Ray optimistically plans to return to his store next week

As we mentioned last week, Ray Alvarez, the 82-year-old proprietor of Ray's Candy Store at 113 Avenue A, had heart valve replacement surgery.

He hopes to return home to recuperate later this week. By all accounts, friends who have visited Ray say that he is doing quite well all things considered.

DNAinfo's Lisha Arino spoke with Ray for a story today.

“Everything is okay. I feel good,” he said on the phone Monday, before adding optimistically, “I’m going to be in my store next week.”