Pubdate: Fri, 14 Feb 2003
Source: Springfield News-Leader (MO)
Copyright: 2003 The Springfield News-Leader
Contact:  http://www.springfieldnews-leader.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1129
Author: Sandra Baker

RECOVERING ADDICTS SIMPLY ILL

This is in regards to the Talbot House ("Talbot House not welcomed by 
neighbors," Feb. 12 Ozarks section).

People are not understanding that these people aren't criminals. They are 
individuals that have an illness. It's an illness that some need help in 
the transition back into society.

They are more of a threat to themselves than others. I just can't stress 
enough that they are not a threat to the neighborhood. Yes, there are some 
individuals who are going to make a blemish on the concept, but they are no 
more of a threat than some of the individuals that are in the nursing home 
next door.

I think personally it's fantastic. I've visited the facility as a guest and 
see the potential of it being an asset to our community.

People, wake up. This is an illness and those with it have a hard time 
moving back into life. Don't pull the rug out from under them.

Sandra Baker, Springfield
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MAP posted-by: Alex