As I prepare to head out into the rain to cover a football playoff game at Granite Bay High tonight, my mind wanders back to last Friday night and to referee Joel Miller.

The last time I was on that field, the quick action of the Granite Bay medical staff saved Miller's life after he suffered a heart attack while officiating the game between Granite Bay and Woodcreek.

I spoke to Miller's wife, Tavia, this afternoon, and I am happy to report that all is well in his recovery. Miller was released from Mercy General Hospital Wednesday and returned home, and according to Tavia he is doing well today.

"We even went out for a little walk with the dog," Tavia said. "There are still some little things that he can't do, like driving (his pacemaker device will keep him from driving for four to five weeks), but he is doing remarkably well considering he was dead on that field."

Until the weather became an issue, Tavia had pondered taking Miller out to the field tonight for a brief visit with the Grizzly players and staff.

"We wanted to let the boys know that we are thinking of them," Tavia said.

The Millers are hoping for the best possible result for the Grizzlies tonight and in the postseason, and are especially thankful for the support they have received from the Granite Bay community.

"There aren't enough words to express how grateful I am," Tavia said. "Because of the quick action of those doctors, they saved his life that night. I can't tell you how much we appreciate the support of the team and the fans who stayed to cheer him and wish him well as he was taken off the field. If I could hug every single one of them, I would."

Tavia Miller said that Dr. Kevin Hansen came to see Joel a number of times while he was in the hospital to track his progress, and the family appreciates the outpouring of love and support from the community.