Podolak surgery goes smoothly

Iowa football radio analyst Ed Podolak had surgery Monday for a bone graft related to the February car accident that broke both of his legs and left him with several other injuries, according to his Facebook page.

Podolak's daughter, Laura, posted the following about 3:30 p.m. Monday:

"Dad is out of surgery. Doctors say everything went well. When I get a chance to talk more with dad, I'll be sure to update everyone. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. Go dad... and GO HAWKS!!!"

Podolak attended Iowa's scrimmage at Kinnick Stadium last Saturday. He is using a walker to get around, but he did negotiate the long flight of stairs from street level to the field without it.

The car that hit Podolak on Feb. 20 in Scottsdale, Ariz., was going 40 mph. His lower legs had been shattered and ripped open. There were rib injuries and a head injury.

After numerous surgeries, skin grafts and muscle grafts, Podolak told KCRG's John Campbell that he feels lucky to be alive. This spring, he rehabbed with Paul Pursley at University of Iowa Sports Medicine in Iowa City.

Podolak, 63, will be in the Iowa radio booth this fall for his 30th season.