MARIJUANA: THE NARK NEEDS TO CHILL

Re "Smokescreen of medical pot clouds view of the dangers," Forum, Nov. 12:
DEA agent Gordon Taylor needs to lighten up on some of society's most
vulnerable citizens -- patients who benefit from doctor-approved cannabis.
He wrote a commentary disseminating much medical advice, but only
physicians are qualified to do that.

The Institute of Medicine states, "cientific data indicate the potential
therapeutic value of cannabinoid drugs, primarily THC, for pain relief,
control of nausea and vomiting, and appetite stimulation." The United
Kingdom classifies marijuana as a soft drug, punishable for personal
amounts by a simple warning. The United States should emulate Europe. And
Taylor should help our sick and dying people live, not seek to imprison them.

- - Peter Gabriel Keyes, Sacramento