PREVENTION NOT ONLY CURE

Dear Editor:

Re: 'Prevention key to fighting crystal meth abuse' in the Feb. 1
edition of the Ponoka News.

While I appreciate the important contribution of Edmonton RCMP K
Division Staff Sgt. Ian Sanderson in informing communities of the
dangers of crystal meth, his comment that, "Their chance of
recovering is pretty much zero" leaves much to be desired. As a
treatment provider here in British Columbia, your readers should be
assured that it is not hopeless for those that are already addicted
to crystal meth.

The same was said for crack cocaine back in the 90s and crack cocaine
can hardly be considered a pandemic: alcohol is still the drug of
choice for most of the clients we see.

I can only hope that Mr. Sanderson is not speaking for other Alberta
addiction service providers such as AADAC when he declares, "Because
crystal meth is so difficult for an abuser to quit, ... prevention is
the key throughout the province." There are too many in need to focus
just on prevention.

Daniel Jordan

Sunshine Coast Health Centre

Powell River, B.C.