Submitted by Anya C. from Los Angeles, CA

I am 45 years old. I am from Los Angeles, CA. I have been dealing with a seizure disorder since birth.

The challenges I was facing were side effects from long-time use of seizure medication that caused me to feel brain fog, delayed response, and processing of information.

Before I started with my Cannabis journey

I had been on anticonvulsants and bipolar medication (I am not bipolar and was never diagnosed). After 10 years of Lamictal and Lamotrigine, I started to have severe side effects of brain fog, fatigue, and moodiness. I also felt disconnected from my body, which started to outweigh the benefits.

A pivotal moment came when I discovered the natural solution the Stanley Brothers used to help Charlotte Figi, a young girl whose severe seizures were dramatically reduced with Cannabis extract.

I knew that there was a more natural and less harmful solution, but my doctors were not supportive in helping me find a better solution.

I embarked on a learning journey

By traveling to many different medical Cannabis conferences I learned the science of Cannabis, how the plant interacts with the body, and all the trials and results that have been done thus far. I learned about all the global research on how phytocannabinoids are neuroprotectants and help with seizures. In fact, that is what was used to treat seizures in ancient times.

I did, of course, struggle with the stigma!

Because I was not a recreational user and never liked the feeling of being "high," but the science and understanding of the endocannabinoid system and how we also produce similar chemical compounds as the Cannabis plant. Whatever stigma I had it’s gone because I now understand the power of this plant and how vital it is for our human body.

My choice of medication today consist of

1. Oil-based tinctures, made of varieties that are rich in CBD or a similar 20:1 ratio
2. FECO Suppositories
3. Variety specific hash
4. Craft/ small batch outdoor flower

Before incorporating Cannabis for my condition

I thought that I would never have a life without prescription medication, which is a very scary feeling when you have to depend on a harmful and very expensive medication that doctors make you take.

My life has been transformed

After incorporating Cannabis to address my health issues. I don't struggle with brain fog anymore as I am more alert and sharp. I am back to my own self-awareness again after feeling very cloudy for almost a decade.

I became an advocate for plant medicine and holistic wellness practices.

This is Anya’s personal story and not meant to be medical advice. It is for informational purposes.

To work with a medical Cannabis professional, please visit our directory of coaches, educators, and medical professionals. Everyone's endocannabinoid system (ECS) is different; good results start with the right approach. You don't have to figure it out on your own.

If you need help with any terminology in this article, you may find some answers in our glossary.