Health Care
As a society, we have to make a decision
Regarding the recent suspension of the Grady contract and the dialysis clinic, you are correct concerning the impact on the emergency department. What you should note, however, is the human cost.
Waiting until emergency dialysis is necessary is not the way to treat kidney failure. This treatment only will occur when the patient is so sick that emergency dialysis is required.
As a physician, my experience has shown that this method of treatment is essentially a death sentence. Waiting for emergency treatment rarely results in patients living more than one year, as the kidney failure will inevitably result in elevated potassium (that the patient will not be aware of) — causing sudden death from cardiac arrest.
As a society, we must make a decision. Do we spend the money to treat illegal immigrants three times a week, or tell them that they will not live longer than one year if they stay in the U.S.?
Dr. Kent Cohen, Sandy Springs
National Anthem
Fans’ lack of respect embarrassing at games
I am an Atlanta Dream founding fan. At the past two home games, flags have been presented while the national anthem was sung.
I was mortified that the majority of the people didn’t do what they were supposed to do: stand up, be quiet, remove your hat, and look at the flag with your hand over your heart. I couldn’t believe the number of people who did nothing! I believe that when the national anthem is sung only, there is only a need to stand and be quiet.
I feel strongly that we need to start now to show respect. What are we teaching the youngsters? What kind of example are we setting for anyone?
Emilie Stone, Calhoun
Barack Obama
Leaders must unite for the good of us all
The overtly declared war on the president with the intention to bring him down is highly disturbing. The president is the face of the nation, and the intention to make him fail will bring the country down — not just the man.
While half of us felt that way about President George W. Bush, I don’t remember it becoming a publicly declared intention — because we certainly wanted the country to prosper, regardless of who was in charge. President Barack Obama listens; asks for input; and most of all, he compromises. I expect my elected representatives to legislate sensibly for all of us — not just the loudest minority. Government works on compromise. That doesn’t always please everyone, but it is the way to govern, and have a prosperous country.
I’m asking my Georgia elected officials to change their rhetoric to something that will encourage coming together for the good of all their constituents and the country. Patricia A. Evans, Mountain Park
Jobs
Politicians should look to farmers for example
I wish politicians would stop talking about creating jobs. They don’t create jobs any more than farmers create food.
Farmers put seeds into an environment of soil and moisture — where they will germinate, grow into a plant and in time, produce food. Why can’t politicians learn from farmers and create an environment that will produce jobs?
Charles Green, Cumming
