SUPPORT MEDICAL MARIJUANA

To the Editor:

Illinois is at its "Gettysburg" in the war on medical
marijuana.

We have one last chance at SB 1381: The Compassionate Use of Cannabis
Act.

The well-being of thousands of sick and dying, poor and rich alike,
hinge on victory. Please join me in this patriotic, historic battle
for freedom.

A few more representatives are needed to join the vast majority of
adults and religious leaders on this issue - Rep. Jack Franks being
one.

Let's not forget the root of medical marijuana prohibition. Its seed
was planted by President Nixon, against the recommendation of the
Shafer Commission.

The Shafer Commission was handpicked by Nixon to support his own
prejudicial views.

Instead, the commission wisely recommended decriminalization of
marijuana.

Nixon angrily and arrogantly did the opposite - placing marijuana on
the new "Schedule 1" category of extremely dangerous substances with
zero value. Why?

Because Nixon feared many in the anti-war movement were potheads, and
this law could have them arrested.

Today's law prohibits use of organic THC (tetrahydracannabinol), the
main therapeutic ingredient. Only synthetic, expensive and slow-acting
THC pills can be prescribed by doctors.

Passage of SB 1381 would allow adults the choice of growing marijuana
for sick citizens of Illinois.

Our wounded and disabled veterans would benefit. Marijuana is
recognized for relieving post-traumatic stress disorder, pain and nausea.

Gettysburg, July 1863, was the turning point in the Great Civil War.
Help make January 2011 the turning point when freedom, common sense
and compassion returns to Illinois.

Gary Christ

Crystal Lake