Today I evaluated a 54 y/o HIV+ male who suffered from diabetic peripheral neuropathy for medical marijuana as an alternative to Lyrica (pregabalin) He reported that he had developed the diabetes as a result of treatment with protease inhibitors for his HIV. He has been experiencing numbness and tingling in both his feet for the past 6 months as a result of the neuropathy (pain originating from damage to the nerves themselves). He stated that he wanted to stop taking the Lyrica because of a 50 lb weight gain associated with the medication (weight gain is a common side effect).

Today I especially think of PFC Juan Garza. He was just a 19 year old man who on April 8th, 2003 took a bullet for his country as we advanced on the city of Bagdad. I was with him as he passed in my arms and still think of him to this day. He was a stud and we all owe people like him more than we can ever express. When I find myself complaining about things in life I can snap myself out of it instantly by thinking of how lucky I am to HAVE LIFE. I think of all the things I get to do that he never experienced. Gives me the chills.

As medical director of Medical Cannabis of Southern California I often meet patients who are combat veterans and are in need of help. One of the blessings in my life was the opportunity to serve along side the Marines of 1st Battalion 4th Marines in Iraq from January-September 2003. I witnessed combat from the front lines and experienced the buffet of emotions that our troops go through on a daily basis. Now that I am honorably discharged I can openly discuss the benefits of using cannabis to take care of: