I, too would like to throw in my two pennies' worth and ask: why do you think the article is poorly written? It's not that awful, is it? I noticed a few spelling errors and one or two sins against grammar, but other than that the writing was just very direct, unpretentious, and honest. No unnecessary padding or wordiness either.

The only reason I ask is that I, although I'm no novellist myself, I like to believe I can recognise a well-written article. But then again, perhaps my judgement really isn't all that sharp -- it is possible. No sarcasm intended here, I really could be wrong!

Now, on the issue of content: we simply need more articles like it, in more publications.

Not even that strongly in favour of OPs, this is a refreshing change from the usual war-on-drugs inspired tripe that's usually shoved down our throats. At least the article doesn't hysterically claim that any 12 year-old can buy OxyContin online with a credit card. (if that were true, I might need to hang out with more 12 year-olds -- uh, no scrap that).

I really wish we could read more "fair and balanced" (little joke there) reporting on the US population's need for medications, that, for whatever reason, cannot be obtained from their doctors. It's my opinion, that many doctors have moral qualms about prescribing pain relievers, even if they believe the pain is real.

If only Time, Newsweek, US News, and the three major cable news channels could consider both sides of the issue, then maybe us pain patients can eventually gain a foothold in the struggle towards awareness of our needs by media, lawmakers, and of course, our doctors.

I think, to that end, we should do as much as we can, contribute our own articles, and write our opinions to the editors of newspapers news magazines. And join the march in April of course, and make lots of noise. It'd be nice if we could get the attention of the media and the politicians.