Tell me a little bit about how you were first introduced to cannabis therapy:
I have always been around cannabis all my life but I started using it as a teenager to cope with my different, yet not far from standard, reservation life. I was diagnosed with end-stage liver disease in 2017 and that's when I became more serious about cannabis because I myself did not want to take opioids.
In what specific ways has cannabis therapy improved your health and wellbeing?
It has helped me reduce my intake of Fentanyl and Oxycodone which are the drugs that were prescribed to me without hesitation. CBD alone has got me off Gabapentin, which is for nerve pain.
What have you learned and/or realized about cannabis therapy?
It may not be for everyone and also is different for everyone. We all react to different methods and strains and should not be scared to ask one another for help navigating through this.
What would you tell someone who is skeptical about cannabis therapy?
Try it first. You can't knock it until you try it. Find what works best for you. This also means do not be scared to explore different methods of consumption.
What are some misconceptions about cannabis that you have encountered in your experience?
For me, I once was told Native Americans are allergic to cannabis and because the gentleman was told by a doctor he thinks I should be careful. Also, we're not all lazy and unproductive. You'll be surprised by who is a medical user that you may know.
What other ways do you stay happy and healthy?
Exercise and eating healthy play a big part but also never forget your mental health. I grew up in a time when anxiety was a cop-out but nowadays there is so many resources given and they should be taken advantage of. Being embarrassed is a thing of the past. Let your ailment or disadvantage become your advantage and learn from it.
What is a specific quality that you love about yourself?
I'm very open and resourceful. If I can help someone by sharing my story then, by all means, I'm an open book.
Anything else you would like to include about your relationship with cannabis and/or HMH?
From my favorite concentrates KAYA to the mountain-grown HMH flower that is just amazing. I love the connection that HMH puts between its patients and cannabis. I have never had a budtender that was not well educated, and if they did not know the answer then someone within arms reach will know some information. Favorites and the "cool kids" don't fly in this place and I love it. Each and every one of the staff is there for the real reason.
Thank you, Lamar!
Check out Lamar's Instagram for all kinds of cannabis love!
