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Graduation Rates ~ IA vs. NV

My hometown of IOWA FALLS, IA announced a 2009 graduation rate of 93.88 percent. Clark County ~ Las Vegas ~ has a rate slightly over 50 percent. There is work to be done at a time when cuts are being made. We need YOUR thoughts, Las Vegans ~ what can we do?

I realize there are differences between IA and NV but we all have young minds to mold and a future that depends on our youth.

Are there more parents who love and care for there children in IA ~ I don’t think so.
Are children brighter in IA ~ I don’t think so.
Are there better teachers in IA ~ I don’t think so.
Are there higher educational expectations in IA ~ maybe.
Are there fewer distractions in IA ~ for sure.

My children are grown, but I continue to share an interest in the quality of young people we educate throughout our country and particularily in my city of Las Vegas, NV. Money, thrown at all aspects of education is not the entire solution, although it helps. Quality education comes from the effort of the entire community to take the time and energy to raise our young people in all aspects of their lives.

Step up when you can.
Find a place to volunteer.
Listen.
Do something good today.

Cushing’s Disease ~ Pituitary Surgery

Endonasal Approach to Pituitary Surgery

My surgeon, Dr. Adam Mamelak, from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center wrote a great article for their recent newsletter about pituitary surgery. He discusses transphenoidal pituitary surgery and the two most commonly used approaches: sublabial and endonasal. I underwent the endonasal approach for my two surgeries nearly three years ago. I did not experience any pain with this approach. (I understand that the sublabial approach can be very painful and it is often necessary to pack the nose for up to three days.) Lesson here is to be sure that your pituitary surgeon is very skillful and familiar with both approaches before you decide what is best for YOU.
Cushing’s disease occurs in about 1-2 people per million! However, it is extremely common in dogs.