MEDICAL POT ADVOCATE WANTS TO RUN AS NDP

One of the pioneers of medical marijuana use in Canada wants to be a
politician.

"We need to make some changes in this country and I'm tired of waiting for
other people to do it," said Alison Myrden.

Myrden, 40, is seeking the nomination for the New Democrats in the
Burlington riding, in anticipation of a federal election in the
spring. She announced her intentions to a member of the riding association
before sending out a news release of her intentions.

"I wasn't aware of her," said riding president Don Gilles. "just a week
ago, we struck a search committee to find a candidate."

Myrden has mutiple sclerosis and smokes about a dozen marijuana cigarettes
a day to relieve the pain associated with MS and Tic Douloureux, a constant
facial pain. She been smoking for nine years and recieved federal
exemption to use and grow marijuana in March 2000.

Murden says she must still buy her supply on the street since the
government doesn't provide the strain best suited to her needs.

"I am in pain 24 hours a day. I can't get out of bed without it,' Myrden sais.

She has been a member of the NDP and has worked in several campaigns. She
said she decided to run when she heard NDP leader Jack Layton say the party
supports the full legalization of marijuana in Canada.

But Myrden said there is more to her campaign than medicinal grass. She
wants a reliable health-care system, better care of the environment,
improvements to disability programs and affordable housing. She supports
same-sex marriages.

Gillies said at least two other people are considering the nomination. He
said the riding will hold a founding meeting -- because Aldershot is being
returned to Burlington riding -- early next year.