ash didn't write that headline. For some reason, she also signed this letter with a pseudonym.
early 90s
I took great offense at a remark in Toby McDaniel's Jan. 5 column regarding Manuel Noriega and his pockmarks.
As a victim of chronic - that is, severe and persistent - acne from the age of 12 well into my 30s, I am appalled by society's apparent lack of awareness of or indifference to acne and the disfiguring scars that sometimes result as a legitimate and emotionally painful disease. To allow such flippant and smirky references to this disease as "pimply teenagers" (as if they are somehow less worthy of adults' attention and respect than those with clear complexions)and Mr. McDaniel's "suggestion: to use Clearasil to go unchallenged is to dismiss and entire group of people on the basis of genetic misfortune.Years ago I submitted a series of letters to Ann Landers begging her to educate the public to the fact that acne sufferers, in their own way, have enough problems inherent in the disease to contend with without being subjected to humiliating comments disguised as harmless jokes.
Finally, she sent me a form letter to the effect that this simply isn't an issue of concern to the public at large (oh no? could this be why there are no self-help groups either?) but thanks for writing. Oprah Winfrey also declined to devote one measly hour - minus commercials - to the topic.
Now I wish to address readers with this disease: you and I both know it is not trivial. To you I extend my greatest compassion and recomment checking the library for books offering practical as well as emotional support.