A reminder to call 911

A reminder to call 911

Re “A teenager’s death, and a cry for justice” (Editorials, Nov. 18): There is much speculation about how we could try to prevent such tragedies, but what about some education on what should be done if it happens? Our families, educators and coaches should emphasize to kids that they should dial 911. An immediate response by an emergency medical team might have made a difference between life and death for Jaulon Clavo.

Beware prostate surgery

Re “Prostate cancer testing declines” (Insight, Nov. 18): Eleven years ago, at age 57, my PSA levels indicated a somewhat increased cancer risk and a biopsy confirmed the cancer. With my own desire to quickly eradicate the problem and with the encouragement of my physician, I opted to get a radical prostatectomy.

The operation was relatively painless and successful in eliminating the tumor. But within three months I realized I’d been rendered fully and permanently impotent. Moods of stark indifference soon gave way to deep depression.

My physician never cautioned me about the aftereffects beyond vague disclaimers read from a form, and shrugged off my subsequent complaints. I caution men confronted with this condition to think through their choice of treatment with great caution.

Early detection saves lives

As a prostate cancer survivor, I owe my life to early detection. The process began in my late 40s with a PSA blood test in my doctor’s office. I was pre-cancerous for about five years before I was diagnosed in 2004 with prostate cancer and had surgery.

Fortunately I caught it early enough that the tumor was still encapsulated, so I didn’t need chemotherapy. All of this was due to early detection.

What about lots in poor areas?

Re “What’s the city’s worst vacant lot?” (Op Image, Nov. 7): Jack Ohman’s search for vacant lots presents opportunities for citizens, businesspeople and politicians to better understand Sacramento’s economy. The Bee should ask if the vacant lot on Fourth and L is an indication that the arena subsidy is not delivering on promises of increased development in the central city.

And what about vacant lots in low-income neighborhoods?

In these communities, vacant lots are stark reminders that too many residents have little access to fresh food, banking and economic opportunities.

This story was originally published November 20, 2015 at 4:00 PM with the headline "A reminder to call 911."