Having seen hundreds of heart specials on the Today Show over the years, I knew these were dire warning signs, but I still wondered if it was really happening, and sat on it for a bit.

Thankfully, I made the right choice and went to the hospital. Initially, the tests didn't show anything definite.

Around 9 p.m., one of the doctors came by and told me I was suffering a heart attack. Ninety minutes later, the repairs were done, the blockages were removed, and two stents were put in.

The doctors and nurses at Unity Hospital just saved my life.

I just celebrated my 20th anniversary at News10NBC, and with my new lease on life, I should be able to do 20 more but to achieve that, I will need some time off to recuperate.

I will be off the air until at least the 22nd of October. I will meet with the cardiologist that day and see what he says about getting back to work and doing what I love — forecasting the weather for all of you wonderful viewers.

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If you’d like to send your well wishes to Rich, send him a message on Facebook.