TMI? – Can you really have too much information? (August 2015 KOL)
Over the past three decades, I have written many articles to the congregation in this space, but never on this subject. Since part of my responsibility as your rabbi and a Jew is to save lives, it seems appropriate to address the importance of your health to me, personally, now.
I put off my annual physical until Rabbi Rappaport arrived. In fact, my doctor’s office actually sent me a reminder letter, because without an assistant rabbi, taking the time to do blood work, a chest X-ray, and the other things involved in an annual visit to the doctor’s office seemed like a luxury of time that I couldn’t afford. I am happy to report that my doctor said I am healthier than ever and that all of my blood work was, in her words, “perfect!” And immediately after I return from my vacation, as you are reading this article, I will be preparing for my colonoscopy as a conscientious “over-50-year-old.” I was due this spring, but again, didn’t have the time. Things were too busy around here. But, I shouldn’t have waited. Too many of us wait. We put ourselves on hold. We make excuses. Some of us are lucky enough to have good results, even if we made a poor choice, but others are not so lucky.
At this point, if you are still reading, you are saying, “TMI, Rabbi. I don’t really need to know this stuff!” Very true. But, I am sharing this with you to make an important point. We have many members who are conscientious. More so than I have been. They don’t put off their annual check-ups and they have stayed on top of their health, including repairing much needed orthopedic and other issues. But, we have others who find out too late that something is wrong, or who refuse to get screened for colon and other cancers. I know how many lives have been saved in our little community by early detection. I know how many people wish they would have been more diligent in keeping up on their health. With healthcare costs and insurance what it is, some people have been forced to deny themselves care or coverage, and that, too, I beg you not to do.
You matter to me and your health is my priority. As the person who is tasked with officiating at your funeral, I want you to live a long and healthy life – “to 120 years!” as the Jewish blessing goes, because if that was good enough for Moses, then it is good enough for you. I will be there for you whatever the future holds, but having the “if only I had…” conversation is not what I wish for you.
Before the summer is over, make sure you have adequate health care. Make that appointment with your physician, dentist, or other specialist. Listen to the person who loves you who says that you NEED to go to a doctor because they see symptoms you may not, or because you are not hearing anything that is going on. Get a colonoscopy if you are in that age bracket (not old…just older). Get health care if you are in your 20’s or 30’s and think you don’t need it right now. I have watched too many people suffer. I have seen catastrophes come to young and old.
Some of you have put off getting mental health evaluations and assistance for yourself or loved ones because of cost, stigma, fear, and a history of procrastinating on these kinds of issues. Good mental health and care is as important as good physical health and care. Again, if someone you love is encouraging you to get help, please don’t delay any longer. If you are suffering in silence, let your problems see the light of day in the care of a professional. This is a great time, before the High Holy Days, to put your well-being first. As Jews, we suffer a higher incidence of depression, anxiety, and certain other conditions. There is more available than ever to assist every person in leading a more fulfilling and happier life.
Life is unpredictable. God does not promise us an easy life. Diagnoses come every day and the randomness of “who shall live and who shall die” is out of our hands. And we know that God does not micro-manage our lives or make our appointments for us. As modern Jews, we recognize that science and medicine have advances and miracles every day. Eating right and exercise is very important. That’s another thing you can commit to now, before we sit in services at Rosh Hashanah and you make resolutions to lead a healthier life. We are not cave men and women. We are 21st century modern Jews living in our nation’s capital with some of the best medical professionals in the world. The time to make those appointments is NOW.
The Jewish value pikuach nefesh teaches us that to save one life is as if you have saved the entire world. Save your life or the life of someone you love. I would like us to share many wonderful years together. TMI? No, sir or madam! You can never have too much information. Don’t put off until next season what you can take care of this summer. L’Chaim!