My first interview with Joe took place in April of 2006 at Ken Locke’s home in the Appalachians, just prior to the start of Journey for Justice 7.
Joe uses cannabis to treat his MS
Joe suffers from a type of Multiple Sclerosis. At the time of our first recording, he still did not have a firm diagnoses. He suffers from muscle spasms, general weakness, loss of muscle control and balance – all of which make it virtually impossible to walk. Joe has a power wheelchair.
Joe finds that cannabis is the only medicine that adequately treats his symptoms without the debilitating side affects of prescription drugs. It relaxes his limbs and back far more adequately than pharmaceuticals. Also, cannabis allows him to avoid anti-depressants for treating his anxiety.
Unfortunately, the high cost of black market cannabis often forces him to choose between food and relief from his symptoms.
Joe’s only relief is from Cannabis
Cannabis continues to be his oasis from pain and atrophy — when he can get it, of course. And that is increasingly becoming more difficult. The only outlet for Joe’s medicine is the street. His age and medical condition make this a difficult prospect since cannabis is illegal in North Carolina. Joe can only expect an occasional taste of the freedom and relief it can provide. For now, he must suffer silently knowing his government favors the fat pocket books of big business lobbyists to the wellbeing of the chronically ill.
To view all our Medical Cannabis Testimonies, please visit www.youtube.com/cannabispatientnet.
