ADDICTION-DISABILITY PARALLEL RESONATES

I don't know anything about John Turvey and didn't read the article that
prompted the letters in the April 26-May 3 issue. Everyone has an opinion
about addiction and addicts; however, how many of these people are
informed? Apparently, not many.

It is a fact that certain people are genetically predisposed to addiction.
It is also a fact that once a predisposed individual chooses the path of
alcohol or narcotics there is a point after a period of abuse when the
brain is irreparably damaged. This damage has devastating results that
affect all areas of their lives. Hence the parallel (albeit somewhat shaky)
that can be drawn between an addict and someone with a different type of
physical disability. Many addicts can still be reformed, but many are
beyond the point of no return. They didn't plan on intentionally destroying
themselves when they took their first toke, drink, or hit any more than the
paraplegic planned on getting in a car accident the day of his/her injury.

The fact remains that everyone has an opinion on every topic every day. The
sad truth is that we tend to speak of "them and ourselves" like we are
somehow better. We will all have to stand before our maker and give an
account of ourselves soon. We are all God's children and it's my
understanding that He doesn't play favourites.

Martin Foran, employee North Shore Emergency Shelter North Vancouver