Bouwmeester returns to St. Louis after undergoing heart procedure

Jay Bouwmeester returned to St. Louis and is recovering after undergoing a procedure on his heart Friday.

"I would sincerely like to thank all of the trainers from both the St. Louis Blues and Anaheim Ducks, as well as of the first responders, the Anaheim medical staff, and the team at the UCI Medical Center for their quick actions on Feb. 11," Bouwmeester said Tuesday. "Our family has felt the support of the entire National Hockey League family and the city of St. Louis during this time. We have all been greatly comforted by your genuine concern.

"On Sunday evening, I returned to St. Louis and I am on the road to recovery. My wife and daughters are forever grateful for everyone's support and we will continue to have a positive outlook for our future."

The 36-year-old defenseman underwent successful implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) surgery after he suffered a cardiac episode on the bench during a game versus the Ducks last week.