Pubdate: Tue, 11 Feb 2014
Source: Orlando Sentinel (FL)
Copyright: 2014 Jennifer Yeaman
Contact:  http://www.orlandosentinel.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/325
Note: Rarely prints out-of-state LTEs.
Author: Jennifer Yeaman

MAKE MEDICAL POT LEGAL TO RELIEVE PAIN

With mixed emotions, I describe my stand on legalizing medical
marijuana. I have witnessed the worst of what marijuana can do to
someone, and I've experienced the relief it can bring.

As a migraine sufferer for the past 35 years, I have tried every
treatment legally available. There have been about 30 medications
prescribed to treat or prevent my often-debilitating migraines. Botox,
ablation of nerves and more have provided little or no relief.
Narcotics have gone into my body regularly and could possibly result
in long-term damage.

Many migraine triggers can simply not be avoided and can result in a
sufferer spending hours or days in bed. This not only affects the one
in pain, but also family members. A person with migraines lives day to
day not knowing whether or not it will be a migraine day.

Two months ago, I experienced a severe migraine lasting three days
with no end in sight. In pain and desperation, I smoked some marijuana
for the first time in my life. After inhaling it just three times I
experienced immediate relief.

Only about four migraines have resulted in my use of marijuana for
relief over these two months. I hope the use of medicinal marijuana
will become legal for relief of chronic pain from which many suffer.
It works for me, and I believe it should be available for those who
need it.

Jennifer Yeaman Orlando 
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MAP posted-by: Jo-D