Pubdate: Thu, 01 Apr 1999
Date: 04/01/1999
Source: Edmonton Sun (Canada)
Author: Susan Cullen
Comment: Parenthetical remark by the Sun editor

Pot to ease the pain. Wish I had thought about that a few years ago
when my brother and friend both died after a five-year battle with
cancer. Although marijuana was illegal then and still is, I think they
would have been grateful for a few moments of relief.

Canada should legalize marijuana in a controlled environment for
medicinal use whether it's for cancer, HIV/AIDS or other serious illnesses.

What is the difference between this painkiller and other prescribed
medications? Many drugs are derived from various plants.

Some medications are more effective for some people and if marijuana
works, why not? At one point my brother was prescribed morphine which
left him just like a zombie. (He eventually said no to morphine.) Had
he been allowed marijuana, he would have been closer to his normal,
upbeat self. When a person reaches the beginning of the end, I think
that person is beyond the stage of being corrupted.

The issue becomes compassion.

Susan Cullen

(Most Canadians agree with you.)