Pubdate: Tue, 21 Jan 2003
Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC)
Copyright: 2003 Times Colonist
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/victoria/timescolonist/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481
Author: D.V. Brodeur
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n091/a01.html

IT'S A CHOICE, NOT AN ILLNESS

Re: "Drug dealers thrive despite added heat," Jan. 20.

The only illness I am at risk of contracting is my being sick if I have to 
read one more time about drug abuse being an illness.

Did the alcohol sneak into someone's system through a handshake? Did the 
heroin jump off the street into someone's vein?

If a person is addicted it is because they made a big mistake by starting 
the use of a drug. It is impossible for anyone in this educated society to 
use drugs without being aware of the possible consequences.

Most people take responsibility for their mistakes and don't call it an 
"illness." Why should drug abusers be any different?

Say you made a mistake and need help, but don't say you are ill.

D.V. Brodeur, Victoria.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager