CLAIRE HODGES, 42, MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, LEEDS. FOUNDER OF THE ALLIANCE
FOR CANNABIS THERAPEUTICS

MS affects your whole body. It's like having flu permanently. Some people
can't hear or see, walk or control their bowels or bladder. I use a walking
stick or a wheelchair, but that's the least of my problems.

I was seeing doctors for about a year before I found out. Other people
noticed - I was working with a doctor at the time, and she noticed. She
thought it was MS but didn't want to say.

When I was first diagnosed I couldn't walk or talk. I was very ill and
wasn't get any help with the pain and spasticity. A friend who I knew
smoked cannabis offered to come round and try it with me. Straight away I
could tell it was helping. It relaxed my muscles.

I use cannabis every day - but I don't crave it. I spend about UKP30 a
week. My GP says that I count as a medium-user. He's been very supportive.

But I do think it's ridiculous that cannabis is illegal and that by doing
this, I am breaking the law.

I've asked police officers in the past why some people get prosecuted. They
said that it only happens if people complain about it.

He said that the police aren't trying to stop people from smoking cannabis
because it's no danger to anyone else or the state. They just want to keep
law and order.

I grow it in my garden and I feel pretty safe smoking it now. But I want
cannabis to be taken seriously as a medicine and I'd like the Government to
look at legalisation for medicinal purposes. It won't work for everyone,
but even if only five people find it helpful, why not?