Hello Doctor Grief; my name is Richard Hartsfield, from Alabama. I am a 61 year old veteran and I have been suffering chronic pain (90% arthritic), amongst other things. My doctors at the V.A. in Birmingham, Alabama have been looking after my needs until 16 to 20 months ago. I was told by my doctor at the V.A. that he was being mandated by his SUPERIORES that he was to start the process of taking myself along with all other Veterans that eventually practically all Vets would not be getting any narcotic pain relievers I was fortunate to have an old high school buddy who is a physician refer me to another physician who would see to my needs. I take anywhere from 150 to 170m.g. s of methadone for a long time and am afraid that ,(well I,m afraid that for some unforseeable reason, that I won t be able to get the meds I need. I am a caretaker for my 86 year old mother and it is a gut wrenching thing to watch her slowly die a little each day. To make a long storey short, I am looking ahead and will eventually need my pain meds (legally) each month without the stress of worrying if I will be able to get my meds. Respectfully, Richard Hartsfield