I invite – indeed welcome — anyone to write in requesting well-researched practical advice or emotional support. And I am more than happy to post guest blogs, comments, and news reports regarding longevity, illness, death and dying. With one major exception: The Checkout Line cannot give medical advice, and will not offer its site to those touting so-called last minute “miracle cures.”

      There is also one other unalterable rule. The comments and guest bloggers must be civil. Readers and bloggers can take issue with whatever is posted, with my blessing. They can be miserable or funny, outraged or pleased, despondent or witty — and also be completely passionate in their views. I will respect all that. What they cannot be is insulting, either to those writing in for help or to those offering counsel. Harsh words, name-calling, suggestions that anyone might in some way have brought on his own illness or contributed to another’s suffering – all this will be stricken from the site. So keep your questions and comments lively, interesting, controversial, even witty. But be polite. Dying is tough enough