Pubdate: Sat, 6 Feb 2010
Source: Record, The (Stockton, CA)
Copyright: 2010 The Record
Contact: http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?Category=A_OPINION05
Website: http://www.recordnet.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/428
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v09/n1163/a03.html
Author: Kirk Muse

WHY RISK SIDE EFFECTS?

I'm responding to the outstanding letter "If pot helps, then it is
good" (Dec. 30, The Record).

One of the medications prescribed by my physician for my arthritis
pain and inflammation has the rare potential side effect of death.

In other words, if I take this medication as prescribed, I can die as
a result.

On the other hand, marijuana has never been documented to kill a
single person in the 5,000-year history of its use.

For me, marijuana is the more effective medication.

Now, if adults opt for the safer and more effective medication, they
are subject to arrest and being sent to jail with violent criminals.

Is something wrong with this situation? I think so.

Shouldn't adults have the freedom to choose what goes into their own
bodies in the privacy of their own homes?

Kirk Muse

Mesa, Ariz.
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake