MARIJUANA OR CRUELTY

Editor-- From the times of ancient China when it was used to "undo
rheumatism", to research published this year, it has been known that
marijuana is more effective than aspirin in reducing the swelling and pain
of rheumatoid arthritis, yet doesn't cause nausea, stomach irritation or
physical addiction.

With his rheumatoid arthritis under control by prescribed medication, Will
Foster of Tulsa was concerned about dependence to narcotics. Their side
effects also interfered with his work and family. Will found that
marijuana controlled his pain better without the side effects.

The jury that sentenced Will to 93 years for growing his own medicine was
not allowed to know about his medical condition or hear from his doctor
(irrelevant under Oklahoma law). They did not know that the strongest pain
medication he can receive in prison is Tylenol. They did not know that his
feet would swell so much that his toes have yet to touch the prison floor.
They didn't know that the poor circulation in his legs could result in
amputation.

One wonders what type message is received by the three children of Will
Foster: "Don't use marijuana" ....or ... "the law is heartless and cruel"?

For a person with severe rheumatoid arthritis to be incarcerated for over a
year without medical attention is barbaric. To force a person to chose
between being a cripple or a criminal is insane. Oklahoma and its
lawmakers should be ashamed.

Michael Pearson, registered pharmacist