Pubdate: Mon, 20 Oct 2003 Source: Tennessean, The (TN) Copyright: 2003 The Tennessean Contact: http://www.tennessean.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/447 Author: David Eshelman LIMBAUGH NOT GIVEN FAIR SHAKE BY LIBERALS To the Editor: With glee and twisted pleasure, the mainstream liberal media has paraded Rush Limbaugh around like a conquered prisoner, sarcastically commenting on his serious problem with prescription drugs. The disrespect is appalling. In Ellen Goodman's Oct. 17 article, ''Rush, are we too tolerant now?'' she snidely likens Rush Limbaugh to a cocaine addict waiting for his next delivery of smack. The truth is you cannot compare Rush's problem with that of a habitual drug addict. Rush underwent unsuccessful back surgery that caused him a great deal of pain, so his doctor prescribed him OxyContin. Using any powerful prescription drug for a long period of time can lead to addiction for anyone, including Ellen Goodman. As a loyal Rush listener for 13 years, I was as shocked as anyone when the prescription drug allegations arose; however, despite what Ellen Goodman thinks, conservative Republicans are not getting ''too tolerant.'' There has not been a single conservative who has condoned Rush's addiction; we are, however, supporting Rush as he overcomes his problem. Rush Limbaugh has accepted full responsibility for his actions and has accepted the consequences as well. Ellen Goodman certainly would not show ''one of her own'' the national disrespect that she has shown Rush Limbaugh. Instead of jeering and snickering, the media should show Rush some dignity and give him privacy while he heals in rehab. When music artists, actors, and the Hollywood elite enter rehab for drug addiction, the media gives them dignity and privacy. The media need to show some class and give Rush equal treatment. David Eshelman Brentwood 37027 - --- MAP posted-by: Larry Stevens