Dr. B's Blog  June 13^th, 2008

                             Tim Russert Died Today.

    The sudden, unexpected death of news show host Tim Russert was a shock to his family and friends, as well as to his colleagues and the viewing public.

    This was a man who was respected and admired not only by those who called him friend and loved one, but also by his professional peers and competitors.

    I should hope that, when my time comes, I would be considered anywhere near as highly for my life and be remembered as fondly.

    "Meet The Press" was a well-respected show, and guests shared not only an excitement about being invited to the program, but a certain trepidation, because Tim Russert was noted for asking tough, honest questions, a feature which is not true of all news shows.  Tim Russert was, in this regard, a true journalist, asking uncomfortable but necessary questions, seeking the truth.

    Many people wonder what killed this icon of TV journalism.  Some worry that they could die suddenly in a similar manner.  It is not yet clear why Mr. Russert died but in most cases, at this age, a sudden death is due to a cardiac problem.  Time will no doubt enlighten us as to the true cause of death.

    The truth is that any of us could die suddenly, without any warning. 

    We are all going to die.  If I had to choose a way to go, I would like to leave suddenly, without suffering, much like Mr. Russert did. 

    But I understand that some people do not want such a fate.  Many folks want to live to old age.

    And that's OK, as long as you plan to be active and intellectually healthy until you eventually die.

    It is interesting that the Larry King show on TV tonight, a program honoring Tim Russert, was interspersed with drug ads, pills to cure your ills, whatever they may be. 

    Pills are not the answer to health problems.  Good nutrition and exercise are the answer to most medical problems in western society.

   If you want to honor Tim Russert and the many who die suddenly at a relatively young age, consider taking care of yourself by living a healthy lifestyle.

Marlene Buckler, MD, FACEP   www.StayOutOfMyER.com

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