How many of us grappled with eating disorders or other issues in our teens and 20s, almost before we were conscious of anything but our own confusion and pain? When I was reading Barbara Mahany’s article (“My fragile future,” Oct. 1), my heart went out to her. How horrible to pay so dearly for a moment in her history that had already cost her so much. And to look into the future with such uncertainty and terrifying options, which give her no choice but to continue gambling for a better life so she can, indeed, dance at her sons’ weddings. I hope that the greatest challenge she faces at those weddings is what she will wear and who will cater.
LENNIE ROSE / Oak Park
Unnatural drug
Regarding the column about period-stopping pharmaceuticals (Just One Thing, Oct. 1), I pity any woman who feels discomfort or shame regarding the amazing efficiency, abiding mystery, and yes, beauty, of the body that nature gave us. Why would we ever want to stop a natural hormonal process? Will pharmaceutical companies soon be coming out with a pill that stops men’s nocturnal emissions or hair from growing on their backs? I doubt it.
If these pharmaceutical companies really want to help women, why don’t put they put the money they spent on the period-stopping pill toward research for a cure for breast cancer?
KELLY GIBSON / Chicago
The $200 solution
So Amy Tara Koch spent $800 to have someone wash her hair with shampoo available at Target and trim 2 inches off her hair (“The price on her head,” Oct. 1)? As a former straight-hair wannabe who finally embraced the natural curl, I could have done as much for, oh, a quarter of the price including tips.
Oh, but wait. I can’t give $800 worth of bragging rights.
GWEN CORRIGAN / Niles
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