PAN Explains To Governors Why Smokable Cannabis Is An Important & Viable Option For Patients

Florida Governor Rick Scott

Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin

PAN's Letter to the Governors

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Dear Florida Governor Rick Scott  and Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin–

I write to you about blocking medical cannabis patients from access to smokable cannabis.  

For some patients this is the best means of ingestion for their condition, especially for patients with extreme nausea.  AIDS and cancer patients, those undergoing dialysis and others find it difficult to eat medical cannabis products like capsules or tinctures without throwing them up.  

For chronic pain patients smokable cannabis is very effective as the relief can be within minutes.  For some people, whether prescribed pills or edible cannabis, it can take hours before they feel any relief.  

Also, for patients that have a more sensitive system smoking is ideal because there is great control in the amount one smokes and how often.  Smokable cannabis has quick onset and a quick, gentle offset.  For some patients smoking a pinch is all they need, whereas eating it would incapacitate them. 

I provide this link to a news story about a UCLA study regarding smokable cannabis:

Study Finds No Cancer-Marijuana Connection

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/05/25/AR2006052501729.html?noredirect=on

Please reconsider your position regarding smokable cannabis for seriously ill patients. I thank you for your time and consideration.  

Sincerely,

Degé Coutee

President, Executive & Program Director

Patient Advocacy Network

Advocating for patients’ safe, affordable access to medical cannabis since 2006

(323) 334-5282

P.O. Box 93845, Los Angeles, CA 90093

@PAN4Compassion

www.CannabisSavesLives.org

PAN is a charitable 501(c)(3) organization

Freedom Fighter Jaime Green – In The Hospital

                                                                 Jaime Green with the late Richard Kearns

James Green, known by his friends as Jaime, is a 78 year-old cancer survivor, Navy Veteran and outspoken medical cannabis patient advocate.  Recently, the cancer has returned - this time in his kidneys and bladder - and along with a mild stroke, Jaime is now staying at a convalescent and rehab hospital in Mid-town LA.  Many LA patient advocates who have testified at City Hall know Jaime and his wisdom, strength and finesse for words.

                                                            Jaime Green testifies at Long Beach City Hall

While miraculous things do happen, Jaime has decided to forgo chemotherapy and other cancer treatments.  His energy is good and his spirit is strong.  He has asked me to share his Holiday Wish List with you:

Visitors – Jaime would love company beyond all those doctors, nurses and rehab specialists.  He is at Sunray Healthcare Center, 3210 Pico Blvd.  Visiting hours are 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. 

Food – Jaime states he needs more than they are feeding him at the hospital.  His friends tell me he has always had a large appetite and would appreciate between meal snacks.  I confirmed with him that he has no food related allergies – he says he’ll ‘eat anything” – he’s ‘not picky’ – but he really likes tacos!

Edibles – Jaime cannot smoke but edibles help immensely with pain.  Edibles that do NOT require refrigeration preferred.

Please contact PAN if you have any questions or wish to donate to the Jaime Green Care Fund.  

                                                               Jaime Green holds a sign during a DEA raid

Please keep Jaime in your thoughts and prayers.

Truly,
Degé