Thanks Delegate Austin for proposing health care bill for men
Editor:
For many men and their families in the United States, prostate cancer looms large. The American Cancer Society estimates that well over a quarter-million American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2022 alone. It is also one of the most deadly– prostate cancer is the second highest cause of cancer-related death in men.
For Virginians, the American Cancer Society estimates over 7,000 new cases of prostate cancer in Virginia and nearly 1,000 men are expected to die from the disease this year, making it one of the most common and deadliest types of cancer in the state.
But there is hope. As with other cancers, prostate cancer is almost always 100% survivable if caught early, with the survival rate plunging the later it is detected. That is why early detection and screening is so vital, especially for high-risk groups such as African-Americans, veterans, and people with a family history of prostate cancer. However, studies show that even a small financial cost for cancer screenings can be a barrier for some to getting screened.
As of now, such financial costs exist for too many Virginian men. This has to change, which is why I am so grateful for House Bill 477, brought forth by Delegate Terry Austin. HB477 would ensure that all health insurance plans in the state fully cover the cost of prostate cancer screenings for vulnerable men.
On behalf of the thousands of Virginian men and their families who have been affected by prostate cancer, I am deeply appreciative of Delegate Austin’s leadership on this issue. If HB477 can be passed during this session, it will undoubtedly lead to countless Virginian lives being saved.
Ali Manson
Alexandria
Parents should have choice on children wearing masks
Editor:
Is your paper now Fake News? When I saw your headline 26 January (“School Board votes to abide by Executive Order 2”) I thought the board must have had a change of heart on their religious devotion to masks. Instead, as I read the article it became apparent that the headline was exactly opposite what really happened.
As we know, the School Board voted to IGNORE the governor’s order, pending the outcome of the court case. When the last governor issued tyrannical orders, this goard was happy to abide by them. Now, when the new governor tries to free the children from these inhumane conditions, the board will drag their heels until they are forced to comply.
There are plenty of legal opinions surrounding this, but know that the board has a choice — they can do what’s right and relieve the kids from the torture of masks or they can continue sacrificing the kids on the altar of Covidstan.
No place on earth has seen a decrease in virus transmission attributable to mask mandates or use. I think Botetourt will not beat this trend. Those that believe in masks are welcome to wear them. If you’re worried that someone else is breathing free, wear two. But parents should have a choice whether to subject their kids to them. The School Board is wrong. Let them know that we know.
Rich Donnelly
Daleville
