While many in the northern tier of states are shoveling out from under lots of snow and enduring bone-chilling temperatures, here in the Four States (SE Kansas, SW Missouri, NE Oklahoma and NW Arkansas) we are just cold. It has been so cold the last couple of days that I had to move the Harley to the front of the garage to... read more »

It was 1983.  I was attending my first full semester at Brigham Young University when it hit me!  I had finally figured out what I was going to do when I grew up.  The fact that I was 21-and-a-half years old (back then the 1/2 was important--now at 4o-something the 1/2's are more troubling) did not seem like a bad time to... read more »

Not everyone experiences symptoms of prostate cancer. Many times, signs of prostate cancer are first detected by a doctor during a routine check-up. Many times, men will experience changes in urinary or sexual function that might indicate the presence of prostate cancer. These symptoms include: • A need to urinate frequently, especially at night • Difficulty starting urination or holding... read more »

Of all the non-skin cancers in America, Prostate cancer is THE most common. A staggering 1 in 6 men are affected by it!  Who is at most risk for this cancer, and why?   There are many risk factors.  Unfortunately many are not under our control, but some are. Age: The older you are, the more likely you are to be... read more »

Because of the close proximity of the prostate to several vital structures, prostate cancer and its treatment strategies can disrupt normal urinary, bowel, and sexual functioning. Urinary function—Under normal circumstances, the urinary sphincters (bands of muscle tissue at the base of the bladder and at the base of the prostate) remain tightly shut, preventing urine that’s stored in the bladder... read more »

Did you know the prostate is a small gland about the size of a walnut that sits under the bladder and in front of the rectum? The urethra is the narrow tube that runs the length of the penis and carries both urine and semen out of the body, and runs directly through the prostate. Sitting just above the prostate... read more »

As  the holidays approach, I wonder why we do what we do.  Where did our traditions come from?  I was reading on www.history.com about the Jack-o-lantern.  Maybe my fascination comes from the fact that "Jack" usually has a big toothy grin.  Whatever the reason for my interest, I am sure you will find this as interesting as I did! People have been... read more »

I know my writings have been riveting, and  you have been reading this blog faithfully since its inception; so you know how I "cheated" on my Honda Shadow back in March. (If not, here is the original post. http://albertmendez.wordpress.com/2010/03/ ) Now that you are up to speed, I want to share with you "the rest of the story". Shortly before Father's Day,... read more »

Saw this recently, and enjoyed it.  I thought you would too. Pets are cute and cuddly, but what are their real benefits? Here are just a few of the ways pets can help you out: Pets improve your mood. Stroking, cuddling, and just being around a pet that gives unconditional love helps many people become happier. In fact, more than... read more »

Despite our best efforts, most patients in our practice have had at least one cavity and filling in their lives.  If you are in your thirties or older, chances are your fillings were made of metal.  Recently these fillings have become a controversial topic in the health press. This material, known as "amalgam," is actually a combination of silver, tin,... read more »