With over 140,000 likes and 151,000 followers of Facebook, John Schalcosky’s “Odd, Mysterious & Fascinating History of Pittsburgh” page has struck a nerve with Yinzers from all walks.
Through his extensive research and unlimited curiosity, Schalcosky found tales of forgotten Pittsburgh firsts, astounding true crime, sports facts that would make any lover of black and gold beam with pride and so much more.
But, for over a year, Schalcosky has been focused on something even more important than our history, his life and family.
Diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome,) a rare ailment that affects someone’s nerves), ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis, Schalcosky’s time was focused on pain management and preparing for a very serious surgery.
He told the media before he had the critical procedure last week, he was contemplating a future he may not have been a part of.
Through his extensive research and unlimited curiosity, Schalcosky found tales of forgotten Pittsburgh firsts, astounding true crime, sports facts that would make any lover of black and gold beam with pride and so much more.
But, for over a year, Schalcosky has been focused on something even more important than our history, his life and family.
Diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome,) a rare ailment that affects someone’s nerves), ulcerative colitis and diverticulitis, Schalcosky’s time was focused on pain management and preparing for a very serious surgery.
He told the media before he had the critical procedure last week, he was contemplating a future he may not have been a part of.
“Literally life & death situation,” said Schalcosky. “I had to come to terms that I might not pull through this last (surgery) I just had. I mentally prepared myself for the worst.”
Remarkably though, and (what some would say is an odd and fascinating development) Schalcosky is feeling like a completely different person, just days after the invasive procedure.
“It's crazy really,” said Schalcosky. “Like a total difference in health seemingly. I feel like a million bucks right now & I'm full of ideas & such.”
That doesn’t mean his body isn’t feeling the effects of the surgery.
“As of right now, I'm still in lots of surgery pain but internally, I feel that my surgeon (Dr. Nosik) truly did fix me up whereas it's a night & day difference from my last surgery.” Schalcosky had a similar, emergency surgery earlier in the year.
Calling it a miracle recovery, Schalcosky says he isn't surprised how things have turned out. His life has been full of coincidences, or maybe something more?
"There's so many weird & serendipitous parts to this story," said Schalcosky.
So, if you were missing your daily dose of weird Pittsburgh history and stories, Schalcosky plans on getting back to work soon.
“I can now devote 100% of my time on doing what I love to do & that's connect the world to each other through Pittsburgh history.”
But before Odd Pittsburgh once again becomes a place to learn about the Steel City, his wife Lisa posted a note of thanks to everyone who has supported them during John’s long struggle.
“Pittsburgh, you exemplify the true meaning of community,” wrote John’s wife Lisa. “We are deeply thankful for your continued support as John continues to recover. Your generosity has given us hope and comfort during this challenging time. We are forever grateful to be part of such a remarkable city and to have neighbors like you! Thank you, from the depths of our hearts, for being there when we needed it most. Your love and solidarity mean everything to us.”
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