In Brazil, a growing number of mothers are at the forefront of the movement to legalise and expand access to medical cannabis. Driven by the desire to provide relief for their children suffering from severe medical conditions, these mothers have become powerful advocates for change.
One such mother is Janaína Silva, whose 4-year-old son, Murillo, has epilepsy. After traditional medications failed to control his seizures, Silva turned to medical cannabis. The results were transformative, reducing the duration of seizures from minutes to seconds.
However, the cost of CBD oil -$180 – was a significant financial burden for Silva. Fortunately, Sao Paulo state recently enacted a policy providing free medical cannabis to patients with qualifying conditions. This groundbreaking initiative offers hope to countless families struggling to afford life-saving treatments.
A Decade-Long Struggle
The path to legalising medical cannabis in Brazil has been arduous. For years, mothers like Maria Aparecida Carvalho have fought tirelessly to secure access for their children. Carvalho's daughter, Clárian, suffers from Dravet Syndrome, a severe form of epilepsy that can lead to life-threatening seizures. Despite the challenges, Carvalho persisted. She obtained CBD oil through unconventional means, including having it smuggled into the country and cultivating cannabis at home once she obtained special court permission. Her determination paved the way for the legalisation of medical cannabis in Sao Paulo.
A State-Level Victory
Sao Paulo's decision to provide free medical cannabis is a significant step forward, but it's important to note that the federal government has yet to take similar action. Legislation to regulate medical cannabis at a national level remains stalled in Brazil's Congress.
The law in Sao Paulo is currently restricted to patients with three rare medical conditions. While this is a positive development, it highlights the need for further progress to ensure broader access to medical cannabis for those who can benefit from it.
A Growing Movement
The growing number of Brazilians seeking medical cannabis treatment underscores the demand for this alternative therapy. In 2023, over 430,000 individuals received cannabis-based treatments. As awareness of the benefits of medical cannabis increases, it is likely that this number will continue to rise.
The tireless efforts of Brazilian mothers have played a crucial role in driving the legalisation of medical cannabis. Their determination and perseverance have paved the way for a more compassionate and inclusive healthcare system.
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