Pubdate: Sun, 29 Jul 2001
Source: Palm Beach Post (FL)
Copyright: 2001 The Palm Beach Post
Contact:  http://www.gopbi.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/333
Author: Ira G. Warshaw

NO SCAPEGOAT IN DRUG DEATH

Matthew Kaminer's death from an overdose of OxyContin in April 2000 (Courts 
brief in Metro Report July 21, "The parents . . . filed suit") is a tragedy 
of immeasurable proportion for his parents and loved ones. As a parent of 
three, I only can imagine their anguish.

Yet the filing of a lawsuit against the local pharmacy as well as the 
manufacturer is another example of people's growing need to blame someone 
else for their own stupid, irresponsible acts. OxyContin is a prescription 
drug, a controlled substance and has potential side effects. Anyone who 
takes another person's medication runs grave risks, and Mr. Kaminer assumed 
responsibility for his tragic death. Is a razor-blade manufacturer 
responsible for the inappropriate use of that item in an act of suicide?

When will we be able to step back and say "this is a tragedy, but he 
brought it upon himself"? Young people are risk-takers; bad judgment on Mr. 
Kaminer's part does not mean someone else is to blame. And certainly no 
amount of money will make up for his senseless death.

IRA G. WARSHAW
West Palm Beach
- ---
MAP posted-by: Beth