Pubdate: Thu, 23 Sep 1999 Date: 09/23/1999 Source: Edmonton Sun (Canada) Author: Caitlin Forester Comment: Parenthetical remark by the Sun editor; headline by newshawk IN REGARD to the Sept. 8 article about Edmonton police Chief John Lindsay OK'ing marijuana for medical purposes, I find that I strongly agree. Put yourself in the patient's position. If you found yourself in severe pain and anxiety, wouldn't you do whatever it took to relieve your pain? If you were a family member of a cancer patient who was in terrible pain, wouldn't it hurt you to see them suffer? That is why I am in favour of the legalization of marijuana for medical purposes in a controlled environment. I would only be in favour of this act if there was security so no criminals could get a hold of the marijuana. The patient should have a prescription from a medical doctor in order to obtain this narcotic. Caitlin Forester (Until there is valid scientific proof of marijuana's medical value, we remain skeptical.)