MARIJUANA RULING HURTS THE SICK

To the Editor:

The Supreme Court's decision on the medicinal use of marijuana
("Justices Say U.S. May Prohibit the Use of Medical Marijuana," front
page, June 7) is a severe blow to cancer patients and others with
debilitating diseases who desperately need a measured, alternative
form of pain relief. Simple compassion mandates that patients at the
end of their rope - or life - should be afforded the means to find
some peace from their pain.

California and eight other states recognized those needs, and the
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society joined with other advocates in
submitting an amicus brief in this case, seeking injunctive relief
from the prying interference of federal agents into this
doctor-approved treatment for patients with limited options.

That the court found a rationale for federal jurisdiction in this case
based on the broadest interpretation of interstate commerce is
questionable. The tragedy is that the Justice Department can continue
harassing sick people.

DWAYNE HOWELL

President and Chief Executive

Leukemia and Lymphoma Society

White Plains