Pubdate: Fri, 23 Jul 2004 Source: Comox Valley Record (CN BC) Copyright: 2004 Comox Valley Record Contact: http://www.comoxvalleyrecord.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/784 Author: Stanley B. Hagen, Member 103, North Island Compassion Society Note: from MAP - since the author stated that his name would not be printed, we are not sure why a name is shown at the Webpage: above. Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v04/n983/a10.html Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmjcn.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal - Canada) Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?224 (Cannabis and Driving) MARIJUANA MEDICAL MARVEL Sir: This letter is in response to the hysterical, inept, and incorrect letter sent in by Clarence Tiffenbach of Fanny Bay. Mr. Tiffenbach definitely needs to do some research into marijuana before writing such ridiculous drivel. You suggest that marijuana users lack motivation.You make a general, unproved statement.If this were true, why do people go to such lengths to grow, trim, sell and consume, all undercover from the watchful eyes of others? If people are concerned about motivation (or lack of it), I would suggest turning to the 'off' switch on the television. I would also like to know where your information regarding driving while using marijuana comes from because all known studies have concluded that people under the influence of marijuana (alone) usually drive better than people being straight. Marijuana is not a gateway drug. If you're looking for a gateway drug look first to the drugs that one can buy whether prescription or over the counter,(including alcohol and tobacco). Don't think for one minute that some of the drugs prescribed by doctors are not dangerous and highly addictive, however, they do get the job done so no one complains except the person now trying to go cold turkey themselves. Marijuana is used by many as a medicinal aid that is very effective and safe. It can be smoked for immediate relief of symptoms. It's very effective for pain control, nausea, anxiety, depression.It's really beneficial to people suffering through brain injuries, allowing them the ability to keep their thoughts together.That one little thing alone enables them to make constructive decisions.You may not think that's much, but to me it's important. For obvious reasons my name will not be published with this letter, even though my use of marijuana has been recognized and signed by two doctors. (Good for Jack Layton. At least he recognizes the merits of pot and the financial benefits and safety of individualsthat wouldaccrue from the legalization of this product.) - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake