2018 - It's Just Weed - SHERIDAN BFTV CORE 1 DOCS

Cannabis is a growing industry currently taking Canada over by storm. When people think of weed they commonly associate it with the positive attributes it delivers however, that is full story and the truth is being hidden by the mass public to promote the legalization and taxation of Marijuana.

In small doses, Marijuana can reduce stress, anxiety and can be used for pain relief. If used with neglect it can leave users hospitalized or even cause life threatening illness. My documentary will follow three subjects. One of whom developed cancer using the drug, a nurse who sees the drugs negative effects every day and a patient suffering from Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome. “Cannabinoid Hyperemesis syndrome can occur with cannabis use and is characterized by recurrent nausea, vomiting, and cramping, abdominal pain. These symptoms have been reported to be improved temporarily by taking a hot shower or bath, or more fully by stopping the use of cannabis.” During this time the user has full body pain and can not regulate heat. They refused sweat, throw up and cannot hold food or water down on their own for sometimes upward to two weeks.

Many patients are hospitalized for hours or days on IV support to regain strength. This is negative because our health resources are slowed down due to the number of people coming in with Marijuana induced illness. (information obtained from nurse in Oakville Emergency). I have first hand experience witnessing this phenomenon through friends and colleagues. “I started heavily smoking when I was 16. By 20, I would be constantly worrying when I'd get to smoke next. I was told weed was not addictive, however when I don't smoke I can't eat or sleep. And if I smoke too much, I end up in the hospital. I can't go cold turkey, I feel like I will die. But I can't continue smoking, its killing me”.

The story will be told in the perspective of the patient, the nurse and a cannabis dispensary shop owner.

Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome - is characterized by chronic, heavy use of cannabis, recurrent episodes of severe nausea and intractable vomiting, and abdominal pain.