Pubdate: Mon, 17 May 1999
Source: Canberra Times (Australia)
Contact:  http://www.canberratimes.com.au/
Author: Tom Parsons

ADDICTS CAN CHOOSE, DIABETICS CANNOT

I AM TIRED, so tired, of hearing people argue that heroin should be a
legal, prescription drug, thus removing the need for addicts to steal
to support their habit. Addicts do not need to steal at all. They made
a choice to use heroin and they can make a choice to stop using it. I
am a diabetic. I am, therefore, a member of that group which did not
choose to be diabetic but is saddled with trying to cope with the
condition, and its side effects, a condition which is recognised in
some medical journals as the fifth biggest killer in Australia.

As a diabetic, on a very small income, I am required to: Buy my
needles (no free allocation to diabetics, I won't use the word
"exchange'' because the needle-exchange program is a fallacy). Pay for
all specialist consultations and treatments, which I genuinely need.
Pay for all medications, such as insulin, which I need.

I also, along with all other diabetics of my acquaintance, dispose of
used needles in a responsible, safe, community-minded way. Diabetics,
who did not choose their condition, try to lead as near a normal life
as possible. They pay a heavy physical, emotional and financial price
as long-term diabetics. Perhaps society should work a little harder to
help this group rather than expending much energy on a self-indulgent
group which seems to be proving that the squeaky gate gets the oil.

TOM PARSONS
Chifley
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