Pubdate: Fri, 15 Nov 2013
Source: Arizona Republic (Phoenix, AZ)
Copyright: 2013 The Arizona Republic
Contact: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/opinions/sendaletter.html
Website: http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/24
Author: E.J. Montini

IT'S THE STATE VS. PROVEN HELP FOR A SICK LITTLE BOY

We can't expect an ill, autistic, 5-year-old boy to understand the 
complex needs of the American judicial system.

But we can, and should, expect the judicial system to understand the 
complex needs of an ill, autistic, 5-year-old boy.

His name is Zander Welton. He suffers from a medical condition that 
causes debilitating seizures.

This week, lawyers from the American Civil Liberties Union asked a 
Maricopa County Superior Court judge to grant an injunction allowing 
Zander's parents to resume treating their son with a medical marijuana extract.

If they were to do so now, given the way Arizona prosecutors have 
chosen to interpret the state's medical marijuana law, Zander's 
parents could be arrested.

They worry about the impact that would have on Zander and their other children.

Zander was treated with a number of traditional and experimental 
medications, as well as surgery, before his parents acquired a 
medical marijuana card for their son and tried cannabis oil.

In their injunction request with the court, Zander's attorneys write:

"Jacob and Jennifer have seen significant positive changes in Zander 
since he began taking medical marijuana. He is showing signs of 
wanting emotional stimulation and notices that people are people, not 
inanimate objects. Zander is seeking attention and climbs into his 
parents' laps when he wants comfort or love.

"He is actively trying to play with his brothers, and he recognizes 
his parents' laughter and responds with his own laughter. Zander's 
physical development has also improved.
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