Sherry Lawrence wrote: Please read a letter that my friends son sent to her this week, this speaks volumes on how children feel on the drug Ritalin. His mother was very shocked to hear her son say the following. He is serious to prove to them Ritalin is not the answer to his failing grades. I am proud to say he is seeking alternatives with Enrich International!!

Dear mother,

I am writing to tell you about my decision to stop taking the drug Ritalin. This drug (methylphenidate) is a powerful central nervous system stimulant which is used medically to elevate awareness and control individuals with hyperactivity disorders. This drug is chemically related to the amphetamines(speed) and is a class A drug. That means that possession of this drug by a person without a prescription is a felony, punishable by up to seven years imprisonment.

I have suffered from severe side effects while taking this drug, mainly profuse diarrhea. I have also experienced a general loss of appetite and my sleep patterns have been altered.

I know that you want me to make good grades and go to college, but risking my health by bombarding my system with over stimulation is not the answer. I plan to improve my grades without the aid of drugs or cheating, which to me are synonymous. Please try not to damage my confidence in my grades by telling me that I need Ritalin to do well. I hope you found this message both entertaining and educational. Mark Schmissrauter