OPIATES, PAIN, AND DRUG LAWS (2 OF 2)

To the Editor:

I have an extremely painful chronic illness and have required pain
medications for about 14 years. I have never abused or misused my
medications. However, whenever I visit the doctor's office, my
motives are questioned, my personality scrutinized. I have had my
dignity and integrity completely stripped away.

If I required insulin for diabetes or statins for heart disease, I
wouldn't be treated this way. The pain has taken so much away from my
physical health, but the constant unwarranted suspicion really eats
away at my soul.

Kathy Church

Battle Ground, Wash.