A Nebraska state lawmaker who suffered a mild heart attack has returned to the Legislature.

Sen. Ken Haar of Malcolm thanked his colleagues for their calls, prayers and letters during a brief floor speech on Tuesday. The well-known environmental advocate struck a humorous tone, noting that he suffered the heart attack while cutting down trees on Arbor Day.

Haar, a Democrat, joked about seeing a bright light, meeting his late father and promising to change parties if he could return to work.

Haar says he received a handful of “miracle drugs” to help treat his condition, but didn’t undergo surgery. He added that he spent less than 24 hours in the hospital, and received a $22,000 medical bill.

Haar was first elected to the Nebraska Legislature in 2008.