Demonstrators Protest Federal Marijuana Crackdown

"Although the march began an hour behind schedule at 1 p.m..."

Considering the proclivities of the folks involved, Mr. Preston's observation should be in the "What Else Did You Expect?" file.

Nice soundtrack, bro'.

Medical marijuana is not indicated to cure any ailment but to reduce symptoms of an illness.
In Elvy's case, I believe, she has glaucoma; apparently marijuana slows the progress of the disease. It would be impossible to see from her picture whether she is doing better or not.
In the case of those undergoing chemo or radiation treatment, they are able to get relief from the nausea which otherwise makes it impossible to eat anything without vomiting.
It is also helpful for those suffering from AIDS related complex who also have symptoms of nausea.
But I will reiterate my position that all drugs should be legal and the "war on drugs" has been worse than a waste of time which enables criminals to have one more way of making money and increases the number of innocent bystanders that become collateral damage.

"Let them eat cake"

A family friend had lung cancer which killed her a few years back. During her decline she was smoking marijuana to relieve the symptoms. According to what I was told the symptoms were dramatically reduced.

Alcohol prohibition failed, the drug war is likewise failing. Drug abuse is a sign of a morally vapid culture and you won't solve the problem by passing more and more laws. (Just like gun control won't stop the violence that has infected our culture) I don't see the anti-drug warriors getting serious about addressing the moral rot in society.

We have been conditioned to automatically react to marijuana in the same way folks used to react (and many still do) to the sight of an interracial couple: Purely on a visceral and conditioned level, but without examining the facts.

Overall, I believe that if Santa Barbara left people alone who are smoking pot, and spent less time promoting the booze culture, I think that the big picture would improve.

As for me, I haven't smoked the Killer Weed since 1977 and don't miss it, but the evidence suggests to me that there are those who benefit from it and I say we should leave them alone.

AShaw writes:

"Does Elvy have an illness or an agenda? She has her bucket of fed-sanctioned reefers why does she feeI compelled to march the streets? I often wonder if these people are more concerned about the ill, or about losing support for their habit. This may be a low blow, but looking at Elvy, I don't see how she is evidence that pot is helping sick people..."

Look, she is guaranteed her "bucket" once a month for the rest of her life. Period. She has no ulterior motive but to help others.

The funding for the article you posted on glaucoma came from the pharmaceutical industry. As patients move towards natural cures which are un-patentable, the pharmaceutical industry loses their profits. That is why they fund studies like the one you posted. I hope that you looked at studies on both sides, but I know you did not because you have no interest in the truth. People are able to function and live for years by using this substance. Look into how it helps multiple sclerosis patients, Parkinson's and various muscular diseases. Then read about the other 100+ conditions that benefit from the use of cannabis. It really does save lives, and it helps others live better lives. You and others like you should be ashamed of yourself for fighting this cause.