RECOVERING ADDICTS SIMPLY ILL

This is in regards to the Talbot House ("Talbot House not welcomed by
neighbors," Feb. 12 Ozarks section).

People are not understanding that these people aren't criminals. They are
individuals that have an illness. It's an illness that some need help in
the transition back into society.

They are more of a threat to themselves than others. I just can't stress
enough that they are not a threat to the neighborhood. Yes, there are some
individuals who are going to make a blemish on the concept, but they are no
more of a threat than some of the individuals that are in the nursing home
next door.

I think personally it's fantastic. I've visited the facility as a guest and
see the potential of it being an asset to our community.

People, wake up. This is an illness and those with it have a hard time
moving back into life. Don't pull the rug out from under them.

Sandra Baker, Springfield