Pubdate: Mon, 25 Apr 2011
Source: Helena Independent Record (MT)
Copyright: 2011 Helena Independent Record
Contact: http://helenair.com/app/contact/letters_to_editor/
Website: http://helenair.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1187
Author: Eric D. Schneider

REEFER MADNESS

I am a 70-year-old, Ph.D., and grandfather who has suffered from daily
migraine headaches for 30 years. Doctors have treated me with over 30
prescription drugs, many of these being narcotics like codeine and
barbiturates. I was addicted, addicted to relief from constant pain.
With the help of a physician, the same doctor who signed my medical
marijuana application, I am now off all medications. I can't even take
an aspirin and do not drink. It appears the painkillers were making my
headaches worse.

Now, my only relief from these virulent headaches is medical
marijuana. Without this medicine I can be thrown into vomiting,
diarrhea and intense pain.

Now, the Legislature has Reefer Madness. Present proposals suggest
that patients like myself grow it for themselves or have it given to
them. Get real! Are you going to put 85-year-old Grandma in the back
room growing pot while she deals with her chemotherapy? When you have
basically outlawed this drug, you are sending Grandma's children into
the streets hunting for marijuana. What a boon for the Mexican drug
gangs! Governor, slow this process down and do this right.

Dr. Eric D. Schneider

Livingston 
- ---
MAP posted-by: Richard Lake