Pubdate: Wed, 14 Nov 2001 Source: Oklahoman, The (OK) Copyright: 2001 The Oklahoma Publishing Co. Contact: http://www.oklahoman.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/318 Author: Edward L Carson, Thelma Farha, Diana McElroy DON'T STRIP HANSEN OF LICENSE TO THE EDITOR: Regarding "Surgeon faces license threat on drug report" (news story, Nov. 6): Dr. Lori Hansen admitted her unfortunate addiction to narcotic pain medications. No human being from whatever walk of life is immune from the disease of alcoholism or drug addiction. It doesn't discriminate itself to just poor, ignorant people; no one who suffers from it should be locked away or stripped of their livelihoods. Compassion, counseling and treatment should replace the old ways of incarceration and punishment. I'm sure Hansen is a kind, competent and well-loved person. She should not be stripped of her medical license. That would be the real crime. Edward L. Carson, City - ----------------------------------- SUPPORTING HANSEN TO THE EDITOR: Thank you for "Take Time to Care; Lori Hansen: Fairness, Restraint Needed" (editorial," Nov. 7). I agree, and I, too, hope and pray that she will get a fair shake. Thelma Farha, City - ---------------------------------------------- ENDORSING 'LORI' TO THE EDITOR: Much has been written and said about Dr. Lori Hansen in the past few days. A few years ago Hansen changed my life. I had spent many years embarrassed and ashamed of my appearance because of the lack of skill and the substandard care of another "physician." I benefited from Hansen's compassion and expertise. I consider her as my friend and refer to her as "Lori" when sharing my experience and what she did for me. I will unshakably support her forever. Diana McElroy, City - --- MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart