Hello, Cannabis! Goodbye, Drugs!
After Joel’s sixth chemo treatment, he was miserable with nausea, sleep deprivation, and pain. I desperately threw myself into searching for something that would ease his symptoms. I was sharing about Joel’s symptoms with a friend, and she told me to consider medical cannabis. I studied everything I could about this plant because we were desperate for any solution. I realized quickly that I misunderstood the power of cannabis.
Medical cannabis had just been approved in the state of Florida shortly before Joel’s diagnosis, so we were thankful to learn we could get it for him. At our next oncology appointment, I asked the oncologist if Joel would be a good candidate for medical cannabis, and he said, “Oh, yes!” I said, “Great! How do we get him started?” He replied, “I have no idea, but when you find out, please let me know.”
This is how I felt when we threw away Joel’s prescription medications and he transitioned to medical cannabis instead. (Image from The Powerpuff Girls)
We walked into the chemotherapy room to start Joel’s treatment that day and I felt like crying. I really wanted to find the medical cannabis, but I was tired and I had no idea where to look. I sat and prayed that God would guide me toward someone to help me figure out the next steps to pursue this alternative treatment. Our friend, who is a primary care physician, came to mind because he is a traditional medical doctor, but also holistic in his thinking. I texted him to ask if he could give us some direction in our search for medical cannabis, and he texted me right back, saying, “You’re not going to believe this, but I am actually sitting here finishing my paperwork to incorporate cannabis into my medical practice. Joel will be my first patient. I’ll finish his application tonight.” As a matter of fact, I could believe it. God, in His faithfulness, had answered my prayers right on time. I felt such peace and excitement about helping Joel find relief through this treatment.
On our first visit to pick up medical cannabis, we were so confused! The state of Florida had just approved cannabis, so the whole process was new, even to the cannabis staff.
Cannabis in an oral syringe
We quickly implemented the cannabis and saw an improvement almost immediately. For the next two weeks, we saw noticeable improvements each day in Joel’s nausea, sleep, and pain. We ended up throwing all of his medications away, and he just used the medical cannabis throughout the rest of his rounds of treatment.
There are a variety of cannabis options such as an oral syringe (pictured), tinctures, inhalers, patches, and topical preparations among others. Smoking through a vape pen (with an oil cartridge loaded inside) may be needed to combat severe symptoms of nausea and stomach pain during chemo.
There are also many combinations with various strains and strengths of cannabis. Each offers different benefits. All cancer patients should discuss cannabis product options and the strength of strains such as high THC with a qualified healthcare provider who is an expert in the use of cannabis in treating cancer. Dispensary employees can also be very helpful in guiding patients. Some experimentation is required as people may react differently to products.
I do not think taking medical cannabis long term is a good idea because it seems healthier for the body to not become reliant on it. But it sure helped Joel during treatment, and I am so thankful for this medicinal plant.