MACOSKO IS A HERO TO MANY

In response to Claire Fortier's very rude perception to Matt Macosko in
the April 18 edition of the Tahoe Daily Tribune, I would like to say
that I think it is upsetting that one can be so cruel as to damage
another's character, especially not knowing that person. In this day and
age it is so sad to know that there are still superficial people who
think that "if something ain't broke don't fix it."

I am sorry to say but that short-minded attitude is why many people are
in pain today. There are far too many people who are in fact suffering
from life-threatening illnesses and are already taking many types of
medications, which only make them feel worse. If there is a possibility
that marijuana, under the eyes of medical science, can help such
chronically ill patients, then why even question someone who is willing
to help the process? "Marijuana probably should have been legalized
decades ago," says Fortier.

Well unfortunately, marijuana wasn't made legal, although highly
addictive poisons such as cigarettes and alcohol were. Now due to such
highly addictive poisons, there are many people suffering from cancer.
Under the guidelines of medical marijuana these patients are able to
seek a type of relief that helps them progress in their recovery. Due to
chemotherapy, which still isn't a cure, patients suffer from nausea,
fatigue and malnutrition from not eating. There is medical evidence that
supports the fact that THC (the substance in marijuana that chemically
alters the body) can help these patients overcome these side effects.

It is hard enough for one to be told they are suffering from a disease
that could in fact take their life. If there is a chance that such a
natural substance can help them in any way, shape or form, then let them
be relieved. We should thank such a person like Matt Macosko for risking
himself to the justice system for those who are suffering. All Macosko
is trying to do is help those who are suffering and educate those who
are not.

I would like to say to you, Ms. Fortier, before making character
judgments on someone like Macosko, why don't you spend some time with
the chronically ill patients or Macosko himself? You may just be
surprised on what he is trying to do. By the way, in regard to your
words in your editorial, could you be the one to explain what B.S. means
to my child?

Valerie Madriaga, South Lake Tahoe