Pubdate: Tue, 05 Feb 2002 Source: Charlotte Observer (NC) Copyright: 2002 The Charlotte Observer Contact: http://www.charlotte.com/observer/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/78 Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n176/a09.html?2451 Author: Dave Michon GOVERNMENT CRUEL TO PAIN VICTIMS In response to "Doctor defends his pain pill prescribing" (Feb. 1): The continuing persecution of pain specialists such as Dr. Joseph Talley threatens us all. You can bet these politicians and DEA types will find the strongest drugs available when they need them! Pain control has to be unlocked across the board, so regular folks can get it when needed. We cannot now; I promise you that. In my daily agonies I think of hypocrites such as Attorney General Ashcroft, who is painting sufferers into a corner by also refusing to allow assisted-suicide. Those who may be healthy now should think of what they'll do when the time comes. Dave Michon - --- MAP posted-by: Jackl