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.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman