Just three weeks after suffering a heart attack and undergoing quadruple bypass surgery, State Representative Bill Jenkin was back at work in Olympia Monday.

The Prosser Republican was met with a standing ovation by fellow lawmakers in the Washington State House of Representatives Monday as he stood to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers.

“I didn’t know that I had too many friends," Jenkin said, "because I really don’t go out and hang out with people too much, but I found a friend in every one of you.”

Jenkin underwent quadruple bypass heart surgery at Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland after suffering a heart attack January 25th.

 surprised everyone with his rapid recovery.

  Known for enjoying cigars, The 16th District Republican said the heart attack was a “life changing event,” that has made him realize it's time to give up a few things.

 “You have to eat bland food and that type of thing, but I would much rather do that than to not share the experiences that we share in this house.”

Other GOP lawmakers took over Jenkin's committee duties while he was recovering, but he has now been reassigned to those committees.

More From 610 KONA