Editor:

Editor:
Once again Canada has passed us by in the medical field. First, we are able to travel to Canada and purchase prescription medications at a much cheaper price than we can buy them in the USA. Second, Canada has widened the eligibility for medical use of marijuana so that Canadians who are terminally ill or suffering from certain chronic illnesses may grow and smoke their own marijuana.
For those who can't grow their own, the Canadian government has leased a company to grow the plants and produce pre-rolled cigarettes. Licensed patients will receive a 30 day supply at a time. The product will contain less THC, the primary ingredient, but will be safer an not require scrounging on the streets from uncanny dealers.
To the naysayers I would say I witnessed first hand the benefits of smoking marijuana on a AIDS patient.
These was a weight gain of 15 pounds as the appetite returned, no nausea so free to go out to dinner and enjoy a meal, energy to drive again and to take a walk. Small everyday things that gave hope things are getting better. Not so-- for marijuana is not a cure, but it certainly made may son's last 5 months much lazier.
Critically ill patients are not worried about the long-term effects, for most there is no long-term and Canada has made it possible for the terminally ill to make the most o their days with a safe product.
We used to fear the use of morphine and turning people into addicts. Now it is a useful tool for Hospice as they care for the dying patient. I feel this marijuana can be just as useful a tool in certain circumstances and guidelines.
Sally Walker
Youngstown