Pubdate: Sun, 03 Feb 2002
Source: Tallahassee Democrat (FL)
Copyright: 2002 Tallahassee Democrat.
Contact:  http://www.tdo.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/444
Author: Don Bertoch
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n152/a08.html

COVERAGE OF NOELLE BUSH WAS UNFORTUNATE AND DISGUSTING

The editor's decision to publish the news about Noelle Bush (front page, 
Jan. 30) was both unfortunate and disgusting.

The paper pandered to the public's penchant for gossip, especially when it 
involves the locally rich, famous and powerful. Its content did little if 
anything to increase the public's understanding of the nature and course of 
having a substance abuse disorder that impairs judgment and emotional 
control which, in turn, produces social, psychological and legal problems.

John Winn Miller's defense (column, Jan. 30) reflected little understanding 
and compassion for Ms. Bush, who suffered from what is likely a serious 
mental health and/or substance abuse condition.

It was unfortunate the articles were published because they may be harmful 
to the well-being and health of Ms. Bush and other members of the Bush 
family. Possible negative outcomes affecting Ms. Bush and/or family members 
include ostracism from the community, estrangement among family members, 
clinical depression, homelessness, intensified substance abuse, suicide 
attempts, job loss and protracted unemployment in the community.

Don Bertoch
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jo-D