Pubdate: Thu, 13 Nov 2003 Source: Examiner, The (Independence, MO) Copyright: 2003 The Examiner Contact: http://www.examiner.net/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/3074 Author: Scott Russ OFFICIAL MISSES POINT ON MEDICAL MARIJUANA To the editor: State Senator-elect Victor Calla han wants there to be a consensus before backing legislation? (The Examiner Oct. 31, "Picking up the medical marijuana torch?") When your government threatens to throw you in jail for trying to help patients, how can there be a consensus? The war against medical marijuana isn't about protecting patients. It's about ignorance and politics. There is no question that these cannabinoids have medicinal value. Why else would pharmaceutical companies be scrambling to create synthetic versions of them? We are now getting reports of studies from several nations, including our own, confirming the successful use of cannabinoids to treat muscular sclerosis, epilepsy and other sicknesses. Other nations are distributing cannabis and cannabis-based medications via prescription to those who benefit from its use. In America we incarcerate those who try to alleviate their pain and suffering by using cannabis. Humans were meant to use this natural medicine, and our government will one day be held accountable for prosecuting sick and dying Americans. Scott Russ Baton Rouge, La. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman