Q: My father is slated to have robotic surgery to fix a leaky mitral valve in his heart. They say it’s going to be minimally invasive. What does that mean? And is it really safe to have a robot poking around inside a person’s heart? -- Gerry F., Franklin, Tennessee
Dear Dr. Roach: I was wondering if you could explain why some vaccinations seem to completely protect against a disease, while others do not. For example, smallpox was completely eradicated by vaccination, and the hepatitis B vaccine is good for life and 98% to 100% effective, according to the World Health Organization. Yet we need to have the flu vaccine each year. I understand that is partly due to different strains of flu that come through, and of course we have the coronavirus vaccine, which ... I hope you can see where this question is going. I think an understanding of the vaccines we have and how they work would be extremely beneficial to all. -- M.S.
Dear Readers: Every year I step away from my column briefly to work on other creative projects. (Anyone interested in my personal essays and photographs can subscribe to my free newsletter: amydickinson.substack.com).
MCPHERSON – The McPherson baseball team in 2021 reached new heights as they shattered the record book for wins in a season with 18 to just four losses before ending the season in the state regional championship game with a one-run, 7-6 loss to Mulvane.
MCPHERSON – Losing three of the four players that finished first and tenth at state in doubles last season could cripple many tennis teams, but not he McPherson boys as they look to reload from a lengthy list of prospects.
Something about Saint Peter’s doesn’t add up. Put aside for the moment how the Peacocks keep winning games.
MCPHERSON – One overtime goal in overtime kept the 2021 McPherson girls soccer team from playing for a state championship and that is motivating a hunger for the 2022 team to make that final step this spring.
MCPHERSON – According to the coaches, the McPherson high school track/field team has nearly 100 athletes out as spring practices began, including 20 who helped both the boys and girls teams finish second in the league in 2021.
MCPHERSON – The McPherson girls swim program has had continued success for eight years and the 2022 season appears to be more of the same with returning experience and seasoned newcomers. Lady Bullpup head coach Abby Bradstreet has led the team to appearances at state in all eight seasons she has been at the helm.
MCPHERSON – After a fifth-place finish at the state tournament in 2021, the McPherson High School boys golf team only loses one to graduation, giving the Bullpups hope for another successful run at the state tournament in 2022.