Towradgi man Ben Oakley will share his story about how medicinal cannabis is helping him manage his life-threatening condition at this weekend’s hemp expo in Sydney.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The person who ‘’saved his life’’ by supplying him with the product for free – Adelaide woman Jenny Hallam – is also on the list of speakers at the Hemp, Health & Innovation Expo and Symposium at Rosehill Gardens.
Ben and his father Michael have vowed to stand behind Ms Hallam, who is due to face court over charges of possessing and manufacturing a controlled drug.
For now the pair is forced to pursue illegal sources for the cannabis oil which has helped the young Mr Oakley, age 20, withstand the chronic pain caused by stiff person syndrome.
The oil has also stopped the life-threatening spasms he once endured due to the rare neurological disorder.
Michael Oakley said while consumer sentiment towards medicinal cannabis was changing, and there had been legislative changes at both state and federal levels – there was still much to be done.
‘’We want to share Ben’s story of a patient who’s had a lifesaving transformation as a result of something that still technically remains illegal and effectively unavailable,’’ Michael Oakley said.
‘’While the department of health has given permission for Ben to use it … to get a legal source of medicinal cannabis at the moment would cost us $30,000 a year which is simply unaffordable.
‘’While we welcome any steps towards getting people in need access to this medication, we will keep pushing to make it more affordable and accessible.’’
It's a herbal supplement that hasn't been responsible for a single death, yet it's being treated like it's radioactive waste.
- Michael Oakley
The father and son will be the first speakers at the symposium on 9.15am on Saturday, and will also talk on Sunday from 1.30pm.
The weekend event will also hear from other patients using medicinal cannabis as well as doctors, activists, politicians, researchers and hemp farmers.
There will also be educational workshops, performances as well as more than 80 exhibitors showcasing hemp products including clothing, beauty products and building materials.
.