Cannabis to Save My Life

Cannabis to Save My Life is a moving documentary that tells the real-life story of Patricia Crone, a professor of Islamic history at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, who was diagnosed with lung cancer which quickly metastasized to her brain. The 2016 movie also features Jon Gettman, a cannabis policy expert, and Dr. Allyn Howlett, a neurobiology researcher specializing in the endocannabinoid system. The film serves as an illustrative exploration of medical cannabis in the context of one individual's personal battle with terminal cancer.

Director, Lionel Mill's piece is not only about Patricia Crone's brave battle against an aggressive form of cancer, but also about the controversial use of cannabis as an alternative or supplementary form of treatment. Through Patricia's journey, the film sheds light on the increasing evidence pointing towards the effectiveness of cannabis in relieving certain symptoms of cancer and potential applications in halting or diminishing the progression of the disease.

The documentary exposes viewers to Patricia's emotional journey, as she shares her day-to-day experiences and struggles. Facing her diagnosis, the audience bears witness to Patricia's process to find some form of hope or relief in the often misunderstood and politicized realm of medical marijuana use. Her courage and resilience are highlighted throughout the film, as is her relentless pursuit for a solution to relieve her physical pain and, possibly, prolong her life.

Leading marijuana researcher Jon Gettman lends his expertise to the documentary by providing insight into the benefits and the science behind medical marijuana. His perspectives on the application and effectiveness of cannabis as medication effectively enlighten viewers about the potential of this natural resource. Crucially, Gettman also delves into the legislative barriers that often block access to medical cannabis, emphasizing the complex quandary that many patients like Patricia find themselves in.

Complementing Gettman's input, Dr. Allyn Howlett, a neurobiology researcher who contributed significantly to the discovery of cannabinoid receptors in the human brain, explains the science behind why and how cannabis can provide symptom relief. By offering a scientific viewpoint on the impact of cannabis on the human body, the film ensures that the audience understands the potential biological mechanisms in action.

Despite being an exploration of the medical benefits of cannabis, the movie never shies away from showcasing the obstacles associated with its use. It scrutinizes the societal and legal challenges, highlighting the regulations that govern its use and the stigma that still exists around it. The fact that Crone lives in New Jersey, where using marijuana for health reasons is legal but highly regulated, offers a real-world example of these hurdles. The movie capably weaves the personal with the political and medical, unpacking the multifaceted issues that surround the use of cannabis as a medicinal drug.

In its essence, Cannabis to Save My Life is a poignant story about hope, resilience, the human desire to live, and the lengths one will go to seek alternative sources of healing when conventional medicine seems to fall short. Beyond the annals of medical research and drug policy debates, the film remains faithful to a deeply personal narrative, offering an empathetic and heartfelt portrait of a woman's struggle with terminal cancer.

The documentary's central narrative, the fight of Patricia Crone against her disease and her endeavors for relief and survival, create a stirring film that investigates our collective knowledge about cancer and the potential role of cannabis as a therapeutic tool in this fight. It leaves its audience to ponder an essential question: In the face of life-threatening illness, shouldn't every available option be on the table?

Cannabis to Save My Life is not just about the exploration of cannabis as a possible solution - it's an important narrative about the broader ongoing debate surrounding alternative medicine and regulatory freedom. It’s an impactful, must-watch film for those interested in learning more about medical cannabis, the existing medical and legal landscape, and the inspiring journey of a remarkable woman.