Terri Hemmert (Photo: Don Pointer)
WXRT FM 93.1 is inviting listeners to help cheer up Terri Hemmert while the Chicago radio treasure is off the air and out of commission recovering from knee surgery.
The CBS Radio album adult alternative station has opened a “Get Well Soon Terri Hemmert!” page on its website with a form for fans to submit messages to her.
The Radio Hall of Famer and 40-year veteran of ’XRT said she will be away from her Monday-through-Friday midday show for “several weeks.” Frank E. Lee is expected to fill in during the interim. Hemmert’s recorded “Breakfast with the Beatles” show Sunday mornings will be reduced to one hour.
Hemmert, 66, underwent surgery Thursday to replace her right knee. Here’s the message to fans she posted on Facebook Wednesday:
"When I was 4 years old doing my first D.J. gig, I was in no pain. Since having Rheumatic Fever at 13, my knees have been a problem. Since I lived through more than one polar vortex this year, the problem has gone from bad to worse. Tomorrow I go in for knee replacement surgery for my right knee. This will involve weeks of boot-camp-like physical therapy and rest. I will have to convalesce at my home for several weeks.
"I wanted you to know so you wouldn't panic and think I retired or something unthinkable like that. No way. I will not be on my midday show for several weeks, and Breakfast With The Beatles will have to be a Doctor's Orders one hour show for awhile (except for Ringo's birthday special July 6th…special dispensation for 2 hours!). The doctors orders start time is 9 AM Sundays. Enjoy the extra hour of sleep for awhile.
"I will be back, better than ever. I will not miss the bone on bone pain. I will miss the Pride Parade, our summer interns, Ringo and Paul's concerts, too many rock festivals to count, and I will miss you and the privilege of playing great music for you every day. I am very positive and optimistic about this. My surgeon goes to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival every year. That speak volumes to me, his grateful patient.
"My friends have been unbelievably kind in helping me prep for this and will be there to feed and encourage me for the next few weeks. I've already had two months of physical therapy, and I will work like crazy to get through this.
"All I ask of you is your patience, prayers, good thoughts, and encouragement. You can reach me here. As soon as I get out of the drug induced stupor I will be checking Facebook and giving you updates. Thanks. I'll miss you and my marvelous coworkers. But I'll be back. They can't keep a kid from Piqua, Ohio down."