My name is Larry, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran (1988-1997) who served during Desert Storm from 1990-1991. I was part of active combat, even involved in missions to apprehend high-profile targets in Iraq. These experiences are beyond what many civilians can comprehend.

After leaving the Marines to be a father to my children, I, like many veterans, hoped civilian life would free me from the war’s grip. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. Despite being told to “just get over it,” the mental and physical tolls persisted. Neuropathy and arthritis, stemming from my military service, brought unbearable pain into my daily life.

Living with PTSD and chronic pain, I realized conventional medicine only offered temporary relief through painkillers that left me feeling disconnected from myself.

It was then that I turned to medical cannabis at the suggestion of my doctor. It proved to be a transformative solution, allowing me to reduce my dependence on pharmaceuticals and reclaim a sense of normalcy. For the first time in two decades, I felt like myself again—engaged with life rather than numbed by it.

Medical cannabis not only alleviated my symptoms but also empowered me to understand and advocate for what veterans like me truly experience.