(OT) Limbaugh admits addiction
Thanks Chuck.
"Gould 0738" wrote in message
...
Statement by Rush Limbaugh
(AP) - Conservative commentator Rush Limbaugh told his radio audience Friday
that he is addicted to painkillers and will enter rehab:
''You know I have always tried to be honest with you and open about my life. So
I need to tell you today that part of what you have heard and read is correct.
I am addicted to prescription pain medication.
I first started taking prescription painkillers some years ago when my doctor
prescribed them to treat post surgical pain following spinal surgery.
Unfortunately, the surgery was unsuccessful and I continued to have severe pain
in my lower back and also in my neck due to herniated discs. I am still
experiencing that pain. Rather than opt for additional surgery for these
conditions, I chose to treat the pain with prescribed medication. This
medication turned out to be highly addictive.
Over the past several years I have tried to break my dependence on pain pills
and, in fact, twice checked myself into medical facilities in an attempt to do
so. I have recently agreed with my physician about the next steps.
Immediately following this broadcast, I am checking myself into a treatment
center for the next 30 days to once and for all break the hold this highly
addictive medication has on me. The show will continue during this time, of
course, with an array of guest hosts you have come to know and respect.
I am not making any excuses. You know, over the years athletes and celebrities
have emerged from treatment centers to great fanfare and praise for conquering
great demons.
They are said to be great role models and examples for others. Well, I am no
role model. I refuse to let anyone think I am doing something great here, when
there are people you never hear about, who face long odds and never resort to
such escapes.
They are the role models. I am no victim and do not portray myself as such. I
take full responsibility for my problem.
At the present time, the authorities are conducting an investigation, and I
have been asked to limit my public comments until this investigation is
complete. So I will only say that the stories you have read and heard contain
inaccuracies and distortions, which I will clear up when I am free to speak
about them.
I deeply appreciate all your support over this last tumultuous week. It has
sustained me. I ask now for your prayers. I look forward to resuming our
excursion into broadcast excellence together.''
10-10-03 15:02 EDT
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