 7:54 p.m. CST
Glad to hear you made it and are doing much better.
by Doctor_Strangepork
Hang in there, Harry. When life slips you a Jeffery, stroke the furry walls. My best to you and yours.
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Jan. 15, 2011, 7:54 p.m. CST
Harry, do you think Daft Punk has a chance at an Academy Award?
by Badger23
I certainly think they deserve it. It's the coolest score I've heard in years. Or will the old shits not grok the electronica?
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My wife had back surgery where they went in from the front AND the back. Good solid repair and a nice bunch of bolts! Be patient. The first couple of weeks of recovery are the roughest, but it gets better from there.
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Godspeed, Harry. I'm happy to know that you went after a second opinion, because doctors are inherently stupid. Granted, one wants them to tell you what you want to hear, and some do. Some want to further their career. Some want a paycheck. Cynical, yes. However, one has to step into their world to see what it is. Detachment is as crucial to a doctor as it is to 007. It really isn't any different than the business you've chosen for yourself, but sometimes one meets good people. People who have a passion for the same things you have a passion for. And things just work out. My sister is overweight. I am not suggesting that this is the root of your trouble, but I am just relating. My brothers and I are lean and athletic, and we worry about our sister. She thinks we're acting like a bunch of dumb jocks (little does she know that I'm a full blooded geek), but we aren't judging her appearance. We're afraid she's going to have a fucking heart attack! I hope she loses weight. I hope you lose weight too. You will revel in how nimble you will be. You will delight in how you will leap up a flight of stairs and scoff at their lame attempt at a challenge. You will marvel at how you can breathe. You will be mystified by your boundless energy. And you will live longer. A drinking buddy of mine is fond of saying "Any day above ground is a good day". You are triple fucking 'A' right it is. As a detached surrogate (since we have never met), I will say this as I have said to my sister - lose the fucking weight. I don't care what excuses you have. I don't care if your spine is out of whack. I don't care if your stomach is two sizes too small. I don't care if you live off of spare ribs and fucking Twinkies. You can do it. My sister can do it. Anyone can do it. Just get your fucking head in the fucking game and stick around as long as you can. It ain't about how you look, because any day above ground is a good fucking day. Triple fucking 'A'.
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who reviews would I bash if not yours get well soon.
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Seriously tho' get better soon so you can get started on putting off your next dvd column right away. BTW, going through your frakking chest to operate on the spine sounds really bass-ackwards and it's a good thing they didn't have to do it that way. Sheesh.
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We'll take turns controlling him. It'll be fun!
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and the doctor that called you 'headgeek' wasnt calling u that because he posts here. he was calling u that because thats the name of the secret military project u unwittingly signed away ur head for.
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Glad that you made it through.
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Hoping the best for you in your recovery!
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" ... Ooooh, sorry. Wrong Ms. Knowles."
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Take this as a reminder to get your ass in some shape once you've recovered. The longer you live, the more it will piss off the nutless monkeys here that do nothing but bitch about everything.
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I thought that was Beaks for some reason. Anyway, get well soon. xoxoxo EL CHOP
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Good luck with that bro. Godspeed your recovery.
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...you'll do anything to get out of doing the dvd column on time, huh? heh-heh
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Jan. 15, 2011, 8:16 p.m. CST
DR. PETERSON, IS HARRY THE FATTEST, REDDEST PATIENT YOU EVER HAD?
by BringingSexyBack
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Here's to your recovery and dance with Yoko!
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But if you hadn't been such a f*t f*ck I bet all that pressure wouldn't have been put on T10. Now go outside, breathe the air and live your life. Walk and walk and walk until you've forgotten this website.
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My thoughts are with you and your family.
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...to wish you a speedy, complete recovery....i have a small taste of this sort of thing, having a right shoulder held together by stainless steel screws & wire...recovery's no fun, but doing the work is worth it long term...be well, Harry
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Take it easy Harry and do what the doc's tell you to do. Before you know it you will be back on your feet in no time... or is that back on your ass watching movies in no time! ;)
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Feel better, Hare. I know fuck all about spine surgery and Dr. Peterson but I google the guy and found no horror stories so it looks like you'll be aiite.
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Jan. 15, 2011, 8:27 p.m. CST
I asked you not to use my real fucking name in the article, Harry...
by THE_CHOPPAH
the nurses won't give me a moment's peace once they find out I'm THE CHOPPAH. Way to thank a guy for restoring the exquisite to your sensations.
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Glad to hear it.
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A nightmare and a dream -- but did he dream big enough?
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is the most positive one I've seen for many years! It must be making you feel good reading all these kind wishes. Here I was, feeling sorry for myself after tearing a tendon in my shoulder and splitting up with my girlfriend. I don't feel quite so bad now. Medical science is certainly a wonderful thing (I'm trying to become a doctor myself). Here's to the rebirth of the new, improved Harry Knowles. We have the technology. We can rebuild him. He will be stronger, faster and more insightful with his reviews. Hang in there dude.
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Was all of this because of the cart running over you? Was this something no one ever found?
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Stay Strong!
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Time to give up the snacks mate. Life is too sweet to let it end before your time... Cheers, Conan.
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A lot of people care about you!
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would use it as a chance to make fat jokes and, instead, it's actually pretty positive. Who knew ? Seriously, Harry - good luck with the recovery. Hope it's the beginning of a real positive change in your health. My dad was a big guy, and after spinal surgery #2, he dropped 115 pounds and kept it off for 20 years - during which time he's never had another problem with his back. He's a whole new man. Hoping it all works out for you.
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We are sending you the "Helper Monkey" from Monkeyshines to aid in your Recovery
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Still glad to have you around. Thank God they got you to the hospital. Get well and be safe!
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Thank God Harry, wonderful to hear your news. Hope you get 105% soon!
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Fixed that for Harry. He realized his mistake earlier today, but as you can imagine he was on some heavy medication while writing and was in a little too much discomfort to make it a priority to pull out the computer and change the error. He was in good spirits and seemed to be well on the road to recovery. Get better, Big Red!
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Man, this is huge. You have a long, hard but amazing road ahead. Inspire us, dude. Inspire us.
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I'm as big an ass to you about inconsequential shit as the next guy, but deep down we know it's all for laughs, right? The entire Internet is pulling for you, man.
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We can only wonder how D. Vader feels about this whole thing.
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Oh, evidently we have it straight from his mouth. Edit button might have saved me from some minor embarrassment. Anyway, here's to intact spines.
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Damn, glad you're on your way to recovery! Amazing how something like that can turn into a blessing.
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crazy soul man
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How will this place function if the talkback hoards don't have harry to kick around anymore? THE HORROR......the horror......
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We all know the gods of geek do like to see a fat man dance. And in time, so it will be. Sure, there is hard work ahead an pain to be suffered, but you'll see Harry, by the passing of a year, you will do the Jitterbug Ride. And the gods of geek, and we all, on the other side of that YouTube Video, will be very happy for you.
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Best wishes big fella ... Speedy healing.
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Congrats on the successful surgery. Hope you feel much better soon.
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I meant to say DAMN! Scary shit! Best of luck, man!
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Might as well bling it out.
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Hey Harry. I give you a lot of crap for your writing skills, but it would truly suck if you weren't around. Glad you had the less-invasive surgery. Let me know if you need an editor and/or proofreader.
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Despite the shitslide into nearly-laughable mediocreville that this site has been on, I certainly do wish you a full and speedy recovery. Hopefully your new lease on life and the outlook that it brings will inject some validity into AICN and make it the force to be reckoned with that we all want it to be. Oh, and if you're gonna play with your dick in the hospital, make sure it's when the nurse has her back turned. That way, when she catches the motion out of the corner of her eye and it suddenly becomes a "Dear Penthouse" moment, it'll grant the tale a wonderful storybook ambiance. All the best, you fucking bastard.
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SO I CAN CONTINUE TO POST MT ART ON THIS SITE FOR YEARS TO COME.
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And Don't slack on the Physical Therapy. That will be very important to your outcome.
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and on your woman's birthday. Wow man. You know, when was talking about how much that back was hurting you about a week ago. I almost sent you a news link about the NFL giving money to Cornell University to help them move forward with a bio-engineered intervertebral disc replacement they are working on. If all goes well with each phase of the clinic trials (these trials take 10-15 years time) we could see dvertertebral disc being replaced with new fully functional discs that work exactly like our originals did. Fushions and Prodisc jobs never give you back your back the way it was. I sent you word about a nanoparticle injection vaccine that cures type 1 diabetes in mice- many, many moons ago, dont know if you read it though. http://www.nanowerk.com/news/newsid=15705.php /\ Check it out. Seems like there will be a full working cure in the not to distant future for that nightmare as well. If it can kick type 1 ass, it can sure as shit do it for type 2. Too bad it takes 3 phases worth of clinical trials to get these cures and treatments out to the people, and that always takes 10-15 years time, so frustrating. I am thanking the great unknown that you dodged this very bad outcome. Your site holds a very special place in my geek heart. I wish you and your family well.
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Get well Harry! You deserve all the best, I can't imagine the hope and euphoria you are feeling today... you're gonna walk again man!
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To dawg, I heard you like vertebrae...
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Jan. 15, 2011, 10:34 p.m. CST
Glad to hear your okay Harry but WTF with the Cristopher Lee comment?
by Eagleone
Since when was he crippled or severely injured. Plesae try filling us in on this when you report it??!!
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Get well Harry! Been there with the back surgery... My review of Green Hornet still stands though.
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Are a stone bitch to get to. Seriously, I've seen tons of those surgeries all over the spine (being a professional medical illustrator) and anything involving the thoracic vertebrae is always terrifying. The fact that he could get there... did he have to move and replace a rib? If he got there without doing so, he's a good sawbones. Recover and dance, buddy. Best Wishes.
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Happy to hear your on the right path. I hope you work hard on your recovery. I want to share your passion and knowledge of film with my grandiose one day.
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After all, tomorrow is another day.
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I hope you recover fully and I hope you will be able to dance with your wife!! good luck man!
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Jan. 15, 2011, 10:47 p.m. CST
Christopher Lee severed his T10 vertebrae in the film....
by Bobo_Vision
....2 Minutes to Midnight. Every self-respecting geek knows that.
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That whole moving aside organs didn't sound too hot.
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Vertebrae give me a boner.
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Exactly what it says on the label.
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Did you ask Dr. Peterson what his favorite movies were?
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The prognosis is excellent. The journey is tough. Wishing you a speedy recovery. God Bless...
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been reading the site as far back as 1999, and sincerely hope that you make a full recovery and put all this behind you in 2011.... you have been, and continue to be a huge inspiration to a lot of us.... all the best Harry...take care of yourself! cheers exador
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You've got more health issues than my 17 year old mutt. Good thing you got good healthcare down there even with the absurd costs. But wtf caused this vertebrae to fuck up? They are normally pretty damn tough and wrapped tightly in a bundle of very strong muscles. Especially in a young adult. Was it the result of some fall?...
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Jan. 15, 2011, 11:12 p.m. CST
Harold, as someone who recently experienced having to re-learn how to walk again.....
by zillabeast
I wish you nothing but the very best, brother. I don't think you'll be needing much motivation though. I was watching AVATAR with my niece and nephew earlier tonight, and I got to remembering your review about how awesome it was to watch Jake Sully get his legs back, and how you were right there with him the entire time. How tuned in you were to what that character was experiencing. Then I come online and read this. What started off as the nearest of near-death experiences may turn out to be the greatest outcome of your life. I'm certain that the prize you have your eye on is the most beautiful thing imaginable. Stay strong, stay focused, and this will all be behind you before you know it.
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please start taking care of yourself!! I love you man! Ive been reading this site for 10 years, and as much as i usually disagree with your reviews (except Scott Pilgrim FTW!!!) I genuinely love and still read every review you post. I can always see your passion and love for film in every review. I would be truly saddened if something were to happen to you.. with all that said with your newfound sense of self I would like to ask you to start really taking some of those side projects more seriously and start elevating the site to the greatness we all know it can achieve. youve got a real gem in cinematic shrimp DO MORE WITH IT!!!!
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"Second star to the right, and straight on till morning", brother.
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I´ve been sending them since i read your tweets last night. it´s such an amazing thing that you´re getting back your gold legs. We´ll be reading you and sending all good thoughts and words just like you´ve done for the last 10+ years. work hard harry, i´ll love to see you on your feet.
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good luck, harry
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Hope you get better soon Harry!
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Jan. 15, 2011, 11:29 p.m. CST
It's fucking 2011, WHY CAN'T WE CLONE HARRY A NEW BODY?
by Stereotypical Evil Archer
Seriously, it's 2011, and we can't clone yet; c'mon scientists, let's get this done and make all of us immortal. I hope you get better Harry, maybe we can get you cast in the Running Man remake that is no doubt inevitable. So hang in there 6 Million Dollar Man! (and I hope the Obama-care kicks in so you don't don't have to pay that much)
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And hoping for even better things to come. God Bless.
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Harry, I don't post often, but I visit AICN at least a couple of times every day. I don't always agree with everything you write, but your undying passion for film always comes through, and it makes you my brother. I am thrilled to hear this and wish you and your family the very best. Incidentally, Yoko's NEXT birthday is going to be phenomenal!
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Truly, truly happy for you, man. Wishing you a speedy recovery.
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Many righteous vibes beaming your way: do you accept the upload? Here's hoping you find all manner of shiny uses for your enhanced sensorium. Do consult Yoko for specifics... Heal, dude!
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Glad you're doing better and wishing you the best.
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"I just wanna tell you Good Luck . . . we're all counting on you!"
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Jan. 15, 2011, 11:40 p.m. CST
Last year an allergic reaction, now this? Get well Harry!
by Thanos0145
Eat healthy and exercise!
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We've disagreed over the years and I've even said mean things to you before, but none of that matters. I consider you a fellow geek and while we may not always agree. I enjoy your reviews. I'm not a mean spirited person. I care and I want you to get well. Hang in there Harry and good luck. *Bro hug*
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Here's to a better-than-full recovery Harry. I never knew you had such problems, but am glad to hear you're on the road to being better than you were before...better, stronger, faster....
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Jan. 16, 2011, 12:02 a.m. CST
He's more man now than machine, straightened and good.
by HyphenatedWords
All the best to you, Harry. We are peers, and approaching 40 for most people means that they are experiencing life and death much differently than when they were in their invincible 20s and headstrong 30s. Death takes us all, eventually, but we clamor to enjoy every last drop of whatever life we have left.<br> <br> Not everyone experiences a rebirth. While I wish the hardships you've had to face on no one, your spirit, intelligence, and talent were the greatest poker face in light of the cards you were dealt. We your readers have lived vicariously through your writing for years, and for those who have been paying attention, we have lived through your greatest personal moments and tragedies. We will all be there on the thrust of Minas Tirith to watch you emerge and walk with your wife to receive us eye-to-eye.<br> <br> My strength be given to your legs, and may your legs give you the means to achieve more than you ever hoped for. Meanwhile, your mind, that which has never known boundaries, will be rewarded and enriched by every new experience.<br> <br> There was a girl named Leilah I had a crush on in college. I was leaving the digital studio and wanted to leave a note on her car windshield under the wiper, something to make her smile. I had only one piece of paper with me. I started to write, "To Life, To Life, L'chaim," but I wasn't sure how to spell l'chaim. I was all about impressing this girl, so I froze after I had already written "To Life,". What to do?! Something came to me.<br> <br> To Life, Eyes Open<br> <br> That's what I wrote. She eventually married some guy from her Masters program and we haven't spoken in years, but that moment of serendipity have me what became my life philosophy boiled down to four words. For you, Lt. Dan, with your magic legs, To Life, Eyes Open.<br> <br> We love you, man.
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*MAY strength be given to your legs. I mean, you can have some of my strength, too, but....<br> <br> *...but that moment of serendipity GAVE me...
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Jan. 16, 2011, 12:05 a.m. CST
I picture Harry recuperating, hooked up to bubbling vats...
by FlickaPoo
...of people juice like Baron Vladimir Harrykonnen.
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Which you will live to see and review on this site (after sprinting in and out of the theater!). God knows people have thrown money at less interesting life stories (zucker anyone?). Blessings in 2011, HeadGeek.
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Thoughts, Prayers and all that jazz brother! Wish you a speedy and complete recovery.
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Jan. 16, 2011, 12:08 a.m. CST
Once again, the U.S. has best medical care in the world!!
by closeencounter
Speedy recovery Harry........
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I am glad things are working out for you.
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that the old people say are "watched over". That means you have something important to do in this life, so I hope your recovery speeds by and you are able to finally do the things that you want, and need, to do! God bless!
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it would be appropriate.
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Good luck and Godspeed to you sir!!!
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There's no other answers. Lose some weight and stop being a fat fucking sack of shit.
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Jan. 16, 2011, 12:34 a.m. CST
My cats told me that they put a skynet microchip inside you
by Dark Doom
Be well Harry, and give me a heads up when the skynet chip activates.
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and Thanks for giving us a place to vent, rant. joke, pwn, get pwn'd but mostly have fun in our geekness.
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So, it sounds like they fused part of the spine, right? I hope it all works out for the best, man.
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Hey man, Congrats on the whole no more wheelchair bullshit. Haters and Trolls like Banville persist, but I am comfortable in the knowledge that you will now be able to chase after and kill these douche bags while wearing tights. You can now be the fat superhero the world has been waiting for. Good luck with the recovery!!!
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Awesome post man!!! I can't think of anything better to encourage Harry to keep on going than listing all the awesome flicks to come out soon. We all know that's what he lives for anyway. Very cool!
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can't imagine anything worse! Made me chuckle..Good luck fella!
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Harry, Sorry to read this story. Pretty scary stuff. You are a man with many diversions . I love all the same stuff you do & we share the same birthday. Diversions such as movies,music & books can help us escape real life. As everyone knows,real life can really suck sometimes. It interfered with your diversions & your life BUT a positive vibe has come out of this. You sound like you might be a whole new man in a few months. I hope your recovery goes smooth. Hang in there, JP
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Now if that Doc could just fix the vertebrae that causes all of your typos. I kid, I kid...
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I'll try to tweet you a racist joke everyday
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Get well soon and when you recover make a daily commitment to exercise and diet and you will get there in no time. Best wishes.
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hope the rehab goes well and that you can stick with it fully, completely
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As an aside, imagine this: You're in your hospital bed watching the 10th season of Smallville resume when, lo and behold, Kristin Kreuk makes a guest appearance in the episode! Then, almost unbelievably, a new nurse starts taking care of you and she looks JUST LIKE LANA LANG!! Could anything be more perfect? Just wait and see! Then, the writers of Smallville do the right thing by ignoring the comic book canon and they write Lois Lane out of the series and have Lana Lang get back together with Clark! If what I just described isn't a large slice of heaven, then I don't ever want to sample a Pearly Gate cake.
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Glad to hear your doing well, considering what the other outcome could have been. Hope you stay strong in rehab and keep that spine as straight as Ian McKellen...I keed I keed. Get better sir
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hola, amigos! it's midnight, and this is frank cotton, reporting to you, live, from right next door to hell. the song you just heard was 1605 (for my sufferring) by DROWN, off the album PRODUCT OF A TWO-FACED WORLD, available @ AMAZON.COM. that's where i got my copy, and we'd like to thank you for your patronage. next up is BE QUIET AND DRIVE, by DEFTONES (and that's DEFTONES, fuckheads, not 'the deftones'. you know, like it's EAGLES, not 'the eagles'), but first, a word from our sponsor, NEW VISION. let's turn it over to...well, actually frank runs NEW VISION, so take it away, frank! hey, frank cotton here for NEW VISION. i'm a part-time deliverator for a national pizza chain, but that's just my cover. in the really real world, i'm an agent of fortune, an agent provocateur, a, well, i uh, was just going to go on for a bit there but, as we all know, or at least should know, words do have meaning, and should be chosen well and not just thrown around here, there and everywhere, all will-nilly like shrapnel, because they can be sharp, and painful, and in the wrong hands might could even get someone killed. so rather than sing my own praises, i will get right to the point and tell you a little about my company. it's a small concern, and none of yours, and what we, or rather i, do here is come up with ideas. big ones, little ones, i've got them all here, and for a limited time, that is, just this once, i'm going to let you have one for free, right here, right now. seriously. now you may be familiar with frank, or you may not, doesn't much matter either way, really, let's just suffice it to say that frank has been trolling around hereabouts for quite a while, trying to get some interest drummed up for some of his intellectual property. he's tried the subtle, thru channels bullshit approach, he's tried the shove it down your throat blitzkreig approach, and everything in between, to no avail. he's left messages for major film directors, e-mailed attachments to well known producers, and once even managed to piss off ALEX PROYAS on his own (his, not frank's), web site MYSTERY CLOCK. frank would like to apologize at this time, and say that he intended no offense. he was just trying to make a point, and altho he stands by what he said, he is sorry for the manner in which he said it, and the method he used to do so. to continue, well, let's hold up for just one minute and get frank the dj to fire up some tunes. how about some MINISTRY there, frank? anything's good, but what say you to FLASHBACK, or CANNIBAL SONG, or BREATHE, or, fuck it, just play 'em all! far-fuckin' out! so where were we? something about product...oh that's right. anyways, frank had pretty much given up. all but, at that. he'd gotten rejection notices, busy signals, outright rebukes and was even shown the door on one occasion. some fussed about copyright issues and wouldn't even look at what he had to offer. he did manage to get one thing published, he may have even mentioned it here @ AICN, once. SCARECROW! excellent dude, keep it rollin'! the fish showed a little interest in that one; he got several nibbles before he finally got a real bite (we'll talk more about that, later). but that was it. and to try and keep a long story short, since then, frank had pretty much lost all hope of ever amounting to jack shit. he went so far as to put in his will that he wanted everything he'd ever drawn, written, rendered, printed, or even sketched burned with him, when at last his time did come. no, i am not fucking kidding you, i can walk right back to the cat's room (don't ask, don't start), and have it right here, in front of me, and scanned, faxed, signed, sealed, and delivered to you instantaneously, if that's what it takes to prove it to you, in mere moments. so here's the deal. frank is fed the fuck up with trying to sell his ideas, so just this once, right after this here commercial break, he is going to give you one for FREE! that's right, free. it's a short story, brief and to-the-point, not 1000 frickin' pages like the work of some who we won't be naming at this particular time and place, an autobiographical sorta piece, that i think you might like. and if you don't, big deal, all it cost you was zip. a few wasted minutes out of your day. so how's that? sound fair enough? i thought so. what we're gonna do is, well, just post it right here, if HARRY don't mind. and that's it. then you can judge for yourself, whether old frank (and that's uncle frank, to you, baby) has a clue or not. or at the least, an original idea or two rattlin' around upstairs, somewhere or other. so everyone get a drink and a snack, or burn one, or whatever, and frank will be right back with the goods. now back to tonights broadcast, already in progress. next up, SOUNDGARDEN, with HANDS ALL OVER, off of LOUDER THAN LOVE (as heard in PACIFIC HEIGHTS).
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Hey Harry, I've been coming to this site for pretty much the entire time I've been on the internet. I don't remember if I've ever posted on a talkback before, but I just wanted to let you know that I am hoping for the best for you. This website has had a profound impact upon my life; I've always loved movies, but this site has time after time opened my eyes to new ways of appreciating cinema that I never would known had I not found this site. While I love Massawyrm and miss Moriarty terribly due to their excellent reviews, I think the thing that brings me back almost every day is the passion for movies you display here in everything you write. Even if you write a glowing review of a movie I'm not too keen on, I still smile because I know that review is coming from a place of pure love for movies. I can't even count the number of movies I've checked out based upon you mentioning them here, but I know it's a ton. From old classics like "Touch of Evil" to cult films like "Deathrace 2000," the love of movies on display on this site has expanded my cinematic horizons more than I can even explain. Please, get better. I've been coming to this site for at least 13 years, and I'd love to keep coming back for another 130.
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Scary stuff, glad you caught it in time.<P> About 6 years ago I had meningitis and would have died if it weren't for my girlfriend who ignored my insistence that it was only a bad flu and took me to the hospital.<P> A spinal tap, hospital quarantine, and a week later I was able to communicate clearly again without sounding like I'd had a stroke.<P> Point being, glad you had the presence of mind to get to the hospital. I think I speak for everyone when I say that we'd like to have you around for awhile.
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Best wishes to you Harry! Take care!
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In true talkback tradition! Glad you're enjoying the site HARRY made for you. For free. Without removing your imbecilic comments.<P>
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as for syntax, etc, i ain't got all day. at least i make the effort. lead by example, and all that
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this is the part where the training montage starts
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Let me lay my cards on the table – I think I am the devil. Whoa there! Don’t go running for a priest just yet, and watch it with that Holy Water! I’m not saying that I’m evil incarnate, the beast/666, that I’m possessed or even that bad a guy. Just bear with me, please. I would just cut right to the chase, but then this would be a paragraph, not a story, and a story should have at least a tad bit of suspense. A little background info is also in order to assist you in understanding how I might have reached such a conclusion. I will try not to ramble. As I said, I’m not claiming to be the devil in any traditional sense. I have no power or powers. If I did, I’d be doing tequila bong hits while banging some cute Goth chick on her 18th (I’m not the world-domination type), or something along those lines. Maybe I should have kept that to myself. The upshot is, I am powerless. Otherwise, I surely would not be sitting here in this smelly little apartment with the Rorschach Test carpet, smoking no-name cigarettes and writing this out in longhand. With that squared away, let’s move along to that background crap. I am, to put it bluntly, a loser. Not that I believe I am to blame for it, or at least not totally. To wit: I am pretty smart (although we are NOT talking about common sense here). My IQ tests out a hair shy of instant MENSA, at 128. 130 language, although you would not believe it to talk with me, or if you read one of my first drafts. I write, I draw well, and can build a PC out of parts in a couple of hours. I have been a professional cook, restaurant manager, electrician’s apprentice (couldn’t stand the weather extremes), repo man, sales ASSOCIATE (don’t you love that?), professional picture framer, and a computer operator. I can roof, plumb, wire and paint a house. Restore furniture. Lay carpet. I have written 70 songs (only the lyrics), and several short stories. I am working on three novels. I have also drawn thousands of pictures and designed several PC game levels (I would say I’m a polymath, but I’m not that good with numbers). In addition, I have read everything from physics, through psychology, to philosophy. All of this with only a tenth grade education. And did I mention that I was lazy? And the point is…I live in a smelly little apartment. I don’t design to brag. For all I have done or can do, I have never been an actual success at anything. Sure, I have some personality disorders. I have Tourette’s. I ain’t talk real good. I’m just a little bit introverted (I’ll bet that’s a big surprise), which does tend to put some people off, and limit my opportunities somewhat. But there are lots of far more dysfunctional people out there, making it big doing what they do best or, in some cases, half-assed. Yes, I have considered that I may just be a hack. People, especially friends and relatives, will lie to avoid hurting feelings so, could be. But what it all boils down to is, I have a slight persecution complex. No shit. And that could be where this idea of mine originates. Thought I was getting off-track, didn’t you? No, this is all working towards a revelation. This idea first occurred to me in one of my previously frequent periods of self-doubt and loathing. And OK, I might also have been stoned at the time. Which is why I will grant that this theory could be no more than a cumulative, psychological, knee-jerk reaction. I’m getting there. But perhaps I’m putting too fine a point on it by saying I am the devil. It’s really more like the devil is being me. No help? You’ll see what I mean in a moment. What makes this idea credible, to me, is the fact that it even came up to begin with. It first reared its ugly head a couple years back when, as I said, I was in a slightly less-than-ideal mood. I didn’t dwell on it for long - way too much freak-out potential - and pretty much forgot about it. But every now and then it resurfaces and each time it does, the simple fact that it has reinforces its prospective reality. Take today; too much caffeine and my mind will start to wander. Three cups of Kenya AA at Borders on an empty stomach (they allow one refill but I am kinda a bad boy), on top of an I’m-just-going-to-waste attitude and bam, here it comes again. So what is it? Well, I’m almost ready to tell you but I’m gonna have to throw a smidgen of Bible Study 101 at you first, so’s it’ll all click. All y’all atheists out there, pay attention. The Bible tells us that in the end, the devil, amongst others (that will probably be you atheists), will be cast into a lake of fire and the smoke of their torment will rise forever and ever; this being his eventual punishment for all the crime, war, mayhem, and general rebelliousness he’s been responsible for. For being the Ultimate Asshole. That’s what he is, you know. He does what he does for cheap laughs. It’s not like he can even hope to win. He’s a prick and he’s got it coming. But tell me doesn’t it, in a way, seem like it’s just not quite enough? Sure, it will bite, but it’s a mostly physical sort of torment. Cast your mind back over the ages, and see if you can fathom the sum total of mental anguish he has inflicted on the billions who’ve walked this earth. Misery to the nth power. Shouldn’t he have to taste at least some small portion of that? How about all of it? Well, it could be that he will. Could be, he already is. We’re almost home. Can you see it yet? Here it comes… The Bible also tells us that, prior to his final sentence he will be kept bound for 1000 years. It’s none too specific about where his head will be at for all that time, so what if, in the interests of justice, he had to sample some of the suffering he’s dished out? Not just something similar but the actual pain itself. Are you with me? What if, to while away those idle hours, he had to, oh, let’s say, live the life of every single one of us that has ever been? In a row. Or at least the more unpleasant lives. Just to see what it’s like. And what if, in each of these lives, after he’s cried out “why me?” a couple of hundred times, because of the horrible things that he had done to that very person whose life he now leads, this idea pops into his head? This idea that he can’t entirely discount, the uncertainty itself being integral to the purpose, that maybe he is, or I am, living out the life of someone I fucked over a long time ago? So there you have it. This thought that comes at me from time to time, which I can neither prove nor disprove. Insidious, isn’t it? For if it is true, to work, the idea would need to come up and the issue remain unresolved. With God, all things are possible, and He does not reckon time as we do. A day can be as 1000 years and 1000 years as but a day. And if I can have a dream what spans days in the nine minutes it takes until the snooze goes off again, how many lifetimes could God pack into just one second? I could be wrong, though, couldn’t I?
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Like many readers and bnatters, I guess, I have always wondered why Harry couldn't walk. Few of us realise how painful his situation must have been. Being trapped by a body that doesn't work can not be easy. Nonetheless, in a "fight club" / "saw" kind of way, I bet waking up from that life must be cool. It's cool to see that he's better.
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What a terrifying experience, but I'm so glad the docs found out what was wrong and that your surgeon could fix it. It sounds like you have a painful and long road ahead of you, but in the end, it will all be worth it. Good luck and I wish you a speedy recovery!
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Terrific news, to say the least. You deserve great things happening to you anyways, Harry :) ! Keep on, take it a day at a time. Really great that you ended up with that doc'. Thanks for sharing this news with us. I think very happy to hear of all this.
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Hope you feel better real soon and we all look forward to you being able to walk again!
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get well soon Harry. hope you make that dance !
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Jan. 16, 2011, 3:15 a.m. CST
Bloody hell Harry, im glad yr ok mate, and dont worry....
by KnightEternal
you will be running marathons before you know it :)....get well soon wishes from the UK mate
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now that is fuckin' awesome news! take it easy now, man - be strong and steady. 6 months! fuck yeah... :-)
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Jan. 16, 2011, 3:21 a.m. CST
Tone down the "recovery of full penile sensation" articles
by palimpsest
and we'll all be fine and dandy. There's things I don't need reverberating in my brain and frankly, my ginger chum, the exquisiteness of any trouser feeling when you're in the privacy of yer hospital room is one of them. That said, good luck with the recovery and the tap-dancing lessons. Hopefully we'll see you stumbling around like Peter Boyle in YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN. If it all works out, give the doc black box status. Get this sorted, and we'll work on your grammar, punctuation and syntax...!
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Jan. 16, 2011, 3:22 a.m. CST
All the best for rapid recovery!!!
by where_are_quints_hobbit_set_reports
Longtime reader, haven't commented in a couple years, but we love ya & believe in ya Harry!!!
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Get well soon mate!! Thnikning of you down in Oz
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Cheers!
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I shall continue to picture you floating in a bacta tank. Hang in there bud.
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Give Dr. Peterson a big kiss for me!! Get well soon!! An AICN fan ain't gonna' let you down!!!!!!
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Jan. 16, 2011, 3:58 a.m. CST
i crippled myself running downhill whilst drunk, wrecking my ankle....
by The_Cliffster
... took a lot of effort to recover and learn to walk again... the reward is worth it... slow but steady is the way... good luck big H... :o)
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I was ran over by a car and after only being in bed for a week and a half WITHair boots on, I still developed foot drop which is a pain in the ass to get rid of. So make sure you're moving your feet around and try to keep your toes pointing up. Get better soon.
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keep on trucking harry. i want to see you replace the animations with a live action gif!
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that was MISS WORLD by HOLE off the LIVE THROUGH THIS album on the all-night frank cotton show, live on radio K-A-L-I from deep inside the twilight zone. we have a request coming up from one of, well, me, actually. it goes out to the most beautiful woman frank has ever laid eyes on. like, ever. he just met her for the first time friday, let's hear it for, wait, you mean she's not here? oh, a request, yeah, right. this next one goes out from frank, to ASHLEY, the brightest star in the heavens. BE MY ANGEL by MAZZY STAR, from SHE HANGS BRIGHTLY. we'll be following that up with LIVING DEAD GIRL by ROB ZOMBIE, offa HELLBILLY DELUXE. as always, it's all guitars all the time, every night of the week, damn near commercial-free, courtesy of your friends @ NEW VISION (not to be confused with the CHURCH OF THE NEW VISION).
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and probably 14 and 15 and 16 ect.. Congrats harry and I think even Yoko might be getting a little something out of this birthday mishap =) I hope I get to see you walk on stage at the draft house some evening.
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This is the first of your articles I've enjoyed in a very long time. If you bring this same genuine voice to your movie criticism, I'll start reading you again. Congratulations and all the best for a speedy recovery.
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I've wanted to see you out of that wheelchair for years!! get to it :-)
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I think you ought to post a clip of you dancing on here when you're better.
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You can't put a price on your health. Now your back is on the way to being fixed you can really think about hitting the Gym and getting healthy. Put's me in mind of an Episode of Quantum Leap, where Sam pulls a drowning kid out of the docks and begins CPR..but the kid doesn't respond right away.. "Wake up or you're never gonna see Star Wars!" When you find it hard to get on that treadmill, or some greasy delicious snack blindsides you..think of all those cool movies you might miss out on! You wanna see Barsoom don't ya? Get healthy Harry. The place won't be the same without ya!
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Read this on another site wee-Im joking of course. Absolutely fantastic news!! Keep thinking of Harrys Avatar review where he did a very good job of conveying how fraustrating it is to be of limited mobility. Hope it works out for ya big guy! "This is great!!"
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You can do it!
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Let this be a lesson: Don't let your health go unchecked until you're faced with the possibility of death defying surgery. I say that as a fellow back pain sufferer. Working construction, a herniated my l4 and l5, worked through it for a month, screwed up my back even more, until I finally had to quit and seek help. In all I was out of work and in constant severe pain for four months. I was two weeks away from a surgery I was dreading (I don't like the idea of general anesthetic and machines regulating my breathing, my fate out of my hands, etc.), when I decided to quit sitting around and work on small, incremental back strengthening exercises that fortunately saved me from going under the knife. I'm still not 100 percent, my left foot is still slightly numb and I still feel the pain when I bend the wrong way, but I don't need surgery at the moment. Hell, my uncle, virtually a father to me my entire life, lived a hard partying, hard drinking life--couple that with hypertension, and he ended up with two aneurysms that he had to have 6-hour open-skull surgery to clip. He still has to have the third one coiled in a few months. I'd always considered myself an atheist, but I found myself praying harder than I've ever prayed during that ordeal. I still pray everyday. Surgery, even the prospect of it, is scary as hell for those who have to endure it and almost equally scary for those who love them. I'm glad you got the less invasive procedure, Harry, and I'm glad you and your family can move on with your lives and look forward to better days. We all need to take better care of ourselves.
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We'll all be thinking of you, Harry. Like you said, it's a long road, but at the end of it waits a better quality of life for you.
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...and I want you to be healthy. Now that you're getting your mobility back, GET IN SHAPE! No more excuses for morbid obesity. As free as you feel with your legs functioning, you can't imagine how much greater you'll feel once you drop all that excess weight. You will literally get a new lease on life when you don't have that weight dragging you down and tiring you out. And you'll live a lot longer, trust me. I got healthy after watching friends and family die from obesity related diseases and it's made such a difference in my life that I feel like an evangelist sometimes preaching about healthy lifestyles. Okay, off the soapbox. Take care.
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It must have been nerve-racking to be told you had a serious spinal injury, but then to have it work out so that it looks like you can leave that chair behind is just fantastic news. Best of luck with everything! Hope you and Yoko will be waltzing soon.
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Long time AICN lurker here, wanted to put it out there that if Harry & Co. experiences any financial issues related to what I can only assume was a very expensive surgery that I hope the members, readers of the site as well as fellow citizens of Austin will be their to lend a hand. My hope is that Harry is well covered but it is often hard for independent business owners to find good health coverage and high yearly deductible and 20% copay plus a bad economy can break ya just as quick. Harry, do not hesitate to set up a donation fund if there is a need, it would be a great opportunity for your community here to give something back. Get well soon!
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...I'm just pleased you're doing OK - all the best and good luck on that Harry.
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I know you'll probably pass over this, but I've been an avid reader since almost the very beginning (since 1996 if I remember right), and I don't really post ever, but I wanted to say how happy I am for you, and how awesome this was to read. Can't wait for the dancing updates!
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Weird to say it, but congrats. This is your Opportunity to make a great change in your life. This is a chance to be exactly how you want to be, beginning all the way back from step one. That's kind of amazing. Take it for all it's worth and more! Good luck. I am envisioning a near-future-Harry Knowles who not only is the man behind AICN, but also, with his new found abilities, has trained himself to be an avid komodo dragon wrestler, replicant hunter, skydiving sharpshooter, dancing enthusiast, and regular jogger. Glad you're OK, and go for the f**cking jugular, Harry.
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Truly wonderful news. All of your faithful readers are really happy for you, myself included.
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here on the allnight show at 6.6.6 radio, where it's night time, all the time. the sun never shines here @ the black hole @ the center of the universe, where we've just finished a HOLE block. yes, we LOVE COURTNEY here @ the house that love built. that was USE ONCE AND DESTROY, HIT SO HARD, HEY YOU, and MALIBU off of the album CELEBRITY SKIN. those were dedicated to frank's mom, EMMALENE, who would have loved COURTNEY like a daughter if only she'd been able to meet her. who knows, maybe she will yet. anyways, where the hell was i headed with...oh, that's right, it's time for the official SMOKE BREAK here at the station. for all you kiddies, just so you know what to get for an offering, should you ever stop by (that means bring your own GODDAMN CIGARETTES, by the way), frank smokes MARLBOROs, CAMELs, or WINSTONs. not 'salems', for cryin' out loud, those are FOR GIRLS! MENTHOL is addictive, people, wake the fuck up! it is now almost seven thirty sunday morning, time to get your lazy, hungover asses out of bed, get some coffee started, and get ready for church. don't want to go to church? too bad, you're going anyways! you've got a lot to account for, and you'd better get to it, and how! so, to start your day off right, we're going to throw on some SOUNDGARDEN. here's a trifecta of NEW DAMAGE, MIND RIOT, and DRAWING FLIES from the BADMOTORTFINGER disc. stay tuned afterwards for a word from our new sponsor, SUICIDEGIRLS.COM.
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I know I don't always agree with Harry's opinions but I do believe the big guy has a big & good heart so here's hoping for a full & speedy recovery.
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Sorry to hear your news, Harry, But damn it man you're a survivor. This BS is just a blip on the horizon. Best wishes :). JM.
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Jan. 16, 2011, 6:50 a.m. CST
Harry can feel his legs better than he ever has before...
by JethroBodine
Harry can feel his legs better than he ever has before, ain't it cool!??!?! :-D Get well soon big guy.
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Like anyone with strong opinions, I don't always agree with what you have to say, but I always enjoy reading it. I wish you all the best in a speedy recovery. Get well soon headgeek. I look forward to seeing a picture of you and your wife doing a tango some day in the not too distant future.
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Yes I have indeed been wondering what was wrong. Glad to hear it's something that can be fixed and made to go away. It'll be a lot of work and therapy and annoyance and weight loss discipline but it will be worth it. Good luck and hurry up because the withdrawal for the lack of your dvd column is already beginning! Lol.
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Harry, best wishes to you and Yoko through this crazy time in your life. I expect by this time next year you will be doing karate, zumba, and taking Yoko out on a "re-do" birthday date (don't forget that last one or she may end you). In all seriousness, I wish you nothing but blessings, peace and an amazing recovery all surrounded by your loving wife, family and friends. God bless big guy...
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I kid, I kid. All the best Harry.
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And Harry, please, please, please, please, please, please, please, please do something about your weight. You are not getting any younger.
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Still can't figure out if that means he's really lucky or really unlucky.
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Good luck on putting all the pieces back together, and whatnot.
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Your heart will thank you. You don't want to miss Thor, do you?
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been posting here since 1997! I'm about to turn 60, and am busy training for a triathlon. Your story of Yoko's birthday party reminds me to *never* complain about my aging physique.
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Harry, You're mind won't be on this for a while, but is there any chance the site will go back to a scrolling view when reading posts? The need to open every post tends to really discourage reading through a topic.
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ya fat bastard. It worked for me. God Bless.
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Get better big red.
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I am very very happy for you and your loved ones. I truly hope that your recovery goes smoothly and that you may indeed dance with your wife.
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thanks for sharing harry. made me laugh that yer doc was a fan. good job.
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and had an immediate orgasm. Is that good?
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So does this mean there will be a DVD review delay!!? Feel better HaRRY! So glad you are ok!!!
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I wish you nothing but the best Harry. Post a pic when you get to Dance with Yoko!
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Jan. 16, 2011, 9:49 a.m. CST
Gene Siskel once made a joke about the "Hollywood Hospital"
by James_Camera_On
where you check in but you never check out. It was a movie cliche that annoyed him, as many did, and when he went back into the hospital following complications with his initial surgery, he was confident he would " . . . beat it. People beat this sort of thing all the time." Unfortunately, he checked into the Hollywood Hospital and everyone knows the rest. Harry will probably make it this time, but he has to come to grips with his health in a big way or the next time he checks in it will be into the Hollywood Hospital.
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Supes' mom, Lara, passed away yesterday. http://tinyurl.com/47j7vk8
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This terrific news! Now get to healing!
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Karma rewards good people eventually, keep on going on Harry!! May those that hear our Dreams, Wishes, and Prayers continue to brightly shine you way!! Much Love
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I honestly don't know (not trying to be a prick). I wonder how much his insurance premiums are...yeesh.
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"GIT 'ER DONE." Seriously, though, Harry - this is just the beginning. Work hard, take care of yourself, and good things will happen. Best wishes!
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Harry, So very moved by this - almost had me crying. I am glad things are moving in a positive direction. I had no idea how truly serious your health condition was - so thank you for sharing this. Keep it going... and thank you for sharing your passion for the world of movies and television with us. Fan of 10+ years. Peter from Cleveland, Ohio
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I've been a reader of the site and the talkbacks for years but I've never been compelled to create an account and post my own comment until now. I just wanted to congratulate you, Harry, on getting to the bottom of whats been wrong and wish you a speedy and fruitous recover. This is truly a new beginning for you and your whole life is now ahead of you on a much grander scale! Make the most of it!
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Jan. 16, 2011, 10:18 a.m. CST
Been reading AICN since 2000 and never posted a single talkback - til now... in my prayers, Harry
by Nick Eisenlau
Spent 3 months in Austin on business last year, finally saw a movie in the famed Drafthouse on Lamar that I've heard about for ages (exceeded expectations) - kept wishing I'd run into the ginger Headgeek there or maybe the Whole Foods mini-city. The internet is a funny place - Facebook has made it commonplace, but I still find it an oddity that you can feel like you know someone when you've never met them... and after 10 years of reading AICN, since college, I have that same illusion about Harry. So reading this had a profound effect - I know Harry has always struggled with health problems, and the sheer audacity to hope that there is a light at the end of the tunnel, that it may be possible to dance with his bride - well, that's the type of melodramatic Lifetime movie that transcends cliche when it's happening to someone you care about, someone who's a friend - where those very inspirational cliches cease to be relevant. Perhaps one day we will meet and I can thank you for opening up a slice of culture that I would have never seen from my safe, suburban upbringing. Til then, Godspeed on your recovery, and let the rest of us know what you two chose for your first dance.
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Get well soon, Harry. Thoughts, prayers and good wishes are all streaming your way.
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Take care, my friend. Good wishes from Zurich!!!!
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Live And Prosper!!!
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Here's hoping we find a leaner, healthier version of you after this is all over. We all want you around for a very long time.
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because it is gonna be a bitch!! Trust me on that one. But it will be worth it for you. Working legs are a nice thing to have. Now loose some weight!! And get well soon!
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hope for a speedy recovery, Harry
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Funniest line in this TB goes to..."Maybe you can find a doctor who has access to a fucking grammar bank, and your insurance will pay for a transplant. Good luck with that." That is some funny shit.
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Get well! All sorts of love and good vibes from Canada, buddy!!!!
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Jan. 16, 2011, 10:40 a.m. CST
...I love all these "THE U.S. HAS THE BEST HEALTH CARE...
by FlickaPoo
...IN THE WORLD!!! AMERICA, FUCK YEA!!!" comments. Uh, this should never have gotten to this point. Oh, we're really good ad dramatic surgery after everything's fucked up beyond all recognition. What this needed was preventative care...correct diagnosis...maybe someone to help Harry not eat himself to death in the first place. We lag in nearly every statistic that counts...longevity, infant mortality...but I hear we do pretty well in the emergency/nearly catastrophic spinal surgery for obese quasi-celebrities department.
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And thanks for everything you do, and have always done.
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That was another close call. The gods are with you, dude. I wish you a speedy recovery.
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As a long time sufferer of similar problems, I am glad to hear you are being sorted out finally nice one :D
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What you went through sounds absolutely horrible. I can't even imagine. But I'm glad you're better now. Take care of yourself, man.
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I wants pics of the dancing bit. Glad to here you are on the mend for good this time. Kepp up the physical therapy no matter how hard it is. It will work wonders for you.
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Jan. 16, 2011, 10:55 a.m. CST
I know we give you a lot of shit, Harry...
by Inexplicable_Nuclear_Balls
but it's just because we love ya. I've been visiting daily since the very beginning, it would be hard to imagine a world without AICN. Best wishes for a speedy recovery!
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Just created an account. I've been reading this site forever and now have something to say. Harry - I had no idea you were in such rough shape. I knew there were weight and mobility issues, but didn't know something this severe had happened. Anyway, for what it's worth - get better soon. I'm glad this site is around, and I'm glad you'll be in better shape than ever. And when the pain gets too much, just imagine a young Tom Beringer with his hand clamped over your mouth..."Take the pain"!
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life, there very well being is on line, especially one who created a website, where it seems a lot of the pricks come to speak there opinion, about fucking MOVIES, yes i love movies like all of you, but guess what, if you don' have something supportive to say, then go somewhere else to discuss whatever current superhero isn't being brought to the screen how you've imagined it in your head since you were a young geek. really. i've been a longime lurker never said anything, but felt compelled to say to those douchenozzles, who HAVE to say anything mean or hurtful (ya ya, im a sensitive creature, someone once said we all are, in a song) to give your head a good long shake. long enough to actually cause brain damage, cause then u might become a little more stupid and dosile. making u a more pleasant person to come across in life, im assuming that those people are like that in their day to day life, and on the message boards. Lets have a healthy exchange of thoughts and ideas people. And to you Harry, get well fast brother!!
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Have a quick recovery, and screw anyone who says they don't like your stream of conscious reviews and thoughts - keep us posted on your progress and what happens along the way. (And hey, a "chord" is played on a guitar, a "cord" is inside your spine...)
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I can see the reviews now... "A triumph of the human spirit.." Seriously though, glad to hear things are getting sorted out for you!
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lawdy lawdy......... Big guy gets hurt, people come to wish him well, and you try and turn it into some sort of swipe on the United States medical system? EPIC INTERWEBZ FAIL!!!! seriously Clark?
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Heres to a speedy recovery!!!
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Granted, mine wasn't quite so serious - and unlike your incident, mine was at least mostly my fault (broken femur from slipping while trying to get to phone) - but having had chronic back pain for more than a decade now and minor circulation problems, all because of the immediate orthopedic surgery needed when I was born and the resulting inconsistent leg-length, and now the femur break that has me recovering well two-and-a-half months later, albeit still in outpatient rehab - I can still relate. I often disagree with your more... "political" interpretations of movies and such, or at least your preferences along those lines, but I resepct the accomplishment of AICN, which is entirely yours, and thus, respect you as its, well... "HEADGEEK." Almost single-handedly, you've made BEING a "geek" not only acceptable, but in some ways, actually preferable... pseudo-intellectual and, dare I say it... "COOL!" That said, I'll wrap this up by saying that, from experience, your optimism WILL go a long way. I'm sure, also, that you won't let anyone try to tell you otherwise, because whether or not it makes sense, it's still true in these instances (most of the time), especially when one has as much to live for as you do, and recognizes it - as you also seem to do. Clearly, you've come far enough with AICN that the site goes on, either way, but I just wanted to echo the rest of those with the same sentiment and say good luck and... get well soon. JDM (jorson28)
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...just responding to comments above re: U.S. health-care above, friend-O. Cool yourself.
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Well, sir, I might have chosen a Mr. Incredible reference to describe the MRI scene but that one is now burned into my brain. Here's the line *draws line in dirt* and waaaaaay over there is you. Thanks, man. Get back on your feet soon, soldier.
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i don't know you but i happy for you. stay healthy.
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I read the site daily, but post infrequently. From someone who has minor back problems, I can only imagine the level of relief and mind blowing possibilities flooding through your mind now. Glad to hear that you're on the mend and finally have the root cause of your problems fixed and in the past. Good luck in your rehab. It certainly wont be easy, but keep your eyes on the prize. Regardless of how much others may gripe about it here, keep us posted how you're doing. I think your surgeon should get a special invitation to BNAT13. ;-)
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Get Well Soon
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I don't often post (if ever) but I've read your site for Donkeys years and I'm really pleased and touched that you're on the road to good health. Post video of you and Yoko dancing! :)
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Trend a few more pounds off when you get out. Big head start on getting to a healthy weight. Get well.
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You are an inspiration sir. We can't wait to see you dance. On a side note- I was once UltraTron. Site was hacked. Now just ultratron. Lame
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you don't need to be toddling out of existence just yet before The Avengers movie hits. That would have been a crime against existence itself (your passing this early). seriously though, all the best on the journey to being healed Harry.
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...nothing is too good to really happen! In the meantime, enjoy the pain meds and the attention!
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Which means you are overweight and sedentary. You must change that, immediately. If not for you, do it for your wife. Get well soon.
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You'll have to learn to accept and love the new 'you' What a wonderful gift.
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I want you to post again, I want to see a picture of you that I won't believe is you. Get better , be strong and DON'T give up because its going to get tough! BE WELL!!
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God bless and keep you and yours, Harry, and I wish you a speedy recovery!
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Harry is in good hands, but no one can make him wak if his body isn't ready to. If he's going to re-learn to wak he'll have to really knuckle down.<p> UPDATE: Harry just wakked almost two meters across the hospital ward! He just tweeted how happy he is. The guy in the bed nextdoor saw the whole thing and apparently broke into spontaneous applause at the joyous moment.
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Flicka, don't look at the big picture! Angry lynch mobs don't like it when people do that.<p> This isn't about healthcare this is about Harry wakking again. Get with the program (just not the heathcare program).
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Jan. 16, 2011, 12:32 p.m. CST
Of course the coward cobra-lai defends the shit shmear flickapoo
by Hey_Kobe_Tell_Me_How_My_Ass_Tastes
stupidity exists in his dojo
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Jan. 16, 2011, 12:36 p.m. CST
" But I was told I was in one of the Neurosurgeon's hands in the world."
by barry convex
Allan: "You have the most eyes I've ever seen on any person." -Play It Again, Sam
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All of us in the Atlanta bunch are rooting for you, Harry! Get well soon! Ed in Athens
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Jan. 16, 2011, 12:39 p.m. CST
good luck harry, i may hate your taste in most movies, but ill never slam you for your medical condition
by Hey_Kobe_Tell_Me_How_My_Ass_Tastes
now watch the coward cobra-lai and flickashit say they were not really making fun of harry's condition but were commenting on healthcare in general when this thread is about harry and his condition not the fucking US health system - and did they even have one good word for him? assholes
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but dear God don't be seriously hurt. Who would I have to bitch at for fanboy Lucas love if you weren't here?
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...I'm starting to think you really do lurk outside the Dojo at all hours of the day and night with your hand down your pants. How else could you swoop in so fast like that?
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from the sadly neglected WORLD OF NOISE. we're going off the air for stretch, so frank can give his bro MARK aride to the sto. he had some platelets injected into the back of his achilles tendon couple days ago, and is stuck in some ROBOCOP looking boots. we'll be back on the air soon, and we'll leave you with one last song - this one is for HARRY and YOKO. HER BRAND NEW SKIN, from SPARKLE AND FADE...
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To get through the pain and the annoyance of therapy, just keep your eye on the ball...life is gonna be amazing from here on out!</p> <p> What's a couple months of pain 'n aggravation when you've got years to enjoy the fruits of your effort now!
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Get well soon Harry so you can enjoy to tango, and mambo like the rest of the humans.
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Jan. 16, 2011, 12:51 p.m. CST
i have a troll-shit alert program keyed to the coward cobra-lai and flick-eats-shit
by Hey_Kobe_Tell_Me_How_My_Ass_Tastes
works every time hey who's whatchin the 'kid' you transsexual-look-at-me-i'm-so-fucking-needy-psychotic-lying piece of whore shit? of yeah your 'wife' that you made up and still tease the creepy coward cobra-lai with because the only 'women' he will ever speak to are the online virtual kinds that he stalks like a fuckin paedo at schoolyard fuck you
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I hope to see you at next year's Austin Comic Con, strolling confidently on your own two pins.
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Because if this doc was a "big fan" of his writing, he's certainly not a genius. His opinions? His enthusiasm? Sure, it's infectious sometimes, but I don't know anyone who is a big fan of his writing.
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Get well soon dude....
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More likely, though, this will inexplicably take up 2/3 of your Avengers review.
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HOLY FUCK! Hey_Kobe's care home assistant musta forgotten to force feed the drooling fool his medication!<p> Kobe, I know you're typically a cunt with nothing but unpleasantness to spew but today you're even more mong-tarded than ever!<p> Someone wipe the slather from his jaws before he electrocutes himself on the keyboard. I wouldn't mind but it's the only keyboard the care home has.<p> ps. On topic, get well soon H. You will wak again.
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Jan. 16, 2011, 1:29 p.m. CST
Much love to the big guy through thick and thin!
by The Reluctant Austinite
I'm always encouraged by the love shown by readers here. I think there's an affection for Harry even by the bitterest Talkbacker, and sometimes even when busting Harry's balls it's just out of old school prankish affection for the guy. Harry makes me laugh even when I'm reading something as serious as this. Example: "The ultimate goal. Re-teach me how to wak." I didn't know if I should fill in the left out letter with "l" or "c"!?!?!?! Even Harry's typos are funny. I hope as early as next year Harry and I will walk to the Highball from the Alamo at BNAT together.
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Best wishes big guy!!
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Good to hear you're okay HK!! Feel better!!
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Glad to hear you will be dancing with your wife soon. take it slow and enjoy it Harry.
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Longtime reader and follower of AICN. Been following you for years. You and your site are inspiring and informative and sure is a change of pace from those critics that have no clue. You changed the industry completely. Sounds like you are on the road to recovery. My family and I are prayin' for ya, dude. You'll be dancing before you know it. FM
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And what a way to experience your legs again; to the awesome Tron: Legacy soundtrack! Which track was it, might I ask? Here's wishing you a painfree speedy recovery!
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what a roller coaster of a birthday! i've been around since Titanic and I'm so happy for you!
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Hey Harry, glad to hear you are getting through this. I wish you a fast and full recovery!
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Congratulations, Harry! Best of luck and get well soon! Soon you'll have to use a different seat in the movie theater! All the best!
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sorry, somebody had to do it.
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Get well soon, old man
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Jan. 16, 2011, 2:51 p.m. CST
Damn, that's hardcore. Here's wishing you a speedy recovery.
by AzulTool
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Pain is weakness leaving the body!
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We need a place to "live" and we really enjoy it here;)
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We're pulling for you.
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Support, and sincerity, over cynicism, and cruelty. Help Harry heal.
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Sending my wishes for a speedy recovery and a better quality of life to follow. Hope to see you dancing around at Fantastic Fest. Please take care.
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Best wishes Harry on your recovery! Please keep us posted on your progress. Thanks for the site!
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BEST WISHES FOR A SPEEDY RECOVERY HARRY. ALL THE WAY FROM THE U.K..GET WELL SOON
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Jan. 16, 2011, 4:03 p.m. CST
Did you tell the Doc that all his personal info was snatched during the "attack"?
by Stuntcock Mike
If so, you're probably rockin' some sweet ass Donkey vertebrae right now.
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isn't Cobra Kai.
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Wir brauchen Dich noch ...
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since 1998 i guess, when AICN posted some Kubrick photos from the Eyes Wide Shut shoot. Been a fan ever since. Here's to your fuck.... i mean, to your godsend recovery!
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pack some of that away in your suitcase for the slow peaceful drift home.
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God bless.
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Hope you make a fast and strong recovery!
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You are a good guy - let's hope this is the thing that fixes you. Best to you and yours.
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The letter you're looking for there is; "n"
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... get well, ya bastid! Glad to hear the prognosis is a good one!
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Get better soon big guy. As a father, I'm sure your Dad has a gigantic grin on his face knowing your going to recover well. All the best to you, your wife and your Dad. Now, I'm hoping to see the next site animation as the "Operation" game featuring "Cavity Harry". Only one slot: 1,000,000 points for taking out "Spinal Tap"!
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Since you need some reassurance over the control of your feet. http://www.inspire4less.com/productimages/9780679882800.jpg
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and we'll tell him Yoko married the guy who reviewed the leak Wolverine print and he'll be all like, "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!"
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It's been more than 30 years since I studied neuroanatomy, but it seems odd that your first doctors planned spinal surgery from the front. Isn't that like operating on your right eardrum by entering through your left ear and going through your brain? I'm so glad you found a surgeon who knows where to find the spine!
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Jan. 16, 2011, 5:04 p.m. CST
Goddamit we need to come out with a better plan to kill Harry
by Seth Brundle
fucker is so far indestructible! lol get better soon you mofo!!!! i want many more years of AICN! :D
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Jan. 16, 2011, 5:05 p.m. CST
Its simple: Lose weight and live or you'll miss THE AVENGERS
by Seth Brundle
cant find a better motivation than that!
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but you have the makings of a great diabolical villain! Breakable! what effect does this have on your porn watching? because this is relevant.
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Seriously, dude, what will it take? You had gastric bypass surgery over a year ago and you're still morbidly obese? The surgery doesn't work if you're still eating like a pig. The surgery is only supposed to jump start a healthier living style. You must implement permanent behavioral changes and stop playing Russian roulette with your life. You are doing to die unless you start eating properly and exercising.
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I've been visiting this site since 1999. Read your stuff in Sci-Fi Universe. Glad they were finnaly able to fix you up.-----later-----m
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I've had my scares in the past as well. Really happy to learn of your recovery. Keep it up bro!!!!!
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It's great news, Harry. Here's wishing for a speedy recovery!
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I dunno what to say, man. You remind me of my father, and not for good reasons. My father is 77 and morbidly obese. He peaked about 10 years ago at 185 kilos (about 420 lb), although the only real weight he has lost since is muscle mass. He cannot walk more than 15 yards unaided, and is out of breath after 25, even with something/someone to lean on. He is on a cocktail of drugs to keep his heart beating normally and his blood from sticking in his arteries. He has ulcers in his legs which flare up from time to time, and may one day cause him to go Gabor and have to have one or both amputated. The only reason he has lived as long as he has, is that for 25 years he played rugby, until he was 45. He was a very fit man most of his life. When he met my mother in the 70's, he was cycling an hour to work every day. And then cycling back in the evening. Nevertheless, the man I know, the man I have known all my life, is a lazy, overweight, depressive slob. When I was born, he simply gave up. I loathe him for that, for setting a pathetic example and being a terrible role model. A part of me secretly thinks that when he eventually dies, I shall be relieved that the shame I suffer from him will no longer hang over me. Don't let this happen to your kids. Live to let them know that you fought, that you came back from the brink, and that you wanted to teach them by example the values of courage, sacrifice and effort. Or else, like I with my Dad, they might never forgive you.
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Genuinly cheered me up, very happy for you man. Carter beats the devil with science!... Harry when this works just don't go hanging out with any Carny folk or pitchin' any baseballs anytime soon please...
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but EVERY year I swear I read a article about Harrys health... how often do you read articles about a skinny blogger (because at this point, we all know he is just that, a blogger) bad health? never. I like to ask, if Harry was addicted to chewing tobacco and lost his jaw, would we feel bad for his choice to chew tobacco which inevitably resulted to his jawless face? these thoughts came to me when I seen a commercial for a show on A&E called Heavy... now, if Harry had testicular cancer, ok, sure I get it. "get better (BIG) guy"... but ugh, Im not one to show sympathy for someone who causes their own destruction. but hey, maybe Im a asshole?
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my fat, furry friend.
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Glad it turned out OK. Good luck with rehab. On a side I'm impressed you managed to slip in a few geek film references while describing something so intense. Well played sir. Well played.
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God bless you and your family, brother. My prayers are with all of you and I wish you the VERY BEST in life. You've brought much joy and happiness and fun into our lives. Now I pray that you have the best years of your life ahead of you. Its no coincidence that this happened on Yoko's birthday - its a rebirth for both of you.
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I'm rootin' for ya
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Will be good to see you on your feet :)
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Get Well Soon, Congratulations and Much Strength For The Road Ahead!
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Glad you're on the road to recovery. Get well soon!
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scariest bad/good news ever. hope we see you dancing headgeek. Thank you.Dr. Peterson/
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Get well soon Harry! I need more reviews to vehemently disagree with! Seriously though, don't die.
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I hope this all works out as best as it possibly can. Amazing stuff...
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Harry, I hope you have a successful and permanent recovery. Best wishes!
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I bet you'll never look at that scene in the same way. --Congratulations, Harry. Looking forward to seeing you in the next P90X infomercial. :-)
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Jan. 16, 2011, 8:25 p.m. CST
Good luck and god speed my friend; second star to the right and straight on till morning
by TexasStorm
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Do not feed them. It's like putting water on gremlins. I have my issues with Harry, lots of them, but I think I can still be a human being about this. We wish him the best, very glad he was not paralyzed, look forward to recovery.
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Get well soon! What great news for you, Yoko, and Father Geek. You deserve to dance, and with this great news, I hope you reach your goal to get up, get out, and enjoy life without having to fight your body to do it. As someone who has gone through back surgery and recovery, let your goal always keep you strong. Visualize the dance with Yoko as you suffer through the worst of it. You can make it!
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please harry lose some weight, don't kill yourself with food
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Speedy recovery!
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I'll be hoping you WALK into the booth and we can commiserate together about our damned disks. I had lost use of my left arm and through the miracle of medicine (and the steady hands of a neurosurgeon) I got my arm back. I even kept my pilot's license! I hope you have a good recovery like I did! You know my email and my phone number. I'm on vacation this week. If you need anything let me know. Pat the projectionist
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Harry...you gotta ditch the gut, homey. It's clearly trying to kill you. ...and if that spinal doctor doesn't get an honorary pass to BNAT this year, I will seriously stop reading this site.
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This is seriously good news! Soon it's time to engage in some full-on lightsaber battles. Best wishes for a speedy recovery.... make it in 11 parsecs.
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The pain reminds you that you are ALIVE, even moreso than before. Cherish every nerve-wrenching bit of it. WORK YOUR A$$ OFF, and NEVER quit. Go get it, man!
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Awesome news Knowles. Hate that you're in pain, but it's a means to an end right? Speedy recovery.
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Glad to hear it, Harry! Hey, you know who to thank!! Here's hoping (and praying) all your dreams come true.
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Get well big guy... Fanboys 2 needs to be done!
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THAT WASN'T YOU!?! THOSE BASTARDS! Get well soon then..
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Just to let you know hos just far your words go... Man try to lose some wait, I dont want to offend you but I f you really love Yoko think about whats best for her and for you
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Jan. 16, 2011, 11:13 p.m. CST
Rest up, be well, and get those dancin' shoes ready
by WriteForTheEdit
Sending one more round of good vibrations to you, Mr. Knowles. I can already see the triumphant video of you and Yoko cutting the rug at the next BNAT. Rock on!
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I hope eveything works out, Harry, and that you are able to to bounce back strong.
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Seems like this might have something to do with the accidents and weight problems of the last few years, no? I'm looking forward to a more vital Harry Knowles! I'll be expecting a full-on Rojo Body Slam on my first trip to Austin! Just wait till I'm good and drunk first.
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Sounds like some scary times were had, and a challenge yet to come, but if it means getting you on your feet again and an end to your health problems, then it is all worth it. You're so lucky to have caught this in time and to have someone who knows what they're doing to make you well again! I'm very glad to hear that your long-time problems may be over.
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Harry, As a fan for a long time I have to say. There would be no site with out you. Hang in there man. Get well. As a man in a wheelchair I can tell you to listen to your doctors. Looking forward to your return. Rich Jensen III Placentia, CA
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I am glad this procedure has worked so well so quickly.
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i give you credit my friend....great swindle....i should have thought of this one at an early age.
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Jan. 17, 2011, 1:39 a.m. CST
Don't forget to keep us all in the loop on how your recovery is doing
by tjrmusic
So glad to hear that everything went well. We are all wishing you speedy recovery. Stay positive. There are greater things ahead for you.
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...but wanted to add my best wishes to the list here. Nobody should have to go through that amount of shit, good luck with the recovery!
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"Keep the faith Harry!" It's great to hear of your recovery, hope once you are up and dancing that you don't forget about the geeks that worship you! Now that you mention dancing.... Any chance you could be an early contender for the lead role in a Saturday Night Fever remake?? White suit, black shirt, giving it loads on the floor??
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And start taking a better care of yourself, big boy. You are not a young kid anymore. You are pushing 40s, remember?
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Harry, That is the best fucking news I have heard in a long time! Amazing. Hang in there my friend. Rehab will be a freaking nightmare but the end result, wow. Truly unbelievable! I know you can do it!!!!
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You will cease to be a 4-wheeler? That is absolutely fantastic, great news!!!! All the best for you and a speedy recovery, so whenever I see you again (last has been BNAT 10) you will be walking!
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I was going to post something snark, but after reading your story of ordeal, I just couldn't bring myself to do it. Try to watch INCEPTION when you're feeling better, perhaps you won't drift off.
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"Re-teach me how to wak..." Whoa dude. If touching your belly made you estatic... hehe thought you'd like a joke. As a wise man once said: "A laugh can be a very powerful thing. Why, sometimes in life, it's the only weapon we have."
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Fatty fat fat fat! Seriously though, been reading this site for many years and you guys have saved me a shit tons of money by watching all the garbage first. And I genuinely appreciate the effort and the love you put into your reviews. One of the best reviews I ever read I think was a review of 2 Fast 2 Furious. I lol'ed hard. And the Superman script review where Superman comes from Naboo and Lex Luthor was Kryptonian. Good times, man, good times. God bless, Harry, and take good care of yourself now, ya hear?
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Congrats on your good fortune, I hope you take this as a sign that true happiness in life comes from living a life of moderation. Please learn from this and moderate your diet. I enjoy your site and your passion for movies and hope to do so in the future. Take care and know that there are people out there that you have never even met (and likely will never meet) who care about you and are pulling for you.
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There must be a movie in this somewhere.
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Sounds scary and at the same time glad that you finally got some well deserved help! Get well!
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Take care!
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If all that was wrong all these years was the T-10 vertebrae, why didn't they go in and fix it ages ago? If it showed up on the MRI now it should've also been apparent much earlier. It seems as though you weren't getting adequate care for a long damn time. Count yourself lucky that you didn't sever your spinal cord this go around, but also look into who dropped the ball for all these years. If you've been having tingling or absence of feeling in your legs for years, that speaks to a negligence by healthcare professionals and pehaps a bit too much procrastination or denial on your part. In any case, best wishes on your recovery and on dancing with your wife!
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then I will heal you. Then "You improvise, you adapt. You overcome." Harry is going to go OLEG, and kick this problem in it's ass. Give 'em hell Harry. Then get back and kick Herc's ass.
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I just had similar surgery in August, last year. My spinal cord was pinched and ready to break as well. I am doing MUCH better as I'm sure you will be as well. I wish you health and healing. Get better Head Geek, we are counting on you. Mark
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We can build a stronger and faster Head Geek! Get well soon Harry.
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Your site has provided me with many years of entertainement and information--I wish you nothing but the best!
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I hope you are 100% very soon!
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To you Harry, I can imagine the ordeal you are going through, but with hard work and perserverance you are going to be just fine it seems.
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Glad to hear you're getting better, but just so you know, everyone has a spinal cord, which allows us to play musical chords.
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That someone could have a complete disregard for their health their whole life. Then when something major happens it's "boo frickin' hoo, whoa is me". And this outpouring of support, are you serious? Harry brought this on himself for not ever caring for his health to begin with.
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Good luck big buy! We want you back in good health soon! Although I'm sure you will find a way to post here anyway!
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you are awesome
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Thank you for sharing your story!
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Dude! I hope when life goes bonkers for you, that you can have the grace and peace that Harry has shown.
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Harry, Glad you dodged a bullet there. Get well and take care.
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over half a ton of dead weight, and see how you feel afterwards.
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This is great! Glad to hear everything went so well. Get better!!
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and I'm very sorry for anyone who have to go through serious medical procedures. However, the good news more than makes up for it. Well done!
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Well, that was a shocker of a post I wasn't expected to see today. Take care of yourself, Harry! You've been given a rare extra chance that most people with chronic health issues never get. Don't squander it. Love ya, headgeek.
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What are you going to do, drop Harold on me?
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I've known a few people in my life with unexplainable medical problems. There's nothing worse than not knowing just what "IT" is that's causing so much trouble. Finding out what "IT" is and finally being on a path to fixing "IT" are great moments. Here's wishing you the best, Harry. Have a speedy recovery!
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Get well soon, sir!
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Indeed Hail Harry! Gods-speed, best wishes and indeed a successful and speedy recovery. From your very British friend, Quintus Arrius! Hail!
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Touching and terrifying story- great stuff for the inevitable movie about your life. Stay strong and get well soon.
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Harry is married? To an actual real live human female? She's completely blind, isn't she?
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And there are a lot of dicks on here. I wish these ungrateful pricks could get an IP ban and be done with it. They have nothing to contribute and talk shit about someone just because they're 15 and think it's cool. Again, get well, Harry.
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I may not be your biggest fan, but I certainly wish no malice towards you, best of luck in getting up & dancing!
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We give you grief sometimes, because we love you. The world needs AICN, and AICN needs its Headgeek. Your story is amazing, thank you for all that humanity. Get way better, real soon.
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Your life's been on quite the rollercoaster ride as of late Harry, but thankfully it sounds as if better days are ahead for ya, man. Best of luck with the recovery.
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Jan. 17, 2011, 7:01 p.m. CST
Thats why, Harry, never shave your legs, even if your wife wants you to...
by aphextwin
There is something magical about feeling that breeze gently through your legs hair :P Get well soon Big guy, there is plenty of exciting stuff to do in your life!:)
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This is my first time post. This is excellent news. Just wanted to wish you well. We met at Wonderfest 2010. I hope to see you again sometime,maybe WF again, all fully mobile.
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That's kind of terrible and amazing all at once. Now that I think of it, in a way, that sort of sums up how I've always felt about your writing. Get well; condolences and congratulations.
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Sounds like you lucked out and got a damn fine surgeon. Hope you're back on your feet soon.
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Hey Harry, I hope you get well soon. This is the best movie news website on the internet. Sorry to hear about your medical problems. I like your outlook about the situation. I will be praying for you. Take it easy.
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Much love and prayers sent your way! May you have the speediest recovery and return to us soon! Put YOU first. Take care of YOU...then take care of us. We love you!
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you will be in my prayers..rest,then work hard and you will be better then ever
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And enjoy those new limbs. And send that surgeon a basket of cookies or something, when time allows.
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of incredible things that have been accomplished while comic con figures out how to sell passes. Get well soon!
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That's awesome Harry!! Thanks for keeping us apprised of your situation!
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Scared the shit out of me for the second time. First the allergic reaction, now this. Hang in there, get wel soon.
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I created an account just to wish you luck in recovery. Sounds so utterly terrifying, what you went through. Let us all know how you're doing when you can, but for now just hang in there, dude! Very happy for you.
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Scary, but awesome. My uncle recently had a disc fix / back surgery that just didn't exist until recently. As a result he's had migraine headaches and all kinds of other chronic pain vanish, plus can feel his legs and hands -- which he hadn't felt fully for like the last 20 years. Absolutely life-changing, and he wasn't as hobbled as you to begin with. Here's to hoping for a fantastic outcome and a quick recovery. Great news, Harry. Ain't it cool indeed.
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He knows what's up. Keep on healing!
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Glad to hear the surgery went well, and you are on the mend. Feel better soon big guy!
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Do it for CHOPPIE!
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Jan. 18, 2011, 11:40 a.m. CST
One day, I'm gonna turn on the TV...
by HarryKnowlesNonExistentInceptionReview
... and there will be Harry, propounding on why I need to donate to The National Organization to Prevent Runaway Carts Filled with Comic Book Longboxes. Get well soon, dude!
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Get well Harry! Tough it out big guy!
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No freak accident during surgery leading to mutant super strength and crime fighting abilities? Oh well, maybe next time. Get well soon Harry!
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Jan. 18, 2011, 12:22 p.m. CST
Glad you are doing better fat ass hopefully will not be able to call you that soon =)
by Craig2574
Glad you are doing well after surgery from one fat ass to another =) Not sure what we all would do without your quirky writing =)
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Jan. 18, 2011, 2:20 p.m. CST
WOW Harry! May you be dancing with Yoko sooner rather than later, big guy.
by Cervantes
All the best for a speedy recovery.
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Just dance with your wife and I will be happy enough. On second thought, dance with your wife, then get back to being our faithful reporter. As for the dance, might I suggest the Batusi?
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Harry, like many I have never actually met you but consider you a friend - I hope your recovery is swift and that your life is long and free of misery - we need you, Harry, so get well soon.
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I was thinking of that skit in the Family Guy where Peter is in the hospital and the doctors decide to fix him up and make him the million dollar man, and he has a- Aggh I'mma ruin the joke, check it out! :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kse0MG5n9wI Hey I bust your chops sometimes too. I appreciate the fact that you can take criticism with the best of them and you also are open to all different forms of opinion. It's really great news to know that you're going to walk again! All the best! Peace
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Jan. 18, 2011, 9:57 p.m. CST
MAKE HARRY HAPPY HOLLYWOOD- BRING BACK TREAT WILLIAMS FOR SUBSTITUTE V
by SmokieGeezer
Get Well Soon, I read youre stuff everyday back in England. SmokieGeezer@Yahoo.Co.UK_
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and very well written. How come every time you're in the hospital, you write like a totally different person? Are there really TWO Harrys? Anyway, I sincerely hope that this is the switch that turns on the light and you're not just able to walk again, but to get yourself into great shape and be so productive that you create Geekbook.com or whatever it is you were inspired to do by The Social Network. Also, I hope the great exodus from this site slows a bit or that what you're doing is REALLY big... like we come back one day and you've got a fucking web ring like Vulture, Gawker, io9, etc., only MUCH FUCKING BETTER because of that oh so beautiful creation of yours... the talkback.
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Hey Harry, we might not always see eye to eye but I have to respect you and this site. And get well soon. You deserve it, big guy.
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It seems like a history of health issues may be taking a turn for the better. I seriously hope that you recover fully and take this as an opportunity to continually improve. Best of luck to you, please keep us posted and understand how important your site is as a gathering place.
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That is some terrifying, and ultimately fantastically good, news! Congratulations. Seriously. I once dated a girl who woke up one day to find that her legs no longer worked. Doctors said MS. She had to re-learn how to walk, and did, but lived for many years with the knowledge that, ultimately, the MS would be the victor, not her. When she found out, some years later, that she had been mis-diagnosed, and did NOT have MS, well... it changed her life (for the much better). I wish the same for you. Physical Therapy will suck, to be sure, but the pay off will be worth it! Stay positive
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Best of luck on your recovery.
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God bless and get well then ...GET BACK TO WORK! We miss you.
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Harry that was movie. I know how you feel. I got into reviewing movies basically because I saw you do it here on this site. I love your writing "voice" when you do your DVD columns, movie reviews and generally all your posts. You are truly an inspiration man. There must be something about the age of 24. I almost died at that age. I was really close. I was diagnosed with a rare blood disease called TTP (Thrombo, Thrombocytopenic Purpura) in which my blood clots which can break off and go to heart-lung-or brain (already had one go to lung and barely survived it) or doesn't clot at all which can lead to me bleeding to death. I generally have low blood platelettes and it is a constant battle staying alive. I relapsed the same year and spent about 3-4 months in the hospital and about 6-7 months getting treatments. Then in 2003 I got bit by my cat and got a serious infection. In the hospital again for 6 weeks and had my leg operated on. I had a bad reaction from that and when I got released something wasn't right. I had bleeding in the stomach so I went back to the hospital for 6 more weeks. I was diagnosed with Lupus after having serious pain in my right wrist and it ended up being arthritis which now makes doing the simplest of things hard for me. I can totally relate to what you are going through. I spend every second of every day in pain no matter what pain meds I take. Other things have come up such as Hyperhtyroidism and eventually high blood pressure. But through it all I consider myself lucky. Lucky to be alive and experience the last 10+ years of my life. Anyway enough about my conditions. When I saw what you had going on here I felt much like you. I have an absolute love of movies. I love to write and I realized as my financial situation got worse that I wasn't able to buy movies much anymore. I had to do something to continue collecting. So it hit me one day when reading one of your DVD columns that I wanted to do what you do. Review movies. So I searched and searched, for days, weeks and little by little I found more info on how to make it all happen. I found a site that would allow me to review movies so I started out with Netflex and did a few reviews there, then tried Amazon and then I did tons more research on movie studios, PR companies etc and wrote to them non-stop about my passion for movies. Doors started opening for me, slowly but surely. After tons of rejections and try-agains I got in some of the doors and got movies to review. I think I will never get used to it. It's a surreal experience. As I said, you've been a major influence on me and I want to thank you and send my best wishes for your recovery. You're in my thoughts and prayers. Take care....... P.S. - Where's the real Inception review?....... Kidding!
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Amazing how a scary crisis turned out to be a blessing in disguise!
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...stay strong! wishing you and your family nothing but health and happiness!!
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A man barely alive. Gentlemen, we can rebuild him. We have the technology. We have the capability to rebuild the man's spinal column. Harry Knowles will be da man. Better than he was before. Better, stronger, faster.
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I am INCREDIBLY excited at your news. We'll be sending prayers and happy thoughts your way.
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Can't wait to have you back, but glad that you will be back and better than ever!..Congratulations on everything and wish you the best!
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Lucky for you it wasn't a T-1000 trying to take you out. I'm relieved you are OK and wish you a speedy convalescence. On the bright side, at least now you have some free time to watch movies.
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I hope you got some Adamantium put in there to help shore things up. Spoiler alert: Harry makes a full recovery.
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Get well soon.
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Here's to a speedy recovery, good sir. Thanks for all you do.
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Late to the "party", went offline last days. Nice to see you are already recovering. We geeks and our mighty super powers, heh. I read your reviews since B&R, keep the good work, dude. Cheers.
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with a Bataleon board, Union flight bindings and a mission to carve and be awesome. Like me! Get better soon Harry
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Get well soon!!! Youll come out of this a better man
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Best wishes for a speedy recovery, and you should auction your chair for charity or summat.
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I was lucky to have Dr. Daniel Peterson repair my spine and provide relief to the nerve bundle going to my left arm, and went from having a slowly dying "phantom" arm to being fully functional again. The guy is one of the best in his field and I'm glad you got the same treatment, Harry. If we ever meet we can swap spine surgery tales; until then, I wish you a speedy recovery!
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