Pubdate: Thu, 11 Jun 2015 Source: Philadelphia Inquirer, The (PA) Copyright: 2015 Philadelphia Newspapers Inc Contact: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/340 Author: Jennifer Tatta HEALTH GROUPS ADVOCATE EASING RESTRICTIONS As a person suffering from fibromyalgia and chronic neuropathy, I was disturbed by Ed Gogek's claim that medical marijuana laws are unnecessary and harmful, despite all the experience to the contrary from around the country ("Medical pot laws harmful, unnecessary," June 4). There are 23 states, plus the District of Columbia and Guam, with effective medical marijuana laws, which have helped treat and comfort suffering patients. Gogek claims that no medical organizations are pushing for medical marijuana; in fact, numerous health groups are vocal proponents of regulated medical marijuana. As for the alternative medications Gogek mentions, they are more expensive and have been found by many patients to be far less effective. Jennifer Tatta, Greenville - --- MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom