Monday, November 9, 1998

'Hope' out of line

I am writing in reference to an Oct. 21 episode of the CBS program, "Chicago Hope," called "The Breast and the Brightest." The program depicted an extraordinarily rare aspect of breastfeeding, and breastfeeding was portrayed negatively throughout the program.

I'd like to remind your readers that "Chicago Hope" is purely "entertainment," which has license to take any liberties in an effort to draw an audience for its advertisers.

I believe that most young mothers and fathers thinking of starting a family know the difference between entertainment and public health. The fact is that based upon hundreds of scientific studies done in research universities throughout the world, breastfeeding is the far superior as well as the natural way to feed an infant. Far more babies suffer negative health effects from infant formula than from breastfeeding. Breastfed babies have many fewer intestinal and respiratory infections, fewer allergies and better school performance. Women who breastfeed enjoy a number of short- and long-term health benefits as well.

In the Oct. 21 TV program, the breastfeeding mother had no breastfeeding support. In reality, a wealth of breastfeeding support and expertise is available to every new mother. Persons interested in the facts or needing advice about breastfeeding should contact their physician, call our breastfeeding experts at 1-800-514-MOMS or visit our breastfeeding page on our Web site at www.tdh.state.tx.us/

lactate/bfl.htm.

WILLIAM ARCHER

Commissioner, Texas Department of Health

Worthy donation

In the September issue of The Rotarian, there was a notice about a million dollar challenge issued to Rotary Clubs to fight hunger. Philanthropist Alan Feinstein pledged that if Rotary Clubs donated $1 million to 501(c)(3) charities that provide food for needy people, he will give Rotary an additional $1 million to distribute.

Please know that we are grateful for the generous gift made by an anonymous donor to Meals on Wheels Plus Inc. through the Abilene Reporter-News. That gift of $100 will be used to help provide hot meals at noon for approximately 590 homebound elderly and disabled persons in Abilene. The meals are delivered to individuals in their homes by a wonderful team of volunteers.

We deeply appreciate the one who gave this contribution for helping drive away hunger right here in our own community. We also appreciate the Reporter-News for passing it on to the Rotary Club of Southwest Abilene, who included it as part of a $2,200 donation made to Meals on Wheels as a response to Mr. Feinstein's match challenge. Thanks so much.

BETTY BLAZIER-BRADLEY

Executive Director

Meals on Wheels