Three people shot at the Kansas City Chiefs Super Bowl parade are grappling with the decision to leave bullets in their bodies. James Lemons, 39, wants the bullet removed from his thigh so he can return to work. Sarai Holguin, 71, has accepted the bullet lodged near her knee as her "compa" (close friend). Mireya Nelson, 15, will live with fragments in her jaw and shoulder for now, as doctors monitor lead levels in her blood.
Medical protocol offers no clear answer on whether to remove bullets. A 2016 survey found only 15% of surgeons work at facilities with policies on bullet removal. Doctors often leave bullets buried deep in the body to avoid further trauma. However, as gun violence has become a public health epidemic, some researchers question this practice.
Lemons, Holguin, and Nelson are coping in different ways. Lemons wants the bullet removed to alleviate pain and return to work. Holguin has accepted her bullet as a reminder of the incident. Nelson will undergo monitoring for lead poisoning and potential future surgery.
The decision to remove bullets is complex, considering factors like pain, infection, and mental health concerns. Surgeons often prioritize saving lives over long-term healing. Patients' preferences also play a role. Lemons' surgery is scheduled for this month, and he hopes to regain his normal life.
The shooting has left the victims with physical and emotional scars, as well as financial struggles. Lemons' family has raised funds for his surgery and living expenses. The incident highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing gun violence, including medical protocols and support for victims.
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