GOVERNMENT JOINTS

TO THE EDITOR: Regarding "Elvis' widow speaks in state about drug use"
(Associated Press news story, Sept. 23): I recently traveled to Graceland with
George McMahon, one of five U.S. citizens who can legally smoke marijuana in
every state. A recipient of the National Certificate of Heroism, McMahon
receives 300 pre-rolled joints each month through a little-known FDA program,
to treat pain, spasms and nausea.

Priscilla Presley's recent comments examining the muddled distinction between
"good" drugs and "bad" drugs, and how this lack of clarity could have impacted
Elvis Presley's life, meant a great deal to McMahon. He was sent into kidney
failure after doctors prescribed him 17 pharmaceutical substances on a daily
basis. He no longer takes any pharmaceuticals. Ten government joints a day have
given him 13 years of health.

A one-size-fits-all mentality is a counterproductive approach to drug use and
abuse.

Christopher Largen, Denton, Texas

McMahon and Largen are co-authors of "Prescription Pot: A Leading Advocate's
Heroic Battle to Legalize Medical Marijuana."