When Butler County voters go to the polls on November 8, they’ll be faced with many decisions that will shape the future of not just our country, but our local communities as well. On the national level, control of Congress is at stake.
Dear Amy: Thirty years ago, I began a romantic relationship with “Bonnie.” We were both married. The relationship lasted for 16 years and produced a child (“W”).
Dear Amy: I live with my fiance and our cat, and I’m really happy. We are getting married at Disneyland next year! I have everything I’ve ever wanted for my dream wedding, including riding in Cinderella’s crystal coach.
Q: I am 43, and I keep hearing these ads for brain boosters. Should I take them? -- Sara T., Memphis, Tennessee A: Brain health depends on the health of your whole body.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I’m 72, and I have had arthritis for three years: two years in both knees, one year in my right hip and the base of my spine. I am 5’3” and weigh 221 pounds, with a body mass index (BMI) of 39. I lost 23 pounds from January to June.
Dear Amy: Every year, I spend time carefully curating a list of Christmas wishes for me, my husband, and our children. I know what we like and need.
Q: What’s going on with COVID-19 these days? Half of the news sounds good, half bad. -- Gene W., Annapolis, Maryland A: The past two years have been a tutorial in how science evolves and how “doing the best we can, until we learn more” can cause a lot of confusion. Fortunately, we know a whole lot more now about COVID-19 than we did even a year ago.
DEAR DR. ROACH: In my 40s, I developed lumps in the palm of my hands. I was diagnosed with Dupuytren’s contracture and underwent hand surgery to correct the condition. I also noticed similar lumps in the arches of my feet, which cause no pain, so I’ve not sought treatment for my feet.
DEAR DR. ROACH: I recently had a surgery, and prior to the surgery, my doctor ordered some routine blood tests. My aPTT level was high, but the PT level was normal. The doctor said it was probably nothing, and the surgery went fine. But, when I went back for my annual checkup, he rechecked it, and it’s still high. Do I need to worry? -- B.W.
Dear Amy: I’m a middle- aged man. My sister who lives out of state and stays in touch with hometown friends connected me with one of her friends “Susan,” who needed help with a minor home repair.