WAR ON THE SICK AND DYING

Two years ago a relative, dying of cancer, was advised by his VA doctor to
smoke marijuana to relieve his nausea and rapid weight loss. Other
medicine wasn't working; indeed, he couldn't keep it down.

This gentleman's wife, in desperation, ventured into seedy bars and found
marijuana for her husband. As a result, he gained weight, lived longer and
enjoyed a higher quality of life.

How sad that Barry McCaffrey, a retired general with no medical credentials,
chooses to threaten doctors and patients who wish to use this effective
medicine (Blade Pro & Con Issue, Jan 12).

McCaffrey is concerned about possible abuse. But doctors and their
patients do not make medical decisions based on the possibility that others
may abuse medicine. Cocaine is prescribable, after all.

Ohio, like other states, has tried to reduce the damage of this short
sighted federal position by allowing medical use of marijuana-- when
supported by a recommendation of their doctor.

Let's hope our legislators have the courage to stand up to federal
interference by maintaining and improving this sensible and compassionate
law.

The war on drugs should not be used as an excuse to wage war on the sick and dying.

Richard Lake

Sylvania