PROTECT MORE MARIJUANA PATIENTS

As a chief petitioner for Measure 33 and as a medical cannabis nurse,
I read "Measure 33: next step or too far?" (Commentary, Sept. 28). My
friends, authors Stormy Ray and Rick Bayer, M.D., championed the
Oregon Medical Marijuana Act in 1998. Six years later, thousands of
patients are protected. Thousands of others are not.

The Oregon Medical Marijuana Act was written to pass muster with
voters. It didn't adequately address three areas: access to a
physician recommendation, a medicine supply and legal protection. Each
is compounded by federal opposition.

These shortcomings have fallen hardest on "untouchables" -- patients
whose doctors refuse to discuss or recommend cannabis therapy.

If Measure 33 passes, more marijuana patients will be protected. If it
fails, thousands of untouchables will continue to be arrested, buy
medicine on street corners and travel to clinics looking for a
sensitive doctor.

EDWARD GLICK

Monmouth