I live with multiple sclerosis; I am asking our state representatives to support the compassionate, tightly crafted medical cannabis bill, House Bill 30. Many other Illinoisans who have worked hard to enact medical cannabis legislation-people living with cancer, fibromyalgia, HIV/AIDS, Crohn's and other debilitating illnesses-have not lived to see the day when we can stop being afraid for our freedom of choice.

I have been at the forefront of the medical cannabis movement in Illinois for the last eight years, testifying before Senate and House committees in support of legislation, visiting countless legislators and interviewing with media outlets locally and nationwide. My story and connections with other patients have given hope to many.

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As someone who lives with multiple sclerosis, I was shocked and extremely saddened by the story of Jonathan Magbie as chronicled in an Oct. 2 editorial and Colbert I. King's op-ed columns on Oct. 9, 16 and 23.

I don't understand what is going on in this country. What lesson did Superior Court Judge Judith E. Retchin think she was teaching?

I would like The Post to continue monitoring this story and situation. This is too important to ignore.

Chicago

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