My post on Hal Fishman's premature death from colon cancer generated a lot of e-mails.  With some routine testing (including a colonoscopy), doctors might have detected his illness and treated it, and he might still be with us.

Dee of Claremont writes:

Would it be possible to do an educational program on colon cancer--it would be a nice tribute to Hal. Because he had such a huge following (me included) it would be a far reaching public service. Many of us were shocked to hear about his quick demise from colon cancer and it leaves many questions about the necessity of colonoscopies etc. Our sympathy is with all of you at KTLA--you all have held up very well and with dignity during a most difficult time. He was a very special person and really is irreplacable or at least very hard to replace. Thank you.

I think it's an excellent idea.  Pete of Sylmar wants to take it a step further:

Eric mentioned that everyone over 50 should have a colonoscopy. Why don't you do a segment with Eric having a colonoscopy on air, much like Katy Couric did. This would teach your viewers how easy it is and what the steps are. After this you can do one on other medical procedures that can save lives if done early.

Pete, I'm not yet 50, and I've already had a colonoscopy.  There's colon cancer in my family.  That's why I went in for this test a little earlier than most people.  At least one polyp was detected and removed.  But I think your idea has merit.  I wonder if my insurance will pay...

As I've written here before, a conoloscopy really is no big deal.  Melanie of Camarillo attests to that:

The day before the procedure is a real s***y day. LITERALLY! Do not make plans to leave the house. The worst thing about the actual exam is the anticipation. I have no memory of it at all. In fact, the first thing I remember is being at home and picking up my purse to go to the market. My husband told me I couldn't drive for the day. Oh...yeah. Get that screening. We don't want to lose another person from your team!!!! And take Mark's car.