DEAR DR. GOTT: Keep up your excellent work and honest reporting; it is much appreciated. I also want to thank you for not using our e-mail addresses for any other purpose. And, lastly, I want to mention that providing an e-mail address, telephone number or even a last name should be optional unless the correspondent wishes to do so.

I know many people will use you in the worst sense of the word for “free” medical advice outside your column’s parameters. It’s just human nature, I guess.

DEAR READER: Although my website does not specify that last name, e-mail address or telephone are required or optional, they are, in fact, optional. I even tested this myself by simply putting in my first name, typing a message, and clicking the submit button. I did receive my own message.

Thank you for the compliments.