Pubdate: Mon, 22 Feb 2016 Source: Philadelphia Inquirer, The (PA) Copyright: 2016 Philadelphia Newspapers Inc Contact: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/340 Author: Maria Belkadi A MEDICAL NECESSITY My son, Marksen, 7, was diagnosed with autism at age 2. He has always had difficulty with behavioral issues, but his condition has worsened greatly in the past year: He has become violent toward himself and others, especially his family. Marksen has been to the hospital at least 50 times in the last year- to the emergency room, gastrointestinal doctors, and an autism specialist. We've tried various medications, with numerous side effects and little relief. He suffers daily. What are we to do? Medical marijuana seems to be our only hope. We live within three hours of Delaware, where medical marijuana is legal. Should we be forced to move to a state where we have no family, no roots, no support, because our state refuses to take action? Whom do the state legislators who oppose legalizing medical marijuana work for really - the pharmaceutical companies? We cannot stand idly by while these so-called representatives of the people fight families like ours at every turn for a medicine that will change lives. Maria Belkadi, Mount Carmel, Pa., --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom