WAY IS CLEAR FOR MEDICAL MARIJUANA IN MASS

RECENT NEWS that the Obama administration has directed federal
authorities not to prosecute medical marijuana patients ("Debate
grows over US ruling on marijuana," Page A2, Oct. 20) has renewed my
hope that soon we will have a medical marijuana program in Massachusetts.

In the past, bills introduced at the State House were voted down.
Some politicians insisted that, although they wanted to help
suffering patients, their hands were tied because they did not want
to support a policy that would conflict with federal law. Now that
excuse doesn't exist. It's time for politicians in Massachusetts to
join the ranks of the 13 other states that have medical marijuana programs.

My 29-year-old son, Silas, died of lung cancer that had spread to his
bones in 2008. After witnessing the brutal effects of this disease, I
can't imagine why our representatives wouldn't allow patients access
to any medicine that can reduce suffering if it is recommended by their doctor.

With the landslide approval of Question 2 last fall, and the recent
announcement from the Department of Justice, I hope politicians
realize that protecting medical marijuana patients is not politically
risky. Rather, it is the right thing to do.

Lorraine Kerz

Greenfield