I met with the nationally-acclaimed Dr. Steven Zeitels in Boston on Sunday. He did an analysis and scope of my throat and gave me clearance to return to broadcasting and public speaking. Dr. Zeitels was pleased with the progress of my vocal cords.

Previously, during surgery almost four weeks ago, he removed ulcerated lesions that were non-cancerous.

I will see him periodically in the future for further evaluations to ensure no additional issues occur.

I was in tears when he asked me to speak my first words since the surgery. Believe me, it was very difficult to go three and a half weeks without speaking! When he had me count to 10, I was relieved.

I am looking forward to coming back and calling games. I am scheduled to return to the Mike and Mike radio show on February 4 and then I will cover the Duke-North Carolina game on February 6.

My friends, I have been so overwhelmed by the outpouring of support. I can't thank the fans, the basketball community and all the people at ESPN enough for all the love I received. I could open up a flower or gift basket boutique now!

ESPN president George Bodenheimer, John Skipper, Norby Williamson, Dan Steir, Jed Drake and everyone in Bristol, CT has my heartfelt thanks.

For the record, I am so proud baby! That's right, I kept my mouth shut for almost four weeks. Now my wife Lorraine is off-duty from her role transcribing my handwriting. I will stop writing notes on the dry erase board now!

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in December 1979. Send him a question for possible use on ESPNEWS.