ADDICTION IS A DISEASE

I was saddened to read the coverage of Jeb Bush's daughter, Noelle,
and her ongoing problems with drug abuse (Page 14A, Sept. 11). I was
shocked by Governor Bush's comment that his daughter needs to "accept
responsibility" and that "there are no excuses."

Perhaps Governor Bush doesn't understand that drug abuse is an
addiction. "Just say no" won't work for every child, and "no
excuse" is a parental cop out.

Statistics show that the cycle of addiction begins early. Children who
start drinking before the age of 15 are four times more likely to
become alcoholics than those who begin at 21.

Addiction isn't limited to illegal drugs and alcohol. Studies also
show that abuse of prescription drugs is on the rise.

Prevention is the key. Every dollar spent on effective education
programs can save $4 to $5 in costs for drug treatment and counseling.
The goal of the VIP League of EMQ Children & Family Services is to
spread the message of prevention, and give kids and their families the
tools they need to break the cycle of addiction before it begins.

Noelle Bush's addiction is a private family matter, not news to be
published in your paper. If the Mercury News wants to do a true public
service, please focus on educating the public on the dangers of drug
use rather than exploiting a young woman's tragic illness.

Jeannette Barney
Co-chair, VIP League
(Volunteers Inspiring People)
EMQ Children & Family Services
Saratoga