I am a 28 year old responsible member of society who suffers daily with the AIDS virus. Upon being diagnosed in June of 1996, I began a strict drug schedule consisting of several strong anti-viral drugs, the side effects of which are almost as awful as the disease itself. Due to the side effects, I suffered terribly and lost 50 pounds, bottoming out at a mere 125 lbs. on my normally 175 pound frame. I struggled for an entire year before a family member finally convinced me to try cannabis. Suddenly my pills became much more tolerable and my appetite returned. I was less nervous and scared, rarely nauseous and, in general, far more comfortable.

Unfortunately, cannabis is difficult to acquire, very expensive, and there is always a risk of arrest due to its illegality. With all these factors working against me, there were several periods in which I was unable to acquire cannabis. This lack of the drug would seriously reflect on my health. Since finding a supplier (still very expensive) a year ago, my health has made its most noted improvement, and recent blood work results have shown that I am one of the most improved AIDS patients in Vancouver.

I recently heard about, and became a member of, the BC Compassion Club Society. I was pleasantly surprised to find the club to be an extremely well-run organization that helps many people from all levels of society. All cannabis that is distributed through the society is natural, clean and relatively inexpensive, making it a lifesaver for many individuals with disabilities similar to my own. Its continued existence will bring an end to a lot of unnecessary suffering.