Pubdate: Tue, 25 Nov 2003
Source: Ocean County Observer (NJ)
Copyright: 2003 Ocean County Observer
Contact:  http://www.injersey.com/observer/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1212
Author:  Scott Russ
Referenced:  http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v03/n1767/a07.html
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/people/Cheryl+Miller

MEDICAL MARIJUANA CAN HELP THOSE WHO NEED IT

Thanks for publishing the honest letter by Jim Miller.

Those who believe medical marijuana is a hoax have never met a patient
who has gotten relief from a debilitating illness by using cannabis.

I know first hand what this plant can do.

My mother suffers from uncontrollable epileptic seizures. She has been
on more than 20 prescription medications and has even had the vagus
nerve stimulator implanted in her neck. She still has problems with
auras and seizures.

Cannabis is able to prevent her seizures completely. There is no
question that cannabinoids are able to prevent seizures and help those
who suffer from a variety of other illnesses.

Our government knows this.

There is current research, as well as research from 20 years ago, that
shows, without a doubt, these cannabinoids are medicinal. The
synthetic version of THC, Marinol, does not benefit patients, as does
the natural plant, which contains more than 60 cannabinoids. And
cannabis can be vaporized or eaten, which eliminates all carcinogens,
so the harmful effects of smoking are no excuse for our government's
actions.

Our "leaders" need to find the courage to put an end to terrorizing
sick and dying Americans simply for trying to live free of pain and
suffering.

Scott Russ

Baton Rouge, La.
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MAP posted-by: Larry Seguin