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IDEAL Reform will sponsor patient networks in Chicago and Springfield, run by volunteer physicians in the area, for people who suffer from chronic medical conditions for which medical cannabis is a viable treatment option. It will enable patients to find sympathetic, well-educated doctors and provide a community with which they can feel comfortable and safe, receiving answers to questions they may have pertaining to legislation, law, medication, support, and treatment.
Patients
Our primary patient is Brenda Kratovil, a sufferer of glaucoma and multiple sclerosis, and a ward of the state. DHS has a fiduciary responsibility towards her health care, yet Brenda is not receiving the quality of care she deserves.
In addition, because of her condition, Brenda was recently convicted of a class III felony for possession of cannabis. She received a stipulated bench trial at which her ophthalmologist, Dr. Michael Savitt testified on her behalf. Although his testimony indicated that cannabis was the only thing saving her vision, the judge would not allow a medical necessity defense.
According to Brenda’s doctors, she cannot use the medication generally prescribed to glaucoma patients, steroid eye drops, because after two decades of use her body has developed a toxic reaction to them. Under these circumstances, there has developed a conflict of interest between DHS and Brenda’s healthcare. As such, any traditional treatment will only cause harm, and any mandated treatment will follow the same.
Stories on Brenda
· Does Illinois' Medical Marijuana Law Have Legs? Brenda Kratovil is Still Waiting to Find Out
· Rhetorical Question: Would the US Government rather you go blind than smoke marijuana?
· Chicago Tribune/Eric Zorn: "Drug Laws look extreme through woman's eyes (June 19, 2003)
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