Kratom saved my life. I have chronic, painful neuralgia, and I developed anxiety and depression trying to find relief, and doctors who would take me seriously. I was on 6 medications at one point, and was only finding about 50% relief, but was suffering dozens of side-effects. I was a non-functioning member of society--I couldn't work, couldn't enjoy my hobbies, in short, I couldn't participate in life. I was very close to calling it quits, and then I discovered kratom. I immediately found almost total relief from all my problems, and was able to stop all the medications that were mostly bringing me misery. I now have a beautiful family, am invested in my community, and have a wonderful job. I couldn't have imagined that 10 years ago. Kratom saved my life. Please do the research; it is not a schedule 1 substance; it helps people to reclaim their lives and become functioning members of society again; it is far, far less harmful than most prescription medications. Please don't make me into a criminal for taking control of my life, and finding relief from chronic illness. Please do the right thing and do not make kratom a schedule 1 substance.

Thank you.