Letters: Be safe watching the solar eclipse, too few beds in Bloomington hospital ER

Wear eye protection to safely watch the solar eclipse

Why are people so intrigued by the solar eclipse happening on April 8, 2024?

There is no doubt that this particular event will be one of the most astounding astronomical sights some of us have ever seen. Once the moon completely eclipses the sun, we will stand in darkness for over 4 minutes. About 32 million individuals will be in the narrow strip of totality and able to witness this miraculous event.

Unfortunately, we will not have another chance to witness an event such as this for another two decades. The next solar eclipse to cross our sky will be in 2044 and the path of totality will be significantly smaller.

So, with all of this being said, this will be an event worth attending with your friends, family and community. Though I’m sure this will be a time filled with amazement and fun, it's important to stay safe as you do so.

Solar eclipse glasses are being sold almost everywhere along the strip of totality. Looking directly at the sun for any period can cause serious retinal damage and could even be permanent. So, as you and your family prepare for this magical and possibly life-changing event, be sure and wear eye protection and stay safe!

Hannah Montgomery, Linton

Too few beds in hospital ER

Recently I had to make a run to the emergency room at IU Bloomington Hospital. As no bed was available, I was parked in a small space. I waited 24 hours before I was offered a room. My experience seems to be very common.

There are too few beds to meet the need. The lack of beds causes problems for everyone. For medical staff, they wonder how to provide the best care in a chaotic situation. For those parked in a cubby hole while awaiting a bed, we wonder if we’ll ever be assigned a bed.

Though we don’t want to think of expanding the number of beds, it’s time to admit the need is great. Now is the time to plan how to expand the number of beds in Bloomington.

We realize that Bloomington is a place that serves all of southern Indiana. Bloomington offers a broad array of cultural events, many beautiful neighborhoods and excellent shopping. Even with these attractions, recruiting medical personnel is challenging.

Bloomington has a better shot than small rural communities.

Norman Holy, Bloomington