FEDERAL BONG HIT

Josh Indar cites federal claims that "even small amounts of marijuana are
illegal to possess, grow, or sell" ["Weed win," Newslines, Dec. 18]. Perhaps
he is unaware the U.S. government has cultivated and distributed medical
cannabis cigarettes to a select group of patients, through a little-known
program called Investigational New Drug, in existence since 1978. The feds
use cannabis to effectively treat symptoms related to glaucoma, bone tumors,
nail patella syndrome and multiple sclerosis.

This should come as no surprise when considering the rapidly accumulating
empirical and clinical research data from around the world. These studies
indicate that cannabis can provide symptomatic treatment for AIDS,
Alzheimer's and neuropathic disorders. The research is so convincing that
Bayer Corp. is developing a sublingual cannabis inhaler, expected to be made
available to patients in the United Kingdom next year.

Cannabis has medical value. As more Americans become aware of this fact, our
laws will inevitably change to reflect scientific reality. Then prosecutors
can focus on real criminals rather than sick and dying people who use an
herb with their doctor's recommendation.

To quote Robert Randall, the first recipient of federal marijuana, "History
indicates the most trivial of facts can implode the most powerful dogma."

Christopher Largen
Co-Author Prescription Pot
Denton, Texas