The "dark side" of SDS mentioned in the title refers to a level of desperation concerning Sandstone Deprivation Syndrome, a dreaded disease afflicting certain explorers who get too close to the sandstone around Moab, Utah.

Almost all cases of SDS involve getting a fix on Moabian sandstone of normal hues: orange, red, pink, purple, beige, and ivory. In rare instances, as seen here, a person's addiction to Moabian sandstone gets so bad that he (or she) settles for a "dark fix" in a colorless environment. Most victims of SDS avoid areas like this because they do not provide the calming action required to stop their tremors. But those with an advanced case of SDS will settle for any fix.

Readers who are moved by this terrible scene are encouraged to show their concern by making a donation to the SDS Calming Center of Moab. See www www.nomoreshakes.org for more information on how you can help. Your caring contribution might help a victim avoid places like the one shown here.

Joe Tripod, who is immune to SDS, supported the
camera for this gruesome documentation.