Topic: Sternum

Brennan and Mimi Dvorak describe the "John Dvorak treatment" given to anyone new entering the family circle, which involved rigorous interrogation over wine and cognac. Dvorak used these dinners to vet his children's partners, often requiring at least two glasses of wine before opening up. Brennan also mentions serving as Dvorak's "gopher" and driver during the broadcaster's recent recovery from a cracked sternum.

Following heart surgery, patients must adhere to strict mobility limits for two months to allow the stapled sternum to heal. John C. Dvorak describes using a "rolly walker" with handbrakes and a seat to prevent falls, which would require re-breaking the chest bone. He shares an anecdote from a fellow bypass patient about the long-term recovery process and the "first rule" of not showing surgical scars in public.