Eric Twesme
220 W. 9th St.
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
(319) 266-7838 (phone)
(319) 235-8558 (pager)

October 22, 1997

Dear Carl Olson,
        I'm writing you to let you know about a legal battle I'm currently fighting over the issue of medical marijuana.
        I'm 34 years old and am diagnosed with fibromyalgia, CFIDS, asthma, and early stages of emphasema.  I use marijuana as medicine for chronic pain, nausea, and respiratory problems.  I am completely disabled and on social security and SSI.
        On May 8, 1997 my friend (who also has major health problems and uses marijuana for medicine) and I were arrested for being in possession of 1.1 grams of marijuana in Black Hawk County, Iowa.  I am not on probation or anything - this is a criminal trial.  I am attempting to use a defense of medical necessity.
        My marijuana use is documented in my medical records.  I told the police that it was medicinal.  I also listed marijuana as one of my medications when I was being booked into jail.  I go to the same doctor's office as Al Helmers, a friend of mine who I know you must be familiar with.  My doctor has become very frightened since my arrest and has refused to write a letter saying basically that if it were legal, he would prescribe it.  I've heard that there are doctors and expert witnesses who are willing to submit testimony.  I'm wondering if your organization could help me hook up with any such people?
        I have been prescribed many medications for my problems, but none of them are anywhere near as effective (not to mention as safe) as marijuana.  They simply don't work satisfactorily, the side-effects are terrible, some of them are addictive, they're poisoning my body and messing up my head.  I don't believe that any patient should be treated like this when 3 or 4 puffs of marijuana can work better without any toxicity.
        The way I see it, it's like running a red light to get your wife who is in labor to a hospital.  Yes, I saw the light, yes, I knew it was illegal, but it was necessary.
        I'm writing this because I think your organization should be aware of my case to perhaps further your cause, and also to ask for any help you can give me on a medical necessity defense.
        My trial is scheduled to begin on Oct. 28th, 1997, but is expected to be continued.

My address, etc. is:

Eric Twesme
220 W. 9th St.
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
(319) 266-7838 (phone)
(319) 235-8558 (pager)

My court-appointed lawyer is:

David Mullin
P.O. Box 5245
Cedar Rapids, IA 52406-5245
(319) 363-4851 (fax)
(319) 363-2266 (phone)

        Thank you very much for your time.  Please, let me know if we can be of any help to each other.

        Sincerely,
        Eric Twesme