FAMILIES OF HEROIN VICTIMS APPLAUDED FOR COURAGE IN SHARING STORIES

Kevin Caufield's recent series on heroin in the Illinois Valley was an
important and excellent piece of journalism. Mr. Caufield should be
congratulated for the way he helped his readers come to better understand
those who suffer and die because of a mistaken belief that "it can't happen
to me."

As importantly, I would like to acknowledge the families of the men and
women who were the subjects of the articles.

It would have been easier for them to have decided to keep such matters
private. By sharing the stories of their families with us, they have shown
courage and concern for others and have given greater meaning to the tragic
deaths of their sons and daughters.

Paul Scoma

Princeton