A couple of amazing bioethics stories caught my attention this Memorial Day weekend — a holiday in which we celebrate and honor the sacrifice of incredibly brave men and women who fought across Europe and the Pacific for our freedom and liberty. 

Now there are those fighting for freedom and liberty for animals and even plants. Count this blog in the “you-won’t-believe-this” category.

• Bible guides some in fitness routines
• Premature babies ‘need cuddles’
• Just Like Skin, Eyes Can ‘Burn’ in Strong Sun
• Dermatologists Make a Case Against Indoor Tanning

Here are Dr. Walt’s comments on today’s health headlines

Bible guides some in fitness routines

It wasn’t until after his death, in 2003, that my brothers and I learned of our father’s bravery and courage in World War II.

Philip B. “Larry” Larimore, Jr., fought in Italy, France, and Germany, before losing his leg – and almost his life.

Awarded three Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars, two Silver Stars, and the Distinguished Service Cross, he ended his service as the Executive Officer for the Honor Garrison at Arlington Cemetery and Ft. Myers.

I remember the admiration my dad had for President Ronald Reagan and how much my dad appreciated a speech the President delivered at Pointe du Hoc, France, where U.S. Rangers fought an incredible battle to reclaim Europe from the evil of fascism.

This is the fifth part in a series excerpted from my book God’s Design for the Highly Healthy Teen.

CONNECTING WITH FRIENDS … AND MORE FRIENDS

Besides connectedness with parents, highly healthy teens need connectedness with highly healthy friends, activities, and faith communities. As teens gain independence and go out on their own, friendships become more important than ever.

Last week I posted a report from my friend, Chris Place, M.D., from the Hope Medical Clinic is Macao, China, about a team he was leading in the earthquake ravaged area of Chendu, China.

Here are Chris’ sobering diary entries of his experiences there.