Patient:
David Burger
Age:
33
Condition:
Degenerative arthritis
Home:
Pacoima
Using medical cannabis since:
2004
Why did you start using medical marijuana?
I had a buddy I would self-medicate through, but once I found out about legalization I researched the subject and realized I was a candidate. I was doing a show for “Extravaganja” when I found out about the options for getting a medical marijuana card.
Once I found out how some strains are better for you, I went to the clinic and got a medical license. I was constantly being offered Oxycontin and Vicodin. They were basically saying, “If you want to be a narcotics dealer, we will help you out.”
I have never liked pills. I’ve always preferred home remedies. I was offered any pill I wanted, free of charge, before I got my medical card. It’s like psychiatrists diagnosing children with disorders and then handing their parents prescriptions for a bunch of pills. We print posters telling kids to stay off drugs, and then we force-feed them drugs.
Did you try other methods or treatments before marijuana?
What’s funny is I have ADD, or what I call, a ton of energy. I would sleep 1 to 2 hours a day. I used to do drugs, back in the day. There was crack and cocaine all around us.
When I tried cocaine, I noticed it calmed me down. I ended up doing a lot, and I realized that I could die doing cocaine. But I noticed that when I smoke marijuana I could calm down without all of the side effects.
Marijuana doesn’t help me think better, but it does keep me from going out of my mind. It helps my appetite and my pain. If the side effects are that I eat and sleep a little more when I smoke, that’s fine with me.
What’s the most important issue or problem facing medical marijuana patients in California?
I honestly think it’s just another bad thing Obama is doing to the nation. He’s releasing violent criminals so he can help save money, but he prosecutes peaceful cannabis smokers.
What do you say to people who are skeptical about marijuana as medicine?
Marijuana is an herb. It’s a natural plant. It’s able to do so many things and has helped so many people. (Jasen T. Davis)
Are you an MMJ patient from Southern California with a compelling story to tell? If so, we want to hear you. Email your name, contact information and details about your experiences with medical cannabis to courage@ireadculture.com.
