Opinion | Letters
Letters: November 24, 2009
Letters to the editor from Gulf News readers
- Gulf News
- Published: 00:00 November 24, 2009
Getting tested saves lives
Last winter, my family travelled to our home country for a wedding. While we were there, my husband had a minor stomachache and visited a radiologist. What was expected to be a routine scan turned out to be a nightmare — the doctor detected a tumour in his gall bladder.
The gall bladder was removed through surgery and the tumour turned out to be malignant. But, his case was re-evaluated and we were told that the surgery was inadequate — a major portion of his liver and surrounding lymph nodes needed to be removed. At this point, the mental trauma for the entire family was unbearable and we decided to move him to Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai.
The facilities were world class and the doctors and staff were extremely dedicated. My husband then had to undergo a second surgery. However, tissues surrounding his organs tested negative for malignancy. Luckily, it was an early diagnosis. He is in good health now, but has to continue with follow-ups twice a year. The moral of this story? Each one of us is susceptible to disease. It's extremely important to have regular checkups, to maintain a healthy lifestyle and not panic in the face of an emergency.
From Ms S. Asim
Dubai
Change required for green world
It's time for the world to unite because climate change is a problem no country can tackle alone ("Balancing climate and development needs", Gulf News, November 21). World leaders' attendance at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) forum shows what is wrong with the new world. It served as the best opportunity to agree upon the need for a reduction in greenhouse gases. However, this was not achieved. With the exception of some countries, speeches about climate change are not followed by actions. The problem is that such countries gain economic advantage from the destruction of the planet. A new world order, with binding power, is needed as soon as possible.
From Ms Michel Gourd
Quebec, Canada
Extending driving lessons
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is making an effort to improve road conditions and drivers' efficiency. But there doesn't seem to be much change when it comes to accident rates. In my opinion, there should be a drastic alteration in the performance of driving schools. The time assigned to a driving lesson is 30 minutes. But a student does not get 30 minutes to practice. Due to the heavy traffic, by the time the student reaches the main road, the allotted time for the lesson is almost over. If the time was increased to one hour, it would improve driving conditions. Since proper training is not provided, trainees are forced to attend more classes. Due to the lack of proper experience on the road, they are bound to make more mistakes that result in accidents.
From Mr Oommen M.
Dubai
Punishing irresponsible drivers
I would like to draw public attention towards careless driving by motorists in the UAE. I am a student and have noticed several times that some people smoke while driving and throw out cigarette butts from their car windows. Others talk on their mobile phones, which is extremely dangerous, as the driver would not be able to control the car if there is an emergency. I request the authorities to take stern action against these motorists and fine them heavily so they will not repeat the offence.
From Mr Nikhil Tharakeshwar
Sharjah
Requesting all motorists
I want to request all motorists on the road to please use their car's indicators when changing lanes or before taking a turn. Secondly, please stay in your own lane. If we all abide by the rules, it would ensure our safety.
From Mr Nasser Al Mulk
UAE
Ideal author
My love for reading was fuelled by the books of Enid Blyton. In a small town called Madurai, in India, I grew up on a strong diet of The Secret Seven and The Famous Five. We used to imitate the immortal characters created by her. Years later, my daughter was introduced to the fascinating world of books.
Thanks to Enid Blyton, books have now become her main source of ‘edutainment'. I don't think Blyton ever promoted racial stereotypes. Her books brought a smile to many children's faces, encouraged them to dream and be more adventurous and happy. What more do you need from a children's author?
From Mr C. Sunil Roy
Dubai
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