The world-renowned symbol of Island joie de vivre said he is exploring possible further medical treatments, in hope that more stable health would restore his spirit as well as his heart.

"Main thing now is to get some rest," said the 76-year-old singer. "I'm (feeling) very good."

His daughter Hoku was at his bedside today.

Ho said he has had some moments of anxiety related to his heart condition, despite undergoing a stem cell procedure last November in Thailand to strengthen his heart muscle.

Speaking to The Advertiser by phone from his hospital bed, Ho said he is in consultation with doctors for additional treatment, and would consider additional stem cell therapy, which would require that he again leave the United States for a procedure that has not been approved in this country.

However, Ho's longtime associate, Haumea Hebenstreit, said Ho will work with doctors to seek a more comfortable setting for his Pacemaker first.

"He's had some episodes (with his Pacemaker), so we're also looking for the right setting," Hebenstreit said.

Ho said he is still feeling stronger than he was before he had stem-cell treatment in Thailand.

"I'm improved, like I'm supposed to," he said. "I may be up to 40 percent, but I want to be at 100 percent. ... 40 (percent) is not good enough for me."

He hopes to be released from the hospital no later than tomorrow. There was no indication when Ho would resume his Sunday and Thursday shows at the Ohana Waikiki Beachcomber hotel.

On the Web: www.donho.com