PROGRAMS CAN SPARE LIVES OF TROUBLED DRUG ADDICTS

In a May 4 letter, Conrad Kaminski calls needle exchange programs
morally bankrupt.

Yes, the use of heroin is illegal. However, people who become addicted
often have serious personal problems and need our help, love and
understanding to overcome their dependency and become productive
members of society again.

I don't view these people as criminals -- they are usually harming
only themselves. My sister was a wonderful, kind person, but she had a
rough period in her life when she turned to drugs.

She finally straightened herself out and was clean for many years
before she died of AIDS. If only there had been needle exchange or
other programs to help her during that period in her life.

It is morally bankrupt to deny fragile people such as my sister
programs that could spare their lives and give them time to straighten
out.