Dear Editor,

A persistent ache or pain is nature’s emergency signal for something really…

By Don Klotz

Dear Editor,

A persistent ache or pain is nature’s emergency signal for something really dangerous. One of the saddest comments to be heard in the health industry is “Oh, if you have only come to us sooner. Now it’s too late.” Vivian, my wife, and I have many years of close association with the health industry. Too often, we heard that sad remark from the doctors. We know you are too busy. Maybe it will go away. You are afraid of what the doctor will say. Yes, tomorrow we’ll check on it. But tomorrow may be too late. Today, medical knowledge is so extensive that cures may be available if it’s not too late.

As a case in point, quite a few years ago, a pimple showed up on my skin just above the collar bone. I treated it casually at first. A bit of antiseptic and with time it would go away. But this one persisted and began to grow. Then the center broke open and began to drain. That had me concerned. A dermatologist friend came by. What did he think of this? A quick look and, “I want to see you tomorrow morning.” What, I wondered, was the hurry? A melanoma was one of the fastest growing and just plain savage of the skin cancers. That department went into action with a speed that made my head swim. A specialist was put in charge. X-rays, CAT-scans, blood tests and they had me checked from head to toe. In less than two days, surgery followed. The report to Vivian following surgery was, “It’s okay. We got all of it.” Our tension went from dark dread to total relief. A series of regular checks left nothing to chance. We agreed, Thank God for the department of surgery, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.

I am approaching my 94th birthday. We’ve dodged a bullet by taking action in time.

Sincerely,

Don Klotz