What do  you think Queen Elizabeth 1 did when she had her period & cramps?
Did she Reach for the Tylenol?  Which has NOW been proven linked to  several deaths.  
​No, she 'called' for  cannabis instead. FACT.   
Chances are she did not smoke it but drank it in a tea... much like I do at bedtime.
I still wake up easily if I hear any noise & I'm always refreshed  in the morning with no  'hang over'.  

Queen Elizabeth 1 was impressive as is this  current Queen,  it is not a job I would want - even with the benefits. Cannabis therefore, the  'QUEEN of plants'  for assisting in easing the body & brain is far from dead.
​
Long live the Queen!!!

Who will it be next?

Have faith
<><
​ xox

 And a better day to stay OFF of FB.
I'm tired today,  sore and grumpy...but I'm still drawing.
Even grumpy I can draw- I've finally learned how to USE it correctly, IMO... lol 
Yesterday ,I had a lump removed from the back of my neck, under the approximate incision from my last surgery, it steadily grew and became sore, also - when my twitch was/is pulling  and I turned my head, I kept getting the feeling of it 'being caught' and it would hurt, I don't know from what pushing on what. Anyhow I visited a Dr. and explained and asked, the next day I was booked for surgery, the lump removed.

What an experience that was... I lay on my front and the Dr. put in a local anesthetic - BUT he was teaching a new Dr. so every step was discussed. I found myself being caught between thinking 'that sounds interesting' to 'shut the fuck up!' Hahahaha!  
BUT more  on the side of that is interesting. I could hear the noises and feel him putting pressure and talking about the actual lump, how it was in place not normal for a cyst, and he was glad (me too!) it was not deep as he was between the nerves.  When he was finished he sat me up, told her to look at my face  & asked me to tell her about my TN.   I did.  
It seems most Dr.s I meet now are very interested about my condition. You can see just by looking at my face.  I want to share - help, educate so that when they meet someone they will understand - take the time to diagnose correctly. I ALSO told them of Cannabis. I do every opportunity,  for me and I mentioned how it helps Storm.  
I am sore but I had/have no pain killers.  Nor did I ask for any, I have one.
Storm had a joint ready, I medicated and have been fine - other than expected - a bit of pain is expected.  A different pain - and really - nothing, compared to what I normally deal with anyway.
No reason to be popping addictive pain pills.
​Thank God, I have cannabis , again.
This a.m. I have been at it, more than usual - and now I'm staying off of FB, because I know I'm grumpy..  and I have drawing to do.
A Christmas drawing that I feel is a very important message.  
Not a pleasant message but one true for most. 

Once I start, put on my new CD my friend Harold made ;), pull over Peep so he can serenade to me as well. He likes this song 'Do you?'  me too.. lol   I have my tea, my girls & my paint and pencils! It's going to be a great day.  
All my stuff is over until March the 4th.
Then I learn of results, the MRI's discuss the lump in my brain, TN and hemi-facial spasm. Until then I'm putting it out of mind! I will be putting up my tree this weekend and look forward to Christmas with those I love.
Making custom ornaments, hee hee hee...

What will you create today?
Have Faith 
xox <><

A toon I did recently, true. no time to color ;)
A 'classic look' we shall call it! lol

It is father's day and Storm has taken his dad fishing for the weekend and I'm thrilled. He is old enough - if he wants to share events of his fathers day with his dad, he will.  Storm and Norm have a good relationship already. All  the 'boat bonding' has helped! ;) 
 My dad is gone, I think of him off and on.. I pray fathers day is not too hard on others on my mind and in my heart, who no longer have their dad with them.  
It is just another day. If you have been blessed by a good dad - they are with you always.

It's just after 11 and it's not been a good day, a reminder of why I'm ready to share.
It's overcast, I've been up since 5 and it's taken me this long to  fell good enough to blog. Physically.  Blogging takes thought and effort - especially on the more difficult days. 
Let alone a difficult blog.  

The video I posted was one recorded while at my desk drawing.  Although I have constant twitching/zapping and mini jolts of pain,  I have added attacks that  come at any and all times (except sleeping).  Recently I was told we can't find anyone to help.  I can tell you hearing it' and thinking it' are  different things and although I thought I was prepared - I guess I was not and the thought of living like this  everyday became suddenly daunting again.  If I let the idea linger in my mind for any time tears flow.  

Try to take anything you like to do - cooking, drawing, reading and take a pencil and jab yourself in the head (causing your eye to constantly shut closed) every few seconds (*several times a second) and continue your task.  5 years...
Now add to that the added  sessions where you  heart races, your head pounds, your brain can't seem to do exactly what it was doing so carelessly only seconds before, you get a sharp stabbing pain that goes from the top of your head to your heart - Like you've been impaled 
suddenly and it repeats, quickly, several times over.   My face aches so much I have wondered if this is what done cancer must feel like ;( .  It  makes me stop & hope I make it out the other side. EVERY time. That alone messes with my mind daily.

Let alone how it feels- LOL HOW t looks? PLEASE - when Tyra banks is being hailed because she appeared without make-up -  Finally! - But PLEASE! Big deal Tyra.  When in attack, I can't swallow my food, I can't chew, I drool not to mention one side of my face is contorted to one side.  Pain is obvious.  Make - up.  I could care less bout make-up.

What do I do? Do I take serious narcotics - that  will just numb me down, Ive tried pain pills - during this - the odd one here and there and all they do is take me somewhere I DO NOT want to be... depressed on the sofa.  Pills only add to my balance issues,  after reading more on the woman who was knows as a 'wobbler', it worried me -  when I'm walking mid attack I too have that exact sensation - of wobbling in my head and you see it in my balance - I start to stagger. I never new the other condition existed.  It WAS caused by a medication she had been prescribed.  I think about this all the time since doing some research and learning about Tardive Dyskinesia:
https://www.power2u.org/articles/selfhelp/tardive.html


Heres the thing... did you know there are medications that have serious side effects.
Not everything works the same for everyone and do you want to be a statistic?
If not for my son, husband and few who show me love and support, listen and share this madness the past few years - I don't think I would still be here. 
I would not wish this on any other human.  READ SIDE EFFECTS OF ALL MEDICATION
Trigenial neuralgia is on the increase. You tell me why? 
The more I read - the more I will stick to CANNABIS.

*ADD stress to this mix and  look like I am having a stroke.  ;( My pain  and exhaustion overwhelm, I go from chair, to bed to gazebo mode. Usually it takes 2 days just to function again. By function I mean  draw, do dishes, straighten up - not getting high and having party.  

Rona Ambrose, Health Canada,  Steven Harper, Peter Van Loan  turning Canadians into terrorists against each other with their lies, propaganda and  bulling well thats just the 'cream of the crop'.  <Simple. All, literally make me sick to my stomach, as I read about little baby girls dying in Canada., while her mom fought  to access her  cannabis for her seizures.
Judging people on what they choose to help them heal!?  Forcing Canadians no other alternatives but pills, PROVEN to hurt  and even kill.  

Here is the link of what I am dealing with. 
https://vimeo.com/131096980?utm_source=email&utm_medium=clip-transcode_complete-finished-20120100&utm_campaign=7701&email_id=Y2xpcF90cmFuc2NvZGVkfGYwNGJlNDRmNTI2ZmI2NTE5ZGEwZGYzNDJhYWFlM2JkMjAzfDQxMTkzNzU4fDE0MzQ2MzkyNzB8NzcwMQ%3D%3D

 If you know of anyone that it might help - please share.  I believe - Cannabis keeps me going. It keeps me creative and helps me focus on all that can be good.  I don't wan't or need anyones pity. I hope to bring awareness.  I do ask for continued prayers and  good vibes.  I get so emotional after each attack, I have also learned how to ride them out as calmly as possible-  I don't like to  worry  my guys all the time.  I don't know,  would help everyone if I did what my body wants  to do -  hold onto my head and scream, curl up into a ball until it's over? I don't think so.  

All I can do is keep learning what I love, painting, drawing & creating  - it is how I change my brain.  It is how I excite my brain.  Focus on making fun/beautiful items instead of dwelling on ANYthing negative. I am walking better! Poppy has accomplished that! She loves to walk & lead me- she is so well behaved and I'm proud to take her out. For now - that is enough.

Tomorrow it is back to painting and life. 
xox  Have faith  <><

It's time. 
A better understanding is needed. 
Men are not mind readers & the majority of people do NOT 'get it'. until you explain it to them.  

For the past 6 years I have suffered with a twitch.. in my head, pretty much constant that progressed & strengthened into such pain, I could not walk or focus. I had surgery and it was not  a complete success. It did remove a ‘Blockage sensation’ in the front of my head I had.  It never went away and in time had  steadily increased in frequency and 
in pain. It is 10:30 a.m. and I’m ready for my nap. I am up, usually at 4... it takes me a while to get medicated and calm my twitch. It is so strong in the a.m.  I can be hungry and the pain goes right to the pit of my stomach, the thought of food suddenly has me gagging.

I try to read. I TRY because it is physically maddening to read with a constant twitch. TRY it. FOR 6 years. It is a LEARNED habit, I cherish.  I also read something that will ‘force’ me to start my day in a positive light. It is too easy to be dragged into darkness.
You have to kick at the darkness until it bleeds daylight. 
I have a friend Mona who reminds me of that. 

‘By 10a.m.  most days I choose- Cry OR  DO  something. 
Not just do.. BE creative. 

Walking is something I MUST focus on most times, I feel like I have a weight in my head wobbling the rest of my body.  When being constantly zapped- what do you do ? 
Learn to live through it &  Thank God for each time you come out the other side. 

I don’t share any of this for PITY. Pity is not what I need. 
I need loving vibes sent. Understanding for me and others like me. 
I have Trigeminal Neuralgia & some. 
I have on average, on a good day 5 major attacks an hour. 
I have a very visual case. I find it difficult also on levels socially.  
Photos taken this a.m. shared. *Hard to do. Even if just in a blog.

People can see my pain. It makes some uncomfortable. It makes me uncomfortable.  
I must force myself out socially. BUT my home is different. IT IS my comfort zone that I NEED badly. I invite only those who I know come with love and nothing else. 
I am very selective of who I even invite for a coffee. 

The woman from the TN Support group, Kathy has been very supportive to me personally. She responds to my e mail, some nice, some angry -(I figure if she can’t FU*KING understand, who will?) She does not judge and encourages me - she also pointed out that  ‘I seem to be ashamed of my disease.’  
I though when I read that: That’s BULLSHIT! 
She was right. I am ashamed. I have no control. ;( 

The world world can see, I have lost control of my own face.  My mind is zapping me 24/7 and it hurts and I can’t stop it.  Dr.s can’t either. Not without a lot of GUESSING.
I sometimes think THANK GOD - they cannot see the pain that comes with. 

I don’t want Pity! I want understanding! 
When I am stressed and the blood starts to race a bit faster- I can start to resemble, as if I am having a stroke. I also can NOT bend over all the time for the same reason.
It triggers stronger attacks and NO thank you! I have enough in a day.

*IF I'm having a PHONE conversation - say with the government - ( LOL - usual bullshit) and I start to get upset - as they an cause you to do - it can trigger an attack,  I slur my words and my face cramps and HURTS. They can’t 'hear' this on the phone and when I go quiet, I’ve even had people who appear to lose patience! 

I AM in the process of finding out how to get my communications in writing! WHY NOT? 
YOU know why - because then when they SCREW UP, you have a record! 

Recently  the government screwed up- after MONTHS of running around and passing the buck- ADDING UNNECESSARY stress to our lives -It was NOT until AFTER I was FORCED  to send a threatening letter - assuring I would be happy to involve Dr.s, Lawyers and the PRESS  - we did get a phone call and APOLOGY and admitting numerous mistakes were made! Amazingly someone was READY to actually listen.  It is draining and I know we are not alone! Speak to anyone and you hear the same stories. 
How many do not have even the energy to argue. Too many.
There services are in place to help us? I find it hard to believe. 

I am so very tired of it. I refuse to be ‘judged’ by anyone WHO does not know and refuses to KNOW OR LISTEN!  
I AM DONE. I will not apologize for this! I will NOT be ashamed and I will educate!
IF I can  -  and I CAN. 
Do I wish I was NOT the one to be educating you on this!? 
YES!!  I AM. Here, Literally the face  of pain. 

I do get breaks, Naps do help. Positive People, Vibes, books, shows.. all help.
Why would anyone want it any other way?   If we lose it  quick, we apologize quick in this house and move on. I thank God for my guys and their patience & LOVE they provide me with every hour of every day.  If I ask. ;) 

Men ARE NOT mind readers. 
A little understanding from strangers - is that too much to ask? 
DO NOT judge UNLESS you know - and even then. Why bother. 
IF you don’t  have anything nice to say - don’t say it. 
DON’T tolerate it either. 

Everything for a reason.  I am learning to embrace all that life gives - as long as I remind myself I am never alone, I’m going to be o.k.   
I’m never alone. ;) I don’t mean the dogs...  lol 

The world can see, I have lost control of my own face.
But they can’t see, I have not lost control of my faith. 

xox
<><   
Have Faith 

I Love to READ.
It is a luxury I have experienced 'not' being able to use the past few years, off and on.
A GIFT I have decided, so I read every morning. 
Something positive. 
Set the mood for the right mind.  
I just finished and throughly enjoyed The Shoe makers Wife. 
Thanks Carm! xox I love a good book referral! 

I am currently reading A New Earth  By Eckhart Tolle.   ;) 
My mind has to read it over a couple of times at times! LOL  
I Am inspired and enjoying. 
Clearly, this Laughing Buddha appeared after reading it yesterday morning. 
As I was painting it I kept thinking of my friend Jodie.
She has helped me...    become conscious.  

I wish you could see it in person. I can not scan it 'exactly'.
It has special Gold paint that you see in the fire that rises up to the stars.
And the sky looks funky here - "oh, bother..."  lol
I don't care and neither will Jodie. 

The quote.. is true. In my opinion.  ;) 
Amen.

Have Faith <>< 

Oh,  I read FLUFF!!  
LOL My friend Cathy wonders how we can be friend with the 'stuff' that I tell her I read- much of it for 'work/inspirtion' can be from political to plant life.  BUT in BETWEEN I read Fluff!!  My next is a book from Cathy about the beach and love..  sounds like good stuff fluff to me.

Simple. Research.
I only had to research the side effects of the most common OXY. 
I do not understand why someone would NOT try Cannabis first.
Yes I do.
Lies and lack of education on the subject.
I believe Cannabis should be someone's first choice as it IS safer than most if not all  options available. 
I know one of the main reasons my body needs Cannabis is nausea. 

Last night I went to bed in tears. Feeling completely frustrated and overwhelmed.

I had another visit with the neurologist and after the usually questions and concerns, I asked him if he actually had a diagnoses, after talking about Hemi facial spasm and Trigeminal neuralgia, the 5th and 7th nerve...  No.  
 They cannot understand why I am having what I am and the pain associated with it.

 I feel when I tell them how bad it is - it is not that they don’t believe - CLEARLY there is something going on, but I think they don’t ‘get the severity’ of it? I wonder is it because I am not in the office sobbing?  Or that I don’t lie around all day feeling sorry for myself? 
I can tell you, I DO feel like doing that. 
 I fought off tears several times in his office yesterday.  IT is much harder to try to remain positive and busy and hopeful.   

After the last surgery,  I do feel better BUT whatever is going on is still going on and every day It MAKES me very aware that It can all be gone in an instant. I struggle with this reminder - as much as I AM REALLY grateful the new found appreciation and determination.. everyday thinking my brain is going to explode is exhausting.  
These constant electrical zaps  leave me feeling  ‘fizzled” 
My attack last week left me exhausted for 2 days.  
I still have them constantly.. with a “doozie’ every now and then making an appearance.
Usually one a day. ;(

In his opinion, it is not getting better (mine too - it’s going on 4 YEARS slowly escalating)
He feels more surgery is the only opinion. The first not a complete success (it was in the fact that I’m still here! :)  NOT knowing exactly what they are going in for...  has me not to keen on the whole idea again - recovery itself seems daunting. Been there done that and in NO hurry to do it again.
I am frightened.

I need to take a break and think. 
I wondered about sharing this... it’s time. My hand forced by someone on FB.  This is my life at the moment and for what ever reason this is where I am meant to be. Happy or not. 

I had a lesson last week on FB when someone was PISSED at me. Angry because I have not been responding to his messages or posts.  First let me tell you having over 500o people on FB has it down falls, like messages every time you log on, I am constantly added to groups, events and my messages are never fewer than 50 every time I log on. Hard to keep up with for anyone, never mind someone who is also trying to work, be a mom, cartoonist, wife and suffers from some crazy brain thing.
I then was angry with him and asked him if he was aware I had brain surgery and have still been dealing with serious issues. No he was not. 
No he does not bother to read my post, blogs etc only pissed that I did not share his website and his goings on.  Yes, he apologized.                        

So here it is. I am not well. I have not been well for a while. I have been sicker than I have let on to most but a few are very aware of what has been going on. On top of all this I deal with other stuff, like the constant concern and battle over my sons medicine. Cannabis.
Stress added to the mixture - not good BUT unavoidable.
 A growing concern with changes expected in the near future, no thanks to Health Canada. 

I have hoped people would focus on my work and not my health and it appears to have worked out ;-)  I can’t get mad for the lack of others understanding, awareness or even compassion at times. It says more about them than it will ever say about me. Simple.

I will end by saying that when I woke up today the first thing I did was thank God for opening my eyes and for the fact that I got out of bed.
I will NOT spend the day in bed crying, I will draw, spend the day with the girls (Storm is camping) I will celebrate every meal I am blessed with and every conversation I have. I will continue to hope I get better.  I will have faith that everything does happen for a reason. All of this BTW has made me a better person. 
 I will also continue to use my cannabis as it numbs the pain and gives me a break if only for minutes at a time. I am grateful for it. It keeps me positive! 

So why share? In hope that if ONLY one person stops and thinks before they make assumptions, judge or even aggravate -  do you really know what each other is dealing with? How about we first ask ourselves that before we jump on some ones back as to why we are NOT the focus of THEIR attention. 

Compassion and LOVE.
I am stronger today than I was last night. 

I know why I am drawing and now I know why a few years ago we called my strip:
Cultivating Compassion.
GROW LOVE.     

xox <><

Some will see this toon and think

Today's Guest Blog is from Jeff, a young man that friended me on FB.  I talk to many people about Crones, from what I have learned, it is serious discomfort and often situations where life is 'interrupted' because of it.  I was so thrilled when I got Jeff's e mail and more so the fact that he is 26 and gets it! He is looking after his health and his own body -and he helped educate his Dr.s.
Speak up! It is your health, I think Jeff is lucky - he appears to have figured out early, how to do what is best for his body.. too many of us don't 'get that' until much later and too much damage done. 


I started using cannabis in grade 9.
 Then for the next few years I was your average 'rebellious' pothead teenager, or so I thought. Also around the beginning of high school I began having a lot of issues with my tummy. Okay, that is an understatement; SHIT was bad and getting worse! After telling my family doctor three times that I was often in pain and getting bouts of bloody diarrhea, he decided I should see a specialist. 
My first appointment with the specialist I was told I probably had crohn’s disease. 
After a bunch of tests no person should have to go though, it was confirmed I had a severe case of crohn’s. The next couple years I did a lot of research and tried many different medications to control my symptoms.

 Around the time I was diagnosed with crohn’s, marijuana for medical issues seemed to be in the news more, I saw AIDS and cancer patients getting relief from many of the same symptoms I was suffering from.  After googling ‘marijuana & crohns’, I found Michelle Rainey (R.I.P). Her website really inspired me to view the cannabis I had been smoking for years as the medicine it truly is. I realized for many years I had been mainly smoking it before eating or when I felt 'crappy' and would conserve it better than most teens. 
After that realization I spoke to my family doctor on many occasions and three gastrointestinal specialists about the Health Canada medical marijuana access program (MMAR), they all had similar opinions that cannabis has no medical value for my condition. 

How could I be denied the only thing that brings some relief from terrible symptoms caused by this nasty disease? I did eventually find a specialist who at the time was only seeing patients in similar situations to sign their MMAR paperwork. Then after two years of 'monitored' use my family doctor finally agreed with me enough to start signing my yearly renewals. Even with my MMAR I still don’t have reasonable access to medicine.
 I am glad to have a doctor that will sign, but he still doesn’t understand that I need much more than 3 grams per day to be able to make strong enough extracts to effectively control my disease, and then the issue of MMAR not allowing those extracts.  Until very recently I have not been able to grow myself because I rent and can’t find a grower wanting to grow for a small prescription. As of right now (03/03) I am waiting on my first production license(PPL), but I am stuck trying to decide if it’s worth setting up a grow now because Health Canada is taking away PPL’s on April 2014. Unfortunately, right now cannabis is the only thing keeping me able to work, yet a large portion my income is going to cannabis. 

 The main symptoms I treat with cannabis are abdominal cramping, nausea, diarrhea and low appetite.  There has been many times where cramping and diarrhea have been so extremely painful, and then just a couple of puffs will sooth my stomach to the point I am able to eat and continue living.   In addition to the symptoms cannabis helps, I also find it very useful in minimizing some of the side effects of many prescription drugs I have been on.  When I was on Remicade, I would get extremely stiff and sore joints and muscles after every injection for about 2-3 days, cannabis would help reduce the pain to get me though those days.  At the end of last year I decided to stop taking Remicade because it was only giving me a couple weeks of partial relief every two months, and has way too many potential side effects that I am terrified of. Although I may not be in complete remission yet, my disease is fairly well controlled with cannabis alone.  I am now taking a small dose of RSO every night, and use medibles during the day and vaporize or smoke for immediate relief as needed. 

Recently after meeting a few cannabis activists that were touring from the west coast, I felt driven to get more involved. Now I am helping to arrange more cannabis friendly events and protests around my hometown, Kitchener. My dream is to one day be more involved in medical cannabis by owning or working for a local compassion club or vapor cafe.   I am constantly meeting many great people in the ‘cannabis community’ and I am genuinely proud to be involved in it.   I hope one day everyone who needs cannabis has access to it.

 Jeff 

https://www.facebook.com/pot.forpain 
 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crohn's_disease -General info about Crohn’s disease
http://www.michellerainey.com/     >  Michelle Rainey’s website

I received a letter recently from this gentleman asking if I could help him, he is a patient & grower looking for a couple patients to also grow for. He asked me to refer some people to him.                      I explained that because of my knowledge from the past few years... I do not hook up patients with growers. I wish I could!   
Why don't I? 
Simply because I do know know this person- personally, he seems like a really nice man and we can relate to what he is dealing with, but - I am also aware of all that can and does go wrong with growing. I have heard the stories and witnessed the results.  
If I said - let this guy grow for you, and for what ever reason his crop was not successful (due to bugs, mold, many things can lead to a bad crop- sometimes out of control of the grower) and the grower could not provide the medicine the patient needed,  I would feel terrible!  Recently, I heard of a grower who could not provide all the meds. to a patient because he needed to sell some for his vacation!!   WTF?
I was very angry when I heard this. That is bullshit. I told my friend to SPEAK up! 
He is a very nice, easy going, laid back person (one of my favorite people ;-) 
It appears to me his grower is taking advantage of his good nature. That is not right.

SO, I will not refer any growers, to bad..  I really like most people I know that grow,
I have only met a handful that I would not trust myself, for my own reasons.  
YOU have to make the decision yourself!  IT IS your medicine!  Be aware.

THERE are many GREAT growers, providers who do help and keep their patients happy and medicated. I even know of a few who go above and beyond, one in particular provides medicine and 'GIVES' Cannabutter (made with trim) also so they might try baking their medicine.  AWESOME! 
Get to know your grower! Ask questions - what if? 

 With that being said, I can relate to this gentleman and his plea and he wants to help others and himself.  I hope that he does find a couple of patients and is able to provide for them. I hope he lives up to his promises because- he is dealing with peoples lives. 
I hope this from all growers.  Thank You to Mark for sharing his story below!  
Contact him if you need a grower and come to your own conclusion.  ♥


Do Your Best, Never Quit, Have Fun

I went blind and almost died from the fight or flight response to pain, the year was 2000 and I had a ten year old son and an eight year old daughter. I am still with my wife of almost 25 years, our son has graduated Waterloo Engineering and now Teachers College, and our daughter who was Student Council President and graduated with honours is now a hairstylist. This is a story of love, hope and pain.

My diagnosis, previously asymptomatic congenital spondylilolisthesis with insitu articulation and 5% of all caucasians are afflicted. I was also post-operatively diagnosed with spina bifida occulta and seven years later with failed back surgery. What about our children! If you are born with the first disc above your tailbone incompletely formed and connected to your tailbone when this breaks you and your immediate family live in shame.

It is a general school of thought amongst the medical community that if the patient will not be able to return previous employment the most cost effective management is pain control until death. This will normally occur within 5 years. SEE THE BREAKING SPINE www.iofbonehealth.org/breaking-spine-report-2010

 So by day I did my best to be Dad; I worked as much as possible and when I didn’t work I volounteered at the kids’ school. I also coached soccer and hockey as well as furthered my education. During the night I would and still do, pull a Casper, walking and moaning. After my back surgery my doctor of fifteen years asked me,  “Please do not sue me Mark.” and I answered, in my naiveté, “Oh no that’s not what I am about, I just want you to be a good family doctor for my family.”.  Well, that didn’t last long. Two years later when my son fainted at work and doctors at an unnamed hospital tried to illegally hook him on anti-seizure medication my beloved doctor refused to help. This meant that my son, to whom we gave an insured vehicle, lost his driver’s license and was no longer able to be the designated driver for his university friends.

The only meds I take are medicinal cannabis; most often sativa during the day and indica at night. Sativa will speed you up and because it has amazing effects on neural systems i.e. pain, ms, seizures, encourages the very important minor accomplishments such as doing the dishes or cutting the lawn. These minor accomplishments are the building blocks of mental health. Being useful leads to earned pride.  At a time when I was legally blind, very crippled and all I could accomplish was the dishes, as it took me all day up and down, I felt a need to understand, accept and not give in to depression.
 Do Your Best, Never Quit, Have Fun was born. While the sativa cannabis helps you manage your pain and push yourself,  when you are finished and it is time to relax you can consume indica strains. These indica strains can be very heavy and in conjunction with an overall plan will overcome the fight or flight response. In my case I exercise regularly to burn off norepenephrine and epipenephrine, otherwise known as cortisol.

 I learned, Do your best, Never Quit, Have Fun. Basically we all need to fit our skins and accept others as they or their circumstances shape their realities.  I have spent time in the classroom on both sides of the desk. I taught Consumers Gas technicians refrigeration and air conditioning. I did this in Toronto and St. Catharines. I also have the hours in the field and am a licensed; refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic, sheet metal worker and gas fitter 2, I also have a small commercial air system design license.                   

I am a user of medicinal marijuanas and grow for myself as well as one patient. You can see an article about me at northumberlandtoday.com, it was written by Valerie MacDonald and published January 17, 2013.  Thank you Valerie.
I am looking for two more patients who are Health Canada licensed to possess and consume between five and ten grams of marijuana per day. Hopefully we can get set-up in time to be grandfathered in as a going concern.
Thank you Georgia!
Mark


You can contact Mark @ : [email protected]

by:Jane Grey

Cannabis. To some, it’s medicine, or a drug, or a way to relax. To others, they are indifferent, skeptical about it’s use, or choose not to believe a natural plant that does no harm could do so much good. I used to be one of the skeptics. 

    

Two years ago, my husband was diagnosed with a terminal form of cancer called Merkel Cell Carcinoma found at Stage 4 in his lymph nodes. Merkel Cell Carcinoma is a rare and fast-growing form of skin cancer that only 1000 people get diagnosed with in North America per year. Doctors know very little about this form of cancer. Normally, a patient's prognosis is grim because 90% of people diagnosed with Merkel Cell Carcinoma are over the age of 60 and are too ill or old to go through extensive chemotherapy or radiation treatment to slow down the rapid growth of Merkel Cell Carcinoma. My husband at the time was only 35 when he received his diagnosis and was expected to only live 3 months.

   

After several chemotherapy treatments his condition worsened, I suggested he try cannabis in hopes it would help him. He was skeptical it would be beneficial, but knew it was no worse than his monthly chemotherapy and medications since I did not have to wear a haz-mat suit to hand him a joint. He found cannabis not only helped pre-existing back pain, but eliminated nausea for up to 4 hours, gave him energy, appetite, helped his depression caused by his diagnosis and was able to re-gain some independence again. I saw cannabis take a man off his death bed quicker than he was put there. Though, cannabis could not help him with recovering between chemotherapy treatments but made life more bearable while going through it. Even years after his chemotherapy is over (and he’s still alive) he is left with a chronic ‘bone ache‘ common with people who have been through chemo, and a loss of energy and appetite he once had prior to his treatments. 

    

Adam found no supportive doctor who would sign his MMAR. Even his oncologist, the doctor that told him he only had 3 months to live suggested he “buy off the street” because what cop would arrest a man with cancer? Well, this doctor was mis-informed. Because they do, violently. Sure, we found some doctors who wanted $500 for a signature, but it was far beyond what we could afford. It made us wonder who exactly could afford $500 a year to have their paperwork signed? Doctors don’t even get paid $500 a visit by Health Canada when you see them. Health Canada’s wages for doctors are posted publicly. Depending on the doctor or circumstance, they receive $60-$120 per visit. Something along these lines are more fair and affordable to someone on a reduced income from CPP Disability, ODSP or a pension. Most people looking to obtain a MMAR are usually on a fixed income, because they’re ill! It shouldn’t be held against them. Also, I think it would be illogical for a doctor to risk their practice and license over $100, even $200. The risk far outweighs the gain, regardless of how much they would make annually from it. However, a doctor that charges $500 up to $1000 to fill out paperwork- which doctor would be more likely to turn a blind eye to someone who is.. not so sick? And, who would be more likely to have this kind of money readily available to pay said doctor?
    
    
Health Canada is considering making changes to the MMAR to take away a patient's right to grow because of criminals. But, how exactly did these criminals obtain a MMAR? I think some of the statistics could be falsified. In Canada, our Charter of Rights and Freedoms gives us freedom of association. And, regardless of what a person does or who they know, because they are a ‘criminal‘ doesn’t make them immune to illnesses, diseases, and getting common conditions associated with age. So if they did actual research, how many would be left out of 20,000 exemptions that are actually using and abusing the system. That paid a doctor to turn a blind eye only to take advantage of the system. And how come, because of so few taking advantage- why are thousands left to suffer?

    

The average monthly income for someone on assistance from disability or retirement ranges from $700-$1500 per month depending on the province, circumstances and where the income is coming from.  Cannabis can currently be grown outdoors for essentially free less the costs of  some nutrients. It can also be grown indoors very inexpensively. However, Health Canada wants to take away this affordability and charge patients $8/g [$500-$2480 per month based on the average prescription of 2g-10g/day]. Most indoor growers will find that they are paying no more than $200/mo additional hydro for a larger indoors grow operation- and someone with a 2g/day prescription and only 10 plants will not generate $500 worth of hydro or nutrients per month. 

    

Health Canada’s proposal is not only inconsiderate, but goes against some basic human rights. If I need medicine- Most have benefit plans or can purchase third party health plan. Depending on the province, if you have low income and would qualify for a provincial disability plan- you can get free health coverage from your own government. If you choose to use holistic remedies, many can be grown in your backyard, or a window ledge for free. But Health Canada has no intention of issuing a BIN number for cannabis, and they are taking away a patients right to grow their own holistic and beneficial medicine for free. Implementing these new regulations will only cost our government more money, because those who receive a lower income will be arrested for continuing to grow because they cannot afford to buy their medication. Daily, cannabis related charges are being withdrawn because many qualifying patients cannot afford or find a supportive doctor and the government does recognize this and does withdraw charges based on health conditions. Should new laws be implemented, the courts would have to recognize and provide the same respect and consideration since a person should not be arrested for being poor. 

    

I think these new regulations would have very little legal standing when brought to court. This does not stop violent police arresting sickly people, and crown attorneys dragging cases out in hopes of finding ‘something’ because they don’t want to lose. But when the decision comes to a judge or jury, no human being could ever send a sick person to jail for not having enough money, even if it was brought as far as a trial. These new regulations would also cost the government more money. I have no doubts people would still continue to grow- and eventually be arrested by police, and have a case dragged out by a crown attorney, and be represented by a legal-aid funded lawyer. All this excess time, efforts and money so a small percentage out of 20,000 people would not be able to sell cannabis. Wouldn’t that same money be better spent on funding efforts on stopping meth and crack dealers, illegal gun sellers, or heck.. Education? 

  

 I have personally been using medicinal cannabis for a year. I had an unsuccessful knee surgery leaving me with chronic pain and difficulty walking; leaving me to rely on the assistance of others just to live.  I also have a nerve disorder causing tremors and chronic nerve pain in my hands, legs and face. Simply typing out this blog post sharing my ideas, experience and opinions is a struggle- without cannabis. I have to use a walker or cane to get around. I also have a digestive disorder that causes sensitivity to almost all medication, and a year prior to using cannabis, I was chronically ill just from taking medications to help some symptoms and in turn would create new ones or worsen pre-existing conditions. Cannabis is the only medicine I have ever taken that helps all my health conditions, and does not make me sick. 

     

There was a me before I was disabled. Everyone had a them before they landed where they are. I had a great job, happy and comfortable lifestyle and just thinking back to when I was able to walk easily where ever I wanted is something I truly miss. One of the last freedoms I have, that I am still physically able to do is grow my own medicine. Do not take away our freedom to grow and access affordable medicine. 

Jane Grey is the author of My Criminal Cure detailing her husband's struggle with cancer, using cannabis as medicine and their legal battle. 


Georgia : Well said Jane! Jane is a friend of FB , I can not wait to read this book. So sad that so many people are suffering and dealing with this crap. I am sure it is just the beginning  of a POTlitical nightmare to come,  thanks to The MMAR program. 
Stay tuned and tooned.. 
xox <>< 

It's not easy being green and it is not easy having green as your medicine. 
I should be sitting here with thoughts of cheer,
 Christmas being just a few days away but I am preoccupied to say the least. 

Recently changes have been made to our Medical Marijuana (Cannabis)  program with Health Canada. 
The 'just of it' in my opinion:  
 Merry F*&^%$* Christmas - all you sick and suffering - get ready for next year when we take you to jail for what we allowed you to do in the first place. 

For those what are not aware: when you applied to Health Canada for Medical Cannabis you could also apply to grow your own medicine. Storm could not as he was only 15 - I think you have to be 21. I have had the pleasure of meeting  many the past few years who do grow their own medicine and it is a God send!  It has allowed many to be in complete control with what they put into their body - as in how they grow their medicine and the desired strain. Different strains for different pains,  much like some prefer tylenol over aspirin.  It has kept them safe from purchasing  Cannabis from the black market and helped them financially. NOW the rules have changed? Health Canada is removing all the licenses for people to grow their own and are farming it out to BIG grows. Perhaps  the pharmaceutical  companies who already make billions for over priced medications. Go figure.  Who did not see that waiting in the wings...

So those who are already struggling will now be forced to fewer options, pay higher prices and have NO control.  MOST of the seriously ill that use and grow their own cannabis that I know of are already  struggling to make ends meet - are on government assistance and have a hard time putting food on the table let alone medicine.  One friend admitted to me she will go back on pills because they are easier to get and cheaper for her - even thought it is killing her insides and turns her into a T.V watching zombie ;-(
Lets not forgot about those who truly enjoy growing cannabis. The gardeners! 
Now they want to take away pleasure as well. 
It won't work. Prohibition does not work and this is still prohibition - It is worse! 

Health Canada told people they could grow, many people have invested a lot of money and time and education on learning how to grow good quality medicine for themselves and have been doing this for years.  Many also find it truly a release - a passion. I know people who say it is all they have - much like I need to draw! Another friend told me if he can’t grow his life will be over. It is all he does, all that keeps him going is working in his garden, his reason for getting up everyday.

One friend has taken to the art of bonsai cannabis trees- now suddenly he will be considered a criminal and sent to jail! 
FOR SOMETHING that was allowed by Health Canada?  
For growing plants. <<< Stop and think about that please.
I already hear people saying they won’t stop. 
WHY SHOULD THEY!?  
Who will get busted first - the people who have always had ILLEGAL grows? No, they will still operate - it will be those that were registered with the program and have been proud of the fact that they grow their own medicine. The illegal ones will still do it - only now  even those that do really NEED it will be forced to become criminals by their country  ;-( 

It is a crime! Not just about cannabis, a crime against human rights. EVERYONE has the right to be healthy.
These are NOT meth labs we are talking about - It is a few plants!!!  Not everyone that grows  has a grow factory! 
Media-scare tactics;  just like they use to say it had no medicinal value - funny now that everyone from government to entrepreneurs (just saw a cannabis pain patch for pets patent) trying to market Cannabis as a medicine.  
What about people like Storm that use Cannabis for their chronic pain!? Those who have HIV, Cancer, Arthritis, PTSD, all who use cannabis  In order to live - I read we can expect the cost to be anywhere from 30,000 for a year and UP!!  OMG. -Just the thought of that brings knots to my stomach  & tears to my eyes.  We do not have benefits, we can hardly afford any medications as it is!   I know too many in this same situation! 

I HOPE everyone that was given the license to grow FIGHTS - stands up for what they believe it. It is wrong. 
            Decriminalize.  It is the Humane thing to do.
Make it what it is a plant and end this unnecessary suffering and incarceration of sick people who just want to live a  HAPPY LIFE! 
Other places in the world people are permitted to grow small amounts for personal use. It should be the same.
We are never going to stop the big criminals that grow - especially if the police have to deal with more bullshit like arresting the sick?
How is this any different  than making your own beer?
It’s not - except that alcohol is far more dangerous than cannabis,

and Cannabis helps ease pain and is used as a medicine all around the world and has been since the beginning of time.
My wish this Christmas- to put an end to this insanity so people can heal themselves. Mentally and physically . ONE LOVE

For now - Christmas is a few days away... back to baking, spending time with those I LOVE and thanking God for this plant that has helped so many. 
It has been the best gift our family has even been given and I as long as I breath I will never stop fighting for the rights of my son, for my own human rights and to try to help many who don’t seem to have a voice. Too tired most of them...  I can understand where they are coming from.
http://www.torontosun.com/2012/06/22/changes-to-medical-pot-program-could-double-costs-users-sayhttp://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/dhp-mps/consultation/marihuana/_2011/program/consult-eng.php
xox <>< 

Cannabis the new SNAKE oil! I read that and thought - that is easy for someone to think - especially someone that knows and uses cannabis! Pain, spasm, headaches, nausea.. insomnia- all these I use Cannabis. I cannot remember the last time I took a Tylenol. Cannabis is Personal Medicine - LIKE IT SHOULD BE!  I watched a doc. The Marketing of Madness and it had a point I've never really thought about before - (duh me and ignorance) If I am in pain I go to the Dr. and he prescribes  a pain pill. If my friend 'Gus' goes to the Dr. he is prescribed the same pain pill. 
Here is the thing. I weight 125lbs. Gus 325lbs.  That alone should send up 'warnings' prescribed medication needs to be better controlled. WORSE, CHILDREN ARE taking medication that was designed and created for adult bodies! Which brings me back to that snake oil. I'd much rather have a natural plant THAT eases my pain and will not kill me from overdose before I had to take  some  pill that destroys my liver, gives me a rash and causes my hair to fall out. 
A medicine where I can have the equivalent of a joint or two yet my son has quite a bit more, because he needs  more.  I never worry about overdose. ;-)  Imagine that mom's and dads.. my son will have to take pain medication for the rest of his life, everyday and I don't worry about overdose. PEACE of mind = Priceless♥
So, snake oil - think what you will and  I HOPE you never have to rely on any medicine daily for pain or anything else but I would not call it snake oil.. I'll call it what it is - a miracle plant! God makes no mistakes. 
Thank God for miracles. 

Ignorance is bliss... It was until I started to research all this Cannabis stuff!  I then was turned onto GMO information and documentaries on STUFF.  Cannabis is STILL illegal even after  centuries of  '0' reported deaths, proven medicinal qualities and numerous (MILLIONS) of first hand accounts from the PEOPLE on how it HELPS.  There is a growing (no punn intended) concern regarding GMO's from Salmon to tomatoes (GREAT DOC - WATCH FREE CLICK HERE)  -who will say what the long term affect of GMO's will be - a rise in cancer? That is what is expected ... EXPECTED!?  Don't believe me research it for yourself. I DARE YOU!  Yes because ignorance is bliss. 
Too  many would rather turn on the tube and be amused - worse - possibly educated by the countless mind melting reality T.V.;  NOT a REALITY of mine!! Thank God. Sadly in many cases children copy parents and we will have a new generation of mind melted drones - who will not have a clue what to do when they really NEED to. . they will eat all this crap and die at an earlier age - Oh wait! That is happening NOW! 
For the first time in history children are dying at a  earlier age with  diabetes and obesity & childhood cancers on the rise. Passing before their parents. ;-(
Do you know that the average very successful and intelligent person watches very LITTLE   T.V. ? And they for sure do not spend the day on Face book. Distraction. 
Like or not - we all all being distracted and sooner or later it will hit home.  In India they have tried to patent seeds - so that you can only ever get seeds if you have money! SEEDS!!
Should you plant a seed from a vegetable that is patent - you will be fined. Charged. 
We here say - well just go to the grocery store- in India - they say -  we will starve. That could be our future should we CONTINUE to lose control of our rights as humans.
When I was thinking of this toon I was going to have a animal say the comment on the end because the reality might not be appreciated, the next morning - before I started to draw  - on FB someone posted a starving man and my mind was made up. No cute gopher.
TOO BAD if some find it harsh.  It is reality and I will not be a part of ignoring it. 
I pray I can be a part of changing it.  
WHEN will you TURN off the T.V and TUNE into LIFE and the serious issues surrounding all of us? When you are starving? 
This is starvation. If you are interested. I found it by accident just now and thanked God I drew my cartoon. http://knowmorethanyouretold.blogspot.ca/  I was blown away - over a year ago someone sent me an image that changed my life.  I will warn you I NEVER got it out of my head, the same image and the same comment are at the bottom of that page.  It took me a while. But I thank God for seeing that image.
I was blind but now I see and I will make a difference. 
No one should suffer like that let alone innocent children. Imagine being that mother.  I Am BLESSED!!!    PAY ATTENTION!  Please.
xox <>< 
Oh BTH I have never seen the Kardashiens (really don't know how to spell it) from the rare posts and news bits that I have witnessed - It is a very sad sign that these people are being idolized.  I feel sorry for them and us.  

You made your bed now your going to lie in it..  
Well it's true. Sooner or later it's going to catch up. Like anything over time  you have to be careful. I will admit I am the first one to say in the past when I have been prescribed something I took it. Simple.  Not anymore. 
This twitch has also become a blessing! Especially now with looking into and considering  surgery (in the brain region) - yes, a blessing. I have started to eat healthier- cut out a lot of red meat and try to eat little "fast food', don't drink alcohol (yes I still from time to time crave a cold beer on a hot day and do indulge, but no where like I USE to) but now I am really careful with medication I take. I READ the side effects and try to decide IF I really need the medication and outweigh the options. 
I just got over a cold and was thinking I should go to the Dr.s but sometimes you just have to let it run it's course- sometimes all your body needs is rest and good food. 
That is all the medicine you need. Other times you DO need mediation.
It really is sad that so many people THINK Cannabis is so bad for you but never take into consideration prescribed medications. The cartoon says it all. FACT.  
Ask yourself - have you ever been on a medication that says - do not take alcohol while using this drug? And you have? I have. 
Have you ever taken a medication that says 'do not operate heavy machinery or operate a vehicle' and then drove? I have. Millions do. Daily. 
So my blessing is in the form of education and realization, after all - It's not too late - I'm still breathing! LOL So before you make your bed... be careful. Research - check out your options. Cannabis may not be for you but WHY wouldn't you TRY it before you try some of these other incredibly toxic and many time addictive prescriptions?  It is common sense.
It is my life, my health and I want to choose what is right for me. 
What is right for ME has nothing to do with you or anyone else for that matter. 
Today make your bed! Clean sheets! Cause you never know..
OH - should you overdose on Cannabis - PLEASE try to choose Healthy MUNCHIE options.  xox <><

I hear this time and time again at the EXPO. Not me personally - but others telling me that they deal with this all the time. WHAT does sick look like? Can you see Cancer? Can you tell when someone is dying from a terminal illness? In many cases NO- So stop making Assumptions people!  Thank God,  everyone who is sick does NOT look sick - that is an entirely new issue to deal with -TRUST ME on that - I know!   My son does not look sick.  He does wear hearing aids and glasses but other than that he looks good! Several times he has had strangers  comment - WHAT the heck !? Is there not more serious issues to deal with? Why must someone LOOK sick to justify the use of Cannabis as a medicine?! 
If no one ever smoked it and only used "medibles" -medicated - baked goods, these comments would probably stop.  Smoking is the fasted way to medicate and I don't know about you but when in pain - I want it treated as quickly as possible. WHO does not?  It was one of the biggest problems for my son when he was little - by the time he asked for medicine - (codine for example)  the pain was so great that it took even longer to work - at the same time - if you know the side effects who wants to give a child codine ALL the time. 
 I am So happy my handsome son does NOT look sick.
I on the other hand have been dealing with a very 'visual' problem and get the opposite! Especially from those close to me - I have lost a lot of weight and have a very painful 'Twitch", Luckily my Dr., is able to somewhat control the twitch (contractions) with Botox for the time being - but as you can see in the Video below - it is obvious I am dealing with something. I've had people look at me and comment on my appearance for the past 3 years! 
"Did you have a stroke?"  "OMG are you O.k.?"  "You look terrible!"  "You better not lose anymore weight!"  AND I MUST say - That ON TOP of dealing with  actually NOT feeling great is even harder. It is depressing! I can't smile like I use to - I look like a mad woman sometimes - I use to be a bit of a hottie. Yet I don't feel that anymore when I look in the mirror.  ;-(
So MIND your business!!!
What does it matter to you? 
People if you use Cannabis to medicate, lucky if you have a Dr. that cares and has prescribed Cannabis -- - don't justify yourself - forgive the ignorance and look past the reefer madness! If you don't look sick than thank God -*Buddha,  Jehovah, Yoda- whoever you need to thank - thank them! 
Thank your lucky stars you look fine!  It is ONE less issue to deal with.
Video taken at the Treating Yourself EXPO - I was nervous. But I MUST look past my appearance - I am on a more important mission. If you can't get past my appearance that is your problem.  Thank you to Remo - the Urban grower for this - helping me spread the word! xox  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GgzJ3Kj1pI&feature=g-u-u