J P wrote: Dear Dr. Baughman, I am a teacher in the Youth Corrections system, Ogden, Utah. My husband and I have also taken in foster kids to share our ranch/outdoor, healing lifestyle. Over the 3 years I have been connected to these programs, I have been appalled by the way the kids in state custody have been forced on legal drugs. Finally, this year I was so angered by an incident that happened with our foster child, that I have turned my anger into action. At 10, N*** was a challenge- but nothing that love, dedication, and a strict course of behavior guidance couldn't turn around. From the beginning, the program therapist said he needed medicating and I vehemently disagreed. Then one day they pulled him from school, drove him to the med doctor who saw him for 5 minutes and popped a Zoloft in him. I was so angry but wisely controlled it and decided to beat them in their game. I made strange excuses for not giving N*** his pills for awhile, and filled N*** with various vitamins. Finally I gave him a "micro C" vitamin saying it was the Zoloft, and it fooled him. I did this for about 4 months. The reports on N***'s behavior and overall progress were amazing-positive-uplifting... Thanks to the medication, of course. Finally, I told all and I was told in return that this was a serious matter and I would be penalized. N*** was removed from our home by court order, and medicated. At the same time, I began doing much internet research on the 20 or so drugs my students are routinely perscribed by the state's psych doctors. I wrote down the boys' stories, I spoke with other youth care professionals, and I have started letter writing campaigns, phone calls, press contacts, have talked with the state attorney general and continue to stoke fires under cautious legislators- to stop this abuse . And I am being put to trial. The school district has issued warnings, group home directors have written letters against my behavior, 2 psychiatrists are trying to get me in court. I don't scare easily; I don't drop the ball in mid court. Your information and anti-drug voice keeps me inspired. Help is always welcome. Thank you for caring. J P **** *. ******* ** ******* ****, Utah ***** ***-***-**** j******@********net.net
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