Former user urges children to keep off drugs

To the editor:

My name is Chris Locklear. Some of you may remember me as being the one who jumped from the burning apartment building. I want all you kids out there to pay attention to me. If it hadn't been for drugs in my life, this would never have happened. God gave me a second chance at life. Not all of you will be so lucky. I'm on my way to recovery from drugs, and I don't want any of you to have to go through what I did. Please say no. And mom and dads, talk to your kids about drugs and alcohol. Life is too important to waste. Once you start, kids, it only gets worse. I care about you even though I may not know you.

CHRIS LOCKLEAR

Cape Girardeau