Pubdate: Tue, 30 Nov 2004
Source: Tennessean, The (TN)
Copyright: 2004 The Tennessean
Contact:  http://www.tennessean.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/447
Author: David Smith
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/mmj.htm (Cannabis - Medicinal)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/find?232 (Chronic Pain)
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/decrim.htm (Decrim/Legalization)

MARIJUANA CAN EASE PAIN OF CHRONIC ILLNESS

To the Editor:

I believe it is high time our lawmakers took the blinders off when it comes 
to medical use of marijuana.

There is more than ample research that proves many patients have better 
results with marijuana than many conventional medicines. But many say they 
fear legalization would only lead to more problems. ("Medicinal marijuana 
up for review," Nov. 28)

Most people who have cancer usually take opiate-based drugs for pain - as 
well as taking another drug for nausea so they can eat. I think it would be 
far better to take only one drug for these symptoms.

Now consider the concern that people who survive cancer wind up addicted to 
opiates. I am sure it is easier to quit smoking pot than to go cold turkey 
off of opiates. I just don't know what all the fuss is about. It will still 
be illegal to buy, sell or grow pot. If passed, the government would 
control the program. And the big drug companies could even get in on the 
action.

I do not know why anyone would be opposed to something that may help those 
who are terribly ill or dying. It is a shame that in a country like America 
we do not have the right to die comfortably. It is a bigger shame to think 
our own lawmakers would deny us that right.

David Smith

Ashland City 37015
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