Pubdate: Mon, 23 Jul 2001
Source: Kitchener-Waterloo Record (CN ON)
Copyright: 2001 Kitchener-Waterloo Record
Contact:  http://www.therecord.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/225
Author: Nestor Merino

LEARN THE RISKS BEFORE USING DRUGS

Yet another teen dies from an overdose, no one is too concerned and another 
person is charged in connection with the death. Putting people in jail is 
not the solution, neither is legalizing the substances that are killing my 
peers.

I do not encourage people to use drugs but I am concerned about the lack of 
resources and the stigma attached to those who do. People need to learn 
what they are taking, what the risks are and how to do it safely. For 
example, people who have asthma or heart problems should not take ecstasy 
or speed because of the strain they add to an already over-burdened system.

One should do drugs only with people whom one trusts, carry one's vitals 
(home address, telephone, money for a cab), have enough rest before and 
after, never do drugs on an empty stomach and keep one's fluid intake 
constant. Avoid mixing up drugs or mixing them with alcohol. Do not drive.

I am not giving people a licence to do whatever they want. I am telling 
them to be safe and know the risks of what they do because it is better to 
inform people rather than let them die as a result of their own ignorance.

Nestor Merino

Kitchener
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom