JUST STOP CALLING THEM POTHEADS

As the co-ordinator of the Mid -Island Compassion Club I watch events
closely as they relate to patient access to medical marijuana, otherwise
known as medicinal cannabis.

I've noticed the alarming frequency with which patients have had to defend
their choice of pain relief medications.

These are people who suffer through the nausea and vomiting caused by the
agonizing pain that doesn't go away, brought on by whatever disease that
afflicts them.

They are not potheads, period!

Not only do they suffer from their various symptoms, they also are forced
to suffer the indignity of explaining to everyone over and over that it's
not about getting high.

It's not about smoking doobies or burning joints, it's only about medicine.

Doctors were told by the college of physicians not to discuss marijuana
with their patients, but thank God some of them didn't listen to their orders.

I always smile when a club member says their doctor wrote them a
prescription for medical cannabis.

I applaud those medical professionals who can see beyond the reefer madness
mentality of the past.

The Canadian government hasn't gotten the message yet though.

Patients in our country are still suffering the long delays and red tape
that Health Canada heaps upon them in order to get legal medicine.

It's little wonder compassion clubs exist today.

Mark Russell, Co-ordinator, MICC, Parksville