Last word on astrology
Thursday, Feb. 25, 2021 Happy Birthday: You’ll be looking for answers this year, questioning everything and considering what to do next. Your energy is in high gear, and your desire to bring about change will keep you moving full speed ahead. Look at your skills, talents, knowledge and what’s trending, and you’ll find a unique way to use what you have to offer to succeed. Your numbers are 8, 12, 19, 28, 30, 37, 43.
Aries (March 21-April 19): Attending virtual meetings, connecting with people who have something to offer and exploring new possibilities regarding your professional goals are favored. The information you receive should be verified before you commit to participating. Trust your intuition when dealing with pushy people. 66666
Taurus (April 20-May 20):
Let others make the first moves. Don’t put yourself at risk or do something that will make you look bad or taint your reputation. Look inward and make personal changes that will build confidence and help you recognize what’s best for you. 66
Gemini (May 21-June 20): Observation is your best friend. Listen carefully, and you’ll discover discrepancies that work against what you are trying to achieve. Make corrections, be articulate and show compassion. You will gain respect and ward off discord. Expand your interests. 6666
Cancer (June 21-July 22): Keep your plans a secret until you have everything in place. Preparation will help you avoid loss. A personal or physical change you make will give you the boost you require to gain recognition. A romantic gesture will be difficult to resist. 666
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22): Don’t jump to conclusions or make assumptions. Stand back and let situations play out naturally. Distance yourself from people trying to get you involved in a questionable joint venture. Extravagant behavior will lead to limitations. 666
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Stick to what you know and do best. Don’t get involved in bureaucratic matters if you aren’t prepared with facts to back your claims. Concentrate on personal changes that will enhance your life and meaningful relationships, and bring you peace of mind.
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Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You are better off doing things on your own. Joint endeavors will lead to disappointment, arguments and loss. Use your intelligence and charm to outmaneuver anyone trying to push you in a direction you don’t want to head. Live life your way. 6666
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t count on someone using emotional means to manipulate you. Avoid people who keep changing their minds or are unpredictable. Build relationships with people who share your values, beliefs and interests. Romance is on the rise. 66
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Put your money to proper use. Look at your options, and consider offers that can take you to a better professional position. Don’t spend unnecessarily or expect others to pay your way. Do your part, stand your ground and follow your heart. 66666
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan.
19): An unexpected offer will grab your attention. Before you take action, go over details diligently. Leave nothing to chance, and look for pitfalls that can lead to a disagreement or loss. If doubt sets in, take a pass. 666
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): You’ll face indecisiveness if you receive mixed messages. Question whatever you don’t understand, and if you don’t get a satisfactory explanation, be prepared to walk away. Invest more time and effort into what you can achieve. Choose peace of mind over anxiety.
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Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20): Don’t stop until you reach your goal. He or she who hesitates will lose out on something spectacular. Use your intuition to navigate your way through any challenges you face. Trust in your ability to make things happen. 666
By Thomas Joseph
Dear Amy: I’m in my 60s and undergoing cancer treatment, therefore immunocompromised.
At both of my appointments with my surgeon, she has worn a loose fitting, thin, cloth mask. She has to get ver y close to me — face to face — to examine me. This has made me extremely uncomfortable, and frankly angr y. She has unnecessarily caused me additional stress during the most stressful period of my life. I didn’t say anything to her either time, because it felt too awkward.
In about a month she will have my life in her hands, and I don’t want her having any potential negative feelings toward me when I go under the knife. I’ve written an anonymous letter about this, which I haven’t sent. I want to report her primarily so she will use adequate PPE, but I don’t want repercussions. How should I handle this?
Dear Cautious: Dear Cautious: Your question reveals that the trust you should have may be missing with this surgeon.
I shared your question with a friend who is a cancer surgeon with 30 years of experience at a major cancer center. He and I share concern about you, and his response follows:
“Patient safety is paramount, not just during surger y, but also before and after. Almost ever yone is ner vous before surger y, but you should not also carry the anxiety of mistrust with you into the operating room. You should be cautious, because no matter how many operations your surgeon has done, this is your one.
“Since COVID, I always wear a surgical mask and will frequently add a face shield when seeing patients.
“Your surgeon should create an environment where you are able to express your concerns and ask questions. Ideally, you should raise your concern directly to her. How she responds will be ver y revealing. If she apologizes and thanks you for bringing this to her attention; that’s a good sign. If she is defensive, you should seek another surgeon.”
“You and your loved ones are your best advocates, but if your hospital has a patients’ advocate’s of fice, report your concern to them. They may not be surprised by your report, and if needed, can help you to change surgeons. They may help with either having a family member join for a critical in-person conversation with your surgeon, or if that’s not possible, listen to the consultation over the phone. Many patients are stressed and will not remember what their doctor says, so that extra pair of ears helps.
“There are many fine cancer surgeons out there. For critical and impor tant insights, read reviews of them. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Ser vices (Cms.gov) is working to make this information more transparent with ‘star ratings’ — and many hospitals advertise these scores.
“Surgeons are professionals with extensive training and a team to help them give you the best possible care. At the end of the day the surgeon should be there for you, not the other way around.”
Never forget that!
Dear Amy: Your response to “Deathly Afraid” was kind and suppor tive, but this new mom reported that she thinks about death ever y day. You should have suggested that she see her physician immediately. She might have serious postpar tum depression.
Dear Concerned: Thank you for aler ting me to this omission. I agree. PPD can af fect mothers even up to a year after giving bir th.