Re: [sumo] Asashouryuu obliged to undergo SARS check-up

[<peter@my.email.ne.jp>]

> From: Doreen Simmons <jz8d-smmn@asahi-net.or.jp>
> Subject: Re: [sumo] Asashouryuu obliged to undergo SARS check-up

[snip]

Doreen, agree with you on the rather prejudicial treatment and hyped up
panic associated with the SARS virus, for people from other Asian countries,
that is currently occurring in Japan.  It has no medical or epidemiological
basis.  Of course the Sumo Kyokai's stand is deplorable, but that wouldn't
be a first time that such blinkered, prejudicial treatment not based in fact
or common sense was postured by them now would it?

However, as someone who was travelling through Hong Kong to the Antipodes
and back during the peak of the SARS panic in April, I can tell you that the
misinformed blaming and hype is not restricted to Japan.

Has the HIV pandemic and uninformed fear initially associated with it not
taught us any lessons?  In disease forget finger pointing at countries,
groups or individuals, stick to scientific and medical facts, advise
appropriately, then realise that in disease all are victims and finger
pointing only has the role of alienating and reducing those needing medical
attention seeking it.  Good, sound advice will outweigh any draconian
measures of checking a group that has the finger pointed at it.
 
>> Two  Sandanme Mongolians, Daionji and Daibanjaku, have already returned
>> from their trip and presented the Kyoukai with negative check-up
>> results.Kitanoumi Rijichou.

My real reason for posting was to enquire after Daibanjaku, my adopted
rikishi.  I had the pleasure of seeing him at the Asahiyama-beya camp in
Osaka, about 3 years ago (not too long after he had arrived in Japan), then
share chanko nabe with him, his visiting elder brother (who at first I
mistook for his translator) and ex-Makuuchi rikishi Daishoho.  However,
although I have been keenly following his progress, I must say I have been
negligent in visiting his heya or sending encouraging letters to support
him, like a real adopted Dad should.  Would love a brief report on how his
physique, Japanese language ability and attitude are developing, if you have
the time.

Cheers, Pete.

[EndPost by <peter@my.email.ne.jp>]