A Case For Cannabis : Martin Lomas

Friday, January 26th, 2018

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To Whom It May Concern
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Re:   Martin Henry Lomas, dob 1/25/1961
         Tel: 416-964-9583 (no msging), Email: martinlomas@mail.com

And: His Justification for Needing Medicinal Cannabis

From Martin:
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I began using cannabis around age 18, when of course it was strictly a kid who was curious and who wanted to get high. I guess I got hooked then, since I've smoked ever since.

Later, in my late 20's, I had my first taste of major depression (that was later, in 2006, correctly diagnosed as Bipolar Disorder: Dr. Lorne Tugg, St. Mikes). At that time, I felt almost 'guilty' for self-medicating with cannabis, yet I did feel genuine improvement. Depression is a very negative, low energy, self-defeating condition; one is barely able enjoy the things one loves. Cannabis brings a boost in energy, and an ability to ignore distractions, and enjoy some things - like music, which is huge in my life.

By the way, there's no point proposing that the drug has caused the problem; my entire family has/had mood disordes, and none of them ever used drugs.

I understand why many physicians do not recommend cannabis for manic episodes; they feel it will foster more mania. My findings are the exact opposite. When using the correct type of strain of cannabis, I feel: more relaxed, more 'centered', more focussed. Just exactly what a manic person needs. FYI - I never, ever buy the hot ''

Further to this remarkable two-way efficacy, cannabis of course helps with many kinds of pain: My badly sore feet, my sometimes 'elderly' back, headaches, and even, currently, my very sore mouth. It also helps with: making bowel movements regular, getting rid of excess phlegm, and improvement of sexual performance (I'll never need to use Viagra). Not bad for a humble plant. Oh, and whatever is happening, it always, always reduces stress, of which I generally have quite a lot.

Now, the fact is, I can't afford full-time cannabis - far from it. Ideally, I would use approx. 2 grams per day, sparingly, throughout the day. When I'm suffering, and know that relief is possible for $10, and being penniless, it is very upsetting. But the point here is that I shouldn't have to use the nasty black market scene to 'score'. I say nasty, because I live at Sherbourne & Dundas.

Another very relevant fact: Around the year 2000 (I think), I was in the care of a psychologist by the name of Dr. Rebekka Moscarello. At the end of various treatment trials, she was moved to write "Treament Resistant" in my file. The doctor has since passed away, but I'm sure this is on record.

In conclusion, I am a mature and resonsible user (I only smoke alone in my room). Thank you for your consideration and empathy.

From Dr. Laura Pripstein, current Medical Director at Sherbourne Health Center, 416-324-4100:
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As Mr. Martin Lomas' actively attending physician, I know him to be a serious and sincere person. I am aware of his struggle with bipolar disorder. As such, I have no hesitation in recommending he be permitted to acquire medicinal cannabis. It is, no doubt, helpful to him as he tries to manage his condition.

Sincerely,



Dr. Laura Pripstein, M.D.