My friend, Jimmy Bruno

[TD]

My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.

Have a good evening.

Tony DeCaprio

[bobhess]

My prayers for the great Jimmy Bruno.

[Anon Anon]

I'm very sorry to hear this Tony.
My best wishes are being sent his way.

[Lord Valve]

SMOKIN' player. Here's to his speedy recovery!

LV

[Joe Finn]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:

I hope Jimmy will be ok. What I saw on fb was encouraging. Let's hope he is feeling better soon. ...joe

[Dom Minasi]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:

Sorry to hear this..sending him healing vibes

[Tim McNamara]

On Wed, 19 Jul 2017 19:52:36 -0700 (PDT), TD <decap...@yahoo.com>
wrote:

> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been
> hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the
> precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain
> that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he
> fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious.

Ah, shit. I hope Jimmy is getting better. I learned a lot from
his online school program. He's a warm, funny guy and a great teacher
not to mention one of the monsters of jazz guitar. Saw a recetn photo
of him at the Hendriksen bot at NAMM and he was looking pretty damn
good.

I hope he is getting better and will be well soon. I recently had my
own ICU experience and I gotta say they do great things for their
patients, so I have high hopes. Get well soon Jimmy!

[ott...@hotmail.com]

Thanks for letting us know, Tony.

You know him and I don't, but he seems like a pretty strong willed guy who has overcome quite a few things in his life, such as Carpal surgery etc. so I think he should pull through this as well,

All the Best, Jimmy,
Bg

[Steven Bornfeld]

Damn, that's rough. Wishing a speedy and complete recovery.

Steve

[TD]

The situation holds at serious. This is a big drag.

[bobhess]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:

FROM THE FACEBOOK PAGE JIMMY BRUNO GUITAR WORKSHOP

Hey "Gang"
(As my dad would say during the opening of almost every lesson on the website, which drove me absolutely nuts). Here's where we stand as of today:
Yesterday afternoon it looked like he was finally starting to take a turn in the right direction. They were able to get him completely off the real heavy sedative and onto a new (less heavy) sedation. He was stable, doing well for a few hours, breathing comfortably with a smaller amount of help from the vent.
Last night, he began to really feel the effects of the pneumonia (being actively treated) and started to fight really hard. He tired & stressed himself out, so they put him back on the heavy stuff to give his body a rest, while they try to address some other issues going on with him.
This is definitely a set back, but something we are hopeful he can overcome. There's an all hands on deck approach going on with his medical team, to whom we owe all our thanks and endless efforts in providing him with the utmost precise medical attention.
To every single person who has donated 5 dollars to 1,000 dollars...
YOU all are what is shedding some light during one of the most difficult times in our lives. The future is unknown, and we are taking things a day at a time.
YOU all who have texted, called, posted on Facebook/website, offered to help with the baby, cooked food, offered a shoulder and a listening ear, offered prayers, words of encouragement, funny stories, and have shared memories and pictures, are what is helping us get through this.
I think this is a clear testament to the love and energy he put out into the world, and this is also a testament to how good people truly are.
I hope the next update is a more positive one. We can not thank you enough from the bottoms of our hearts for your support.
Now everyone go hug your loved ones a little tighter tonight & continue to send him good vibes.
God Bless,
The Bruno Family

[Tim McNamara]

Thanks for sharing that, Bob!

For those who don't know there is a GoFundMe site set up for Jimmy, they
set the goal at $10,000 which seems very modest and and probably an
underestimate of what they are eventually going to need. The bills will
be big (I have no idea what kind of health insurance Jimmy may have)- I
was in the hospital for two weeks after an accident earlier this summer
and have a stack of bills on my desk totalling about $190K (thankfully
insurance covered all but about $3K of that). That was after only 5
days in ICU, 5 days on the step down unit and 4 days in acute rehab.
After he gets out of the hospital he's not going to go straight back to
work. Jimmy needs our generosity now, in return for his generosity over
the years on the newsgroup.

https://www.gofundme.com/support-for-jimmy-bruno

The GoFundMe page indicates Jimmy had a subarachnoid hemorrhage after a
fall. The pneumonia is not an uncommon complication of ICU care with
the immobility that comes with being under sedation, etc. Thankfully
that is usually very treatable, but it's an addition complication. I
don't know if his SAH was treated surgically- that would depend on the
size of it and the effect it is having on the brain. If it's fairly
small, they may just watch and wait.

[TD]

The situation, as it now stands, is quite grave. I am receiving almost daily updates. I am very saddened by this. I understand an experimental drug may be introduced.

[Gerry]

I hope you both recover completely and in short order!

[Tim McNamara]

On Thu, 27 Jul 2017 19:59:39 -0700 (PDT), TD <decap...@yahoo.com>
wrote:
>

> The situation, as it now stands, is quite grave. I am receiving almost
> daily updates. I am very saddened by this. I understand an
> experimental drug may be introduced.

I am sorry to hear that, Tony. I know you and Jimmy go back decades.
If they can get the respiratory illness cleared up, the picture may
improve quite a bit just from that. Hopes and good vibes being sent
Jimmy's way.

[Tim McNamara]

On Fri, 28 Jul 2017 07:38:10 -0700, Gerry <add...@domain.com> wrote:
>
> I hope you both recover completely and in short order!

Thank you, Gerry! My recovery has been complete and I am back to my
normal life. Jimmy's situation is much graver than mine was and my
thoughts and hopes go out to him and to his family for a return to
normal life, too.

[clevelandjazz]

Just donated. Thanks for posting this. I had no idea.

[TD]

Please pray for Jimmy, even if you don't pray. I don't pray, but at this point I don't mind acting a hypocrite. It's not at all good.

Tony

[Mark Cleary]

Will do Tony and for Jimmy. I think what you describe is what you actually understand. There is a power greater than us. I would like to talk to you about Tony but in the mean time I have Jimmy covered in Prayer

Deacon Mark Cleary

[bobhess]

Any updates on Jimmy?

[Joe Finn]

On Thursday, August 3, 2017 at 1:39:40 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:

I hope he gets better soon. He was always very nice to me and he's too young for this. .......joe

[TD]

I believe that I just gave it.

[Tim McNamara]

On Thu, 3 Aug 2017 10:39:31 -0700 (PDT), TD <decap...@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> Please pray for Jimmy, even if you don't pray. I don't pray, but at
> this point I don't mind acting a hypocrite. It's not at all good.

Ah, shit, man I am sad to hear that- for Jimmy, for his family and for
his friends. Hang in there Jimmy!

[Joey Goldstein]

This has been very depressing.
I hope he pulls through this.

Joey

[van]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:

Prayers for Jimmy.
It's been a horrible year for guitarists- Allan Holdsworth, John Abercrombie was in the ICU for a while, Chuck Loeb passed, Frank Vignola had a serious ATV accident, and can't play for a year, and now this with Jimmy.

[John Galich]

I just checked the GoFundMe page, and his daughter posted the following update yesterday:

"We need your prayers and good vibes sent our way. Here's the latest update:

Dad is fighting like a champ. Unfortunately last night we found out his kidneys have shut down. Yet another set back. As much as we we're trying to take it a day at time, reality has set in to our family that this is going to be a LONG road to recovery, and he has a ton of hurdles to overcome. He is still fighting the pneumonia, his sepsis, and fighting to drain a ton of fluid. He has started dialysis today and we are praying every second that his body responds and starts to make a turn for the better. He is still heavily sedated and has a lot of help from the ventilator.

Throughout this whole process we weren't sure what the future holds for us, and now we're just kind of in a state of prayer. So all the prayers and good vibes your sending out means more to us then ever before.

The medical team is doing all they can for him. Now it's up to his body & the man above to see that he overcomes this.

Everyone's stories, their support, kind words, visits, and phone calls have meant more to us then you could ever imagine. I don't know how families get through this with out all of that. For each and everyone of you, we are grateful.

GOD BLESS,

The Bruno Family"

Needless to say, his kidneys completely shutting down doesn't leave many options. From what I understand, either it's dialysis or a transplant.

Indeed prayers for Jimmy and his family.

John Galich

[Dom Minasi]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

Truly horrible...I hope he can he through this. Sending him healing thoughts.

[Tim McNamara]

On Fri, 4 Aug 2017 11:35:52 -0700 (PDT), John Galich
<jmga...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> Needless to say, his kidneys completely shutting down doesn't leave
> many options. From what I understand, either it's dialysis or a
> transplant.

It's not clear that it's to that point from what the family posted.
Acute kidney injury can be temporary and the kidneys can resume
functioning when whatever is causing the problem is resolved or at least
managed.

On guess can be made based on the publicly available information is that
at this point dialysis is the only option because he's just not healthy
enough for a kidney transplant. The good news is that dialysis can be
very effective very quickly at clearing up the waste products in the
blood, pulling off the excess fluid they mentioned, etc. But clearly
Jimmy has a fight on his hands- sepsis can be a very severe health
problem all by itself. Best wishes and fervent hopes for him turning
the corner to be on his way back to health.

[TD]

Outside of occasional split second auto-response to stimulus, he hasn't regained consciousness, since hospitalized, which is going on three weeks. Kidney failure is one aspect only. His organs seem to be breaking down like a domino effect, or so it seems. Scull fracture, blood clot in brain, fluid in lungs and pneumonia and enlarged heart. As of this writing, he remains on ventilator and there is no change in his condition, as told to me by his wife.
However, miracles do happen and it seems as though that's what may be needed at this stage.

If he maintains no improvement, he will be moved to an outside facility to stay on artificial breathing apparatus, as was told to me. I don't believe in guessing nor do I believe in various types of blind speculation, as in addition, I am not there in the hospital to have a look-see and hear. All I know is that anything can happen in this world and it's not always the negative. We send positive energy as much as we all can muster up.

[Joe Finn]

To think that this man who brought so much joy and inspiration into the world is now being sustained by medical machinery is a dreadful thing to contemplate. Our thoughts of course are with Jimmy’s family during this difficult time. We are all hoping for his speedy recovery despite the grim prognosis; and miracles do happen. Keep a good thought.

[Tim McNamara]

On Mon, 7 Aug 2017 14:42:45 -0700 (PDT), TD <decap...@yahoo.com> wrote:

> Outside of occasional split second auto-response to stimulus, he
> hasn't regained consciousness, since hospitalized, which is going on
> three weeks. Kidney failure is one aspect only. His organs seem to be
> breaking down like a domino effect, or so it seems. Scull fracture,
> blood clot in brain, fluid in lungs and pneumonia and enlarged heart.
> As of this writing, he remains on ventilator and there is no change in
> his condition, as told to me by his wife. However, miracles do happen
> and it seems as though that's what may be needed at this stage.
>
> If he maintains no improvement, he will be moved to an outside
> facility to stay on artificial breathing apparatus, as was told to me.
> I don't believe in guessing nor do I believe in various types of blind
> speculation, as in addition, I am not there in the hospital to have a
> look-see and hear. All I know is that anything can happen in this
> world and it's not always the negative. We send positive energy as
> much as we all can muster up.

Hopes, prayers, good energy, whatever we call it- being sent to Jimmy
and his family and friends.

[damonseed]

mahalo TD.. really appreciate the information... We miss you on the site and your interrsting
and informative posts... Always been a big fan and learned alot from his vids...Hope he has a speedy recovery

[Gerry]

Thanks for the update, Tony.

[bobhess]

I took the liberty to repost this. It's from Jimmy's Facebook page
JIMMY BRUNO GUITAR WORKSHOP

Hello everyone! Thanks for the continued support. Jimmy is still under sedation at the hospital but he continues to make small improvements every day. The staff tell us his stats are looking better and better. We'll be posting a video update from Jimmy's family early next week with the latest information.
Thanks again to all the musicians who are reaching out to offer video teaching contributions for Jimmy's students. Josh and I will be shooting new lessons for Jimmy Bruno's Guitar Workshop with those of you who have donated your time and expertise. Your help ensures that Jimmy's commitment to his students continues, even while he's away.
Enjoy your weekend, listen to (and play) your favorite music and spend some time with your family. - Rand

[Gerry]

On 2017-08-18 21:46:18 +0000, bobhess said:

> I took the liberty to repost this. It's from Jimmy's Facebook pageJIMMY
> BRUNO GUITAR WORKSHOP
>
> Hello everyone! Thanks for the continued support. Jimmy is still under
> sedation at the hospital but he continues to make small improvements
> every day. The staff tell us his stats are looking better and better.
> We'll be posting a video update from Jimmy's family early next week
> with the latest information.
> Thanks again to all the musicians who are reaching out to offer video
> teaching contributions for Jimmy's students. Josh and I will be
> shooting new lessons for Jimmy Bruno's Guitar Workshop with those of
> you who have donated your time and expertise. Your help ensures that
> Jimmy's commitment to his students continues, even while he's away.
> Enjoy your weekend, listen to (and play) your favorite music and spend
> some time with your family. - Rand

Direct link:

https://www.facebook.com/JimmyBrunoGuitarWorkshop/

[Gerry]

Just watched a few videos of Jimmy on that facebook page. What a nice
guy he is.

[TD]

These fellows should tell the real story and keep the business separate. Very poor judgement to play games in this type of situation. This is my opinion. Keep the workshop going? Great. False statements, not good.

[Tim McNamara]

On Sat, 19 Aug 2017 11:44:09 -0700 (PDT), TD <decap...@yahoo.com>
wrote:
>

> These fellows should tell the real story and keep the business
> separate. Very poor judgement to play games in this type of situation.
> This is my opinion. Keep the workshop going? Great. False statements,
> not good.

I am very sorry to hear that this report may not be accurate, as it was
at least a litte hopeful about Jimmy's condition.

As for the other point- yeah. It's tough when the entire business
hinges on the active participation of a single person, but yeah. Keep
the business going (heck, there is a lot of valuable material to work
through in Jimmy's absence) but be up front about the fact that he's ill
and not a part of it right now. They have lined up some guest
instructors, apparently, but one of the key things has always been Jimmy
watching the videos of the students and providing them with specific
targeted feedback. That's what makes 'em Jimmy's students.

Best wishes to Jimmy!

[bobhess]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

http://www.philly.com/philly/entertainment/philly-jazz-great-jimmy-bruno-in-critical-condition-after-fall-20170818.html

[bobhess]

https://www.facebook.com/JimmyBrunoGuitarWorkshop/

[TD]

UPDATE ON JIMMY'S CONDITION.

My information is directly from the source and not otherwise.

I am very excited to say that Jimmy has finally woken up from coma. The moments are very brief( up until now he would open his eyes for a few seconds out of shear reflex), but for the first time he knows he is in a hospital, but doesn't know why. He is able to acknowledge family and friends. This is wonderful. He is by no means out of the rough, but looks like we may have a miracle underway.

He does have some brain damage and heart trouble, but he is at least semi-conscious and with that, there is hope he will survive.

I can't wait for him to start cursing his ass off. Then I'll feel very relieved that he will be alright.

Tony

[bobhess]

Yippie!

[Steven Bornfeld]

Thanks for the update--that's very encouraging.

[Joey Goldstein]

Good news.

[Joe Finn]

On Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at 2:40:14 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:

I saw on fb that he is able to breath without the ventilator. That would be a step in the right direction for sure. It's good to know Jimmy is finally making a little progress! ....joe

[Dom Minasi]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

It is good he is making a little progress. It's going to be a long road to recovery

[TD]

As it now stands:

I am sorry to say that Jimmy has taken another turn for the worse. He is back on ventilator, out of hospital, in a long term facility. His mental status continues unknown.

Jimmy and I go back too many years. This is all but freaking me out. Last we saw each other was about 3 1/2 years ago...I had driven down to Philly (Abington) in the dead of winter. We played some tunes together after we completely fried one of his student's mind (he wanted me to sit in on a lesson he was about to rap up just as I arrived) and had a great hang. Somehow I have always managed to lay a one liner or a memory on him that he would end up bringing up forever afterward. This particular time, I coughed up, "Ahh, you and I lived a life of debauchery." I'll never forget how hard he laughed. It was a hearty laugh and even his wife laughed!!

In my mind I can only come up with "Get well muthafucker!!!"

[Dom Minasi]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

sorry to hear this Tody

[TD]

OK, here's the deal:

Jimmy woke up cursing his dick off!!! Isn't that wild?? He is now OFF the ventilator...wow! No one knows about the extent of brain damage, but after several weeks, he is now talking a little and it's mostly cursing and asking for scotch and cigarettes. He does recognize his family. He doesn't recall at all what happened to him, but this is a start, at least.

I'll post more as I hear it.

Tony

[bobhess]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

AN UPDATE FROM THE BRUNO FAMILY VIA FACEBOOK:
An update from the Bruno family:
Hey all, we wanted to give you an update on dad since it's been a while and we actually have something positive to report!
He is out of the ICU and medically stabilized for the most part. Hooray! He is at another facility which is devoted to helping take care of his trache and get him off the ventilator completely. Along with this he needs TONS of physical therapy. They have a PT team there too which is starting to implement their goals into his treatment plan.
We would be lying if we said we weren't nervous about this transition, but we're embracing the positive and the staff has been pretty amazing and incredibly supportive. About two days ago he was able to have his Trache "capped" which allows air to be pushed through to the vocal cords. For the first time since July 18th we heard him speak and were stunned.
He doesn't remember falling or much of the ICU stay. He recognizes us and the baby and has spoken about things from the early 90s (like my old childhood cat) which indicates his long term memory is there. He has still yet a long road to recovery.
Periodically throughout conversation and the day he gets confused, anxious, and agitated. We don't know if this is something that is permanent. Staff has been encouraging and positive throughout this process and has repeated what abington staff has told us that "nothing but time will tell". The brain is pretty incredible and he did suffer a big trauma to his frontal lobe. So we continue to pray for patience and his healing.
There is talk of possibly coming together during the month of October to host some kind of beef & beer/fundraiser. When/if details come together for that I'll be sure to let everyone know.
Last but not least we continue to be absolutely amazed at the outpour of support, well wishes, prayers and positive thoughts sent our way. We are completely humbled and can't thank everyone enough. You have all shined some light during such a dark time.
Hug your loved ones a little tighter tonight & make those memories count.
All our love,
The Bruno's

[Dom Minasi]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

Great news

[Mike Neer]

Wow, that is just amazing and really great news.

[ott...@hotmail.com]

> AN UPDATE FROM THE BRUNO FAMILY VIA FACEBOOK:
> An update from the Bruno family:
> Hey all, we wanted to give you an update on dad since it's been a while and we actually have something positive to report!
> He is out of the ICU and medically stabilized for the most part. Hooray! He is at another facility which is devoted to helping take care of his trache and get him off the ventilator completely. Along with this he needs TONS of physical therapy. They have a PT team there too which is starting to implement their goals into his treatment plan.
> We would be lying if we said we weren't nervous about this transition, but we're embracing the positive and the staff has been pretty amazing and incredibly supportive. About two days ago he was able to have his Trache "capped" which allows air to be pushed through to the vocal cords. For the first time since July 18th we heard him speak and were stunned.
> He doesn't remember falling or much of the ICU stay. He recognizes us and the baby and has spoken about things from the early 90s (like my old childhood cat) which indicates his long term memory is there. He has still yet a long road to recovery.
> Periodically throughout conversation and the day he gets confused, anxious, and agitated. We don't know if this is something that is permanent. Staff has been encouraging and positive throughout this process and has repeated what abington staff has told us that "nothing but time will tell". The brain is pretty incredible and he did suffer a big trauma to his frontal lobe. So we continue to pray for patience and his healing.
> There is talk of possibly coming together during the month of October to host some kind of beef & beer/fundraiser. When/if details come together for that I'll be sure to let everyone know.
> Last but not least we continue to be absolutely amazed at the outpour of support, well wishes, prayers and positive thoughts sent our way. We are completely humbled and can't thank everyone enough. You have all shined some light during such a dark time.
> Hug your loved ones a little tighter tonight & make those memories count.
> All our love,

> The Bruno Family

That's Great news, thanks.
Bg

[TD]

OK, it appears that writings such as this are being presented as quite accurate. No need for further announcements from me. I am wishing that his recovery continues exponentially and for the better.

TD

[Gerry]

Thanks for the relay, Bob!

[Tim McNamara]

On Thu, 31 Aug 2017 22:50:13 -0700 (PDT), TD <decap...@yahoo.com>
wrote:
>

> OK, here's the deal:
>
> Jimmy woke up cursing his dick off!!! Isn't that wild?? He is now OFF
> the ventilator...wow! No one knows about the extent of brain damage,
> but after several weeks, he is now talking a little and it's mostly
> cursing and asking for scotch and cigarettes. He does recognize his
> family. He doesn't recall at all what happened to him, but this is a
> start, at least.

Well, isn't that something? The brain is a funny damn thing. Hopefully
this is the start of getting better.

Jimmy may never remember the injury or most of the past time in the
hopital (what is it, ten weeks now?). What's important is regaining
mental functioning, motor functioning, strength, etc.

Fingers crossed, good vibes sent.

[bobhess]

AN UPDATE FROM JIMMY'S DAUGHTER VIA FACEBOOK JIMMY BRUNO GUITAR WORKSHOP

An update from Jimmy's daughter Susanna:
Hey all,
Just wanted to give everyone a heads up that dad is going to have access to his iPad 🤗
He's getting a little restless & wants something to fulfill his downtime. His agitation seems to be somewhat under control, but he still is frequently confused with bouts of paranoia. So just a fair warning if anyone receives anything from him that seems strange. Even with us, he sometimes is mistrusting and not himself. This is all part of the brain injury and the healing process.
Please continue to pray for him to fully come back to us all. And I hope I get to thank many of you personally on Oct. 16th!
Much love to you all

[TD]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 7:52:39 PM UTC-7, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

PERSONAL UPDATE:

For the first time since Jimmy has been hospitalized, we communicated via e-mail. His writing reveals an obvious state of delirium, yet its light years advanced from his former condition...no communication possible. I know that the MRI reveals considerable brain damage, but the areas damaged, or at least some of them, seem able to repair. I decided to reply in his 'language.'

I, for one, am far from being Ghandi-like, but when occurrences of this nature suddenly appear, it makes me think that no matter how strong we are or think we are, we are no more than fragile when it comes down to it. And even within our darkest thoughts that contain choice items that may include say 'revenge', something deep inside says throw the guy (or woman) a rope (at least). Yet, there *are* exceptions...

[James Seaberry]

Very nicely stated, and thanks for the promising news.

[Tim McNamara]

On Tue, 19 Sep 2017 07:05:14 -0700 (PDT), TD <decap...@yahoo.com>
wrote:

> On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 7:52:39 PM UTC-7, TD wrote:
>> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been
>> hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know
>> the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am
>> certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know
>> that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears
>> serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I
>> find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to
>> drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets.
>> His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much
>> for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang
>> and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>>
>> Have a good evening.
>>
>> Tony DeCaprio
>
> PERSONAL UPDATE:
>
> For the first time since Jimmy has been hospitalized, we communicated
> via e-mail. His writing reveals an obvious state of delirium, yet its
> light years advanced from his former condition...no communication
> possible. I know that the MRI reveals considerable brain damage, but
> the areas damaged, or at least some of them, seem able to repair. I
> decided to reply in his 'language.'

Glad he was able to reach out to you and vice versa. Having had
delirium myself earlier this year after my accident, it is no joke. The
confused things one believes and experiences in that state seem just as
real as anything else in your life. Afterwards (and for everyone around
you) it is "WTF?" but at the time it's your reality. But if he is
reaching out to people he knows, that is a good sign and I am so happy
to hear it.

> I, for one, am far from being Ghandi-like, but when occurrences of
> this nature suddenly appear, it makes me think that no matter how
> strong we are or think we are, we are no more than fragile when it
> comes down to it.

We are nothing other than fragile. Life can change profoundly in a
moment. Those who would deny help to others in the name of some
political philosophy would do well to ponder what would happen when the
shoes of misfortune are on their feet.

> And even within our darkest thoughts that contain choice items that
> may include say 'revenge', something deep inside says throw the guy
> (or woman) a rope (at least). Yet, there *are* exceptions...

Well, one hopes the better angels of our natures assert themselves in
those situations and we'd throw a rope to whomever needs it and help
them climb back up.

[jimmybruno]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

Check this out ... a video by me

https://youtu.be/5rhMJ5kY1ZQ

[jimmybruno]

new video

https://youtu.be/5rhMJ5kY1ZQ

[jimmybruno]

check this out

https://youtu.be/5rhMJ5kY1ZQ

[ott...@hotmail.com]

> Check this out ... a video by me
>
> https://youtu.be/5rhMJ5kY1ZQ

Welcome back, Jimmy!
It's great to see you again, Your voice is strong, and sense of humour is good, as usual.

Take care of yourself, and do whatever you can and like to!

Bg

[James Seaberry]

Wow!!!! It is gooooood to see him still going!!

[TD]

Love you Jimmy...you got nine lives, you bastard!!

Tony

[Tim McNamara]

On Tue, 26 Sep 2017 08:27:19 -0700 (PDT), TD <decap...@yahoo.com>
wrote:
>>

>> check this out
>>
>> https://youtu.be/5rhMJ5kY1ZQ

For some reason the "video is unavailable" at 11:20 Central time. :-(

> Love you Jimmy...you got nine lives, you bastard!!

Ditto that, glad you are bouncing back Jimmy!

[Dom Minasi]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

Welcome Back Jimmy...video not there

[jimmybruno]

love all you bastards. Take care of your talent...its a real drag without it

[alup...@gmail.com]

God Bless.

[jimmybruno]

A new video on youtube. It's titled "shit that bugs me"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Pjg9MTWkFU&feature=em-upload_owner

[Tim McNamara]

Cuttin' to the chase there, Jimmy! ;-) I don't know what your recovery
is going to be like next week or a year from now or ten years from now,
so I'm not going to tell you it's going to be all better. But I will
hope for the best outcome you can have and will hope that it surprises
you!

But the really important stuff- that you can hold your wife's hand, hug
your kids and your grandkids, bullshit with your friends like TD- enjoy
that, man. Enjoy the hell out of that!

[Lord Valve]

On Wednesday, September 27, 2017 at 3:35:39 PM UTC-6, jimmybruno wrote:
> A new video on youtube. It's titled "shit that bugs me"
>
> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Pjg9MTWkFU&feature=em-upload_owner

Gotcha. I understand. Be cool, bro - I wish
you all the best.

Lord Valve / Fat Willie
Organist

[Joey Goldstein]

Glad you're feeling a bit better, Jimmy!

[Joey Goldstein]

And very glad you're still with us!

[van]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

Glad to see you're doing better, Jimmy!

[Gerry]

On 2017-09-27 21:35:36 +0000, jimmybruno said:

> A new video on youtube. It's titled "shit that bugs me"
>
> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Pjg9MTWkFU&feature=em-upload_owner

So glad to find you're up and at 'em. Or up anyway!

I get your irritation at well wishers giving you what I'd call
"hopeful" encouragement. You say you won't get it back, and that you
won't walk again. I hope you're wrong, and have known others that had
strokes and *did* get back mobility and even fine motor skills. It
could happen to you.

Clearly you didn't lose your speech--that's a bonus!

Whether it irritates you or not--I hope you get it all back, every
microscopic part of it! With that as the goal, or something else
entirely--*get well soon*!

[Stringswinger]

That is very good advice. Thanks JB and stick around. Your story is not over yet.

[jimmybruno]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

There are new videos on my youtube channel

[Joe Finn]

What a relief to know you are still with us Jimmy! Godspeed. Get well fast. ....joe

[TD]

Great you are home and *thinking* music. Never know where this leads to and you still have a lot to offer. Does this statement "bug" you? If so, tell your friends. Oh, shut the damn TV off while video recording, please. And both know the music business sucks, but even that is an anachronism...there is no music business. It's just organized chaos and jive.

Your friend in debauchery,

Tony

[jimmybruno]

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017 at 10:52:39 PM UTC-4, TD wrote:
> My close friend and great guitarist, Jimmy Bruno, has been hospitalized and as far as I know in intensive care. I do not know the precise details, so I am not qualified to present them. I am certain that they will be made available as the days pass. All I know that he fell and may have hit his head. The situation appears serious. Nonetheless, I wish him a speedy and successful recovery. I find it very difficult to find the right words. If anyone cares to drop a line to him, kindly visit his website and/or Facebook outlets. His family closely monitors those venues. I don't drop by here much for obvious reasons, but at one time this was a reasonably cool hang and I thought I'd inform my old mates who may be tuning in.
>
> Have a good evening.
>
> Tony DeCaprio

you can still make me laugh

[clevelandjazz]

Good to hear from you brother! Miss ya!

[reilloc]

If the Las Vegas concert had been jazz the sniper would have shot
himself first.

LNC

[jimmybruno]

Some new videos here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39fq9ymKDKM&feature=em-upload_owner

[TD]

On Thursday, October 5, 2017 at 11:03:07 AM UTC-7, jimmybruno wrote:
> Some new videos here:
>
> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39fq9ymKDKM&feature=em-upload_owner

The fastest way to get back into playing is to use your own words as when you teach the learners...pick it up and begin anywhere and not just talk it. You **must** do this. Too many years to ignore. What do you expect to do, sit around and nag 'The Shoe' all day?

I recall Miles when he had bone cancer back in the 60's (he was born with sickle cell disease). He laid off his horn several years then. He came back. I recall him saying that he played for "many years" and knew it couldn't be just lost. He got back into playing slow but sure. In mid 70's was a second period when he didn't pick up the horn for three years due to more health complications. He managed to come back and then some, as we all know and, as is written in history.

You were out for "five minutes" by comparison. Just pick up your horn and zero in to Green Dolphin Street, OK? Just do it. Put negative ego aside("play where (you)want to be") and just do it. You've already proved yourself and have a pretty big fan-base for being your own man and never having sucked off a bigger name's scene. You got nothing to prove. Now it's like meditating...treat it like that and maybe that same guardian angel that managed to pull your ass out of the white rooms, might help you segue to a hipper place musically. Don't piss off the guardian angel.

[Tim McNamara]

On Thu, 5 Oct 2017 14:09:15 -0700 (PDT), TD <decap...@yahoo.com>
wrote:

Interesting you say that, Tony. When I was in the hospital for a couple
of weeks earlier this summer (including an induced coma, tracheostomy,
concussion, etc.), I found that when I got back to playing music things
had changed. I play better or perhaps more meaningfully would be the
best way to say it. Less chaff, more wheat. So I can confirm the
possibility you offer.

[Alex Beauroy]

Thanks!!! These are kind & true words to read!!!
Exactly what I needed to read as much as Jimmy Bruno!!!
Best Regards
@lex

[Alex Beauroy]

I had the same experience 15 years ago, after an aortic dissection,
surgery + long rehabilitation center ...... As soon as I could get the
guitar there, my convalescence start to speed up !!!
@lex