INNOCENT MARIJUANA

The Journal's editors are to be commended for endorsing the Rhode
Island Medical Marijuana Act ("Medical marijuana in R.I.," editorial,
May 19).

I'm a 41-year-old mother of two who was diagnosed with multiple
sclerosis 10 years ago. If I decide to use medical marijuana to treat
the muscle pain and spasticity I endure every day as a result of my
disease, I shouldn't have to fear being arrested, fined or jailed for
doing so -- especially since I have my doctor's recommendation.

Many Rhode Islanders with MS, cancer, HIV/AIDS and other diseases use
medical marijuana to alleviate their suffering. These people are not
criminals, and shouldn't be treated as such.

RHONDA O'DONNELL, R.N.

Warwick