Into the Woods: Ryan’s story of pain and perseverance

Can you tell us about your health journey, the conditions you’re diagnosed with, and any past treatments?

I'm autistic. I also have three slipped discs in my spine and severe problems with my knees, so I’m constantly in a lot of pain. I received facet joint injections into my spine in the past, and for three or four weeks, they would really help—it felt like I had a new spine. But, unfortunately, the doctors could only give me the injections every six months, and after four injections, I couldn’t have any more. 

I’ve also tried pharmaceutical medications. I've been prescribed Gabapentin, Pregabalin and Tramadol—the opioid pain medication.  

When they first started me off on Tramadol, there were some positive results. Then they increased the dosage, and it started wearing off too quickly, so then they changed me to Gabapentin. That didn’t work, and the pain was unbearable. I could walk maybe three lengths of a bus before I needed to sit down and take a break. 

With Pregabalin, I felt sleepy and confused most of the time. I wouldn't even attempt to go outside, so my doctor put me back on the Gabapentin, but it still didn’t work. I was in so much pain I couldn’t even walk my dog around the block. 

But, that’s over now. 

I have not taken any pharmaceutical drugs since I started my treatment with medical cannabis: zero prescription tablets. Nothing at all. It’s been fantastic. I never have to stand in a queue for half an hour to book appointments or to reorder my prescription. I only need to send an email and wait for my package to arrive by mail. 

How did you discover that medical cannabis could be a safe and legal treatment alternative?

I knew cannabis for medicinal purposes was legal in the US and, about a year ago, a friend told me that it was available for prescription in the UK. I brushed it off at first—I didn’t believe it—but my friend said, “Seriously, I think you should look into this.” 

Shortly after that, on social media, I started to read testimonials that people had shared about their experiences with medical cannabis and I started researching seriously. The information I found was surprising. For example, I had no idea that both medical cannabis flower and cannabis oil have been available for prescription in the UK since 2018.

Since starting treatment with medical cannabis, have you noticed changes in your day-to-day life?

My passion is spending time in the woods, hiking and just being outdoors. I love to be surrounded by nature. My dream would be to one day move to Alaska with my nearest neighbour about 10 miles away. I like the structure and solitude that nature provides.

For years now, my chronic pain has made hiking in the woods almost impossible, but in only six months, medical cannabis has changed everything. Since coming onboard with Releaf, my life has become a fantastic journey. Now, I can go outside for five hours at a time now and take my dog for a long walk. 

Last Sunday, on a walk, my dog and I came to a big hill. Eight months ago, I would have looked at the hill and said, “Nice hill. How do we get around it?” But this time I looked at it and said, “Yes, it's muddy. Yes, it's rocky. Let's go straight up!” 

I have regained the confidence to go outside on my own again, and I don’t need someone to come with me to help me if I have a problem with my back or my knees. There is an ancient woodland near my home, it’s about 15 miles wide, and I haven't managed to walk around it yet - but now, I think it’s possible.

At the end of June, I went to a garden party at a local pub. I don't ever remember being much of a dancer, but now it seems like I have more moves than Michael Jackson. That is something I'd never dreamed of doing a few months ago. Eight months ago, if I even just turned sharply in the wrong way, I’d hear a crack, and I’d be suffering for days afterwards. I’d lie in agony for days waiting for expensive chiropractic appointments to become available. 

 I can't put into words how happy I am that I can now do things that I haven't been able to do for years. 

And, what about in your work life, have you noticed any changes there?

I work for my family’s taxi company and, unfortunately, I spend eight hours a day sitting at a desk. Before I discovered medical cannabis, someone had to help me get up from my chair at the end of my shift. I couldn’t move. 

But, since I started with Releaf, I can now get through my eight hour shift without a problem—I can even get up and go for a walk afterwards. In fact, I used to wear a knee brace every day and I don’t use that any more. 

The productivity in my work has definitely increased as well. I'm able to focus on tasks much longer without the pain becoming unbearable. It's improved my mood and, generally, my quality of life. It’s fantastic. 

How do your friends and family feel about your treatment? Have you noticed any stigma associated with medical cannabis?

Only one friend had a negative reaction to my treatment. This person didn’t see the difference between my prescription vape pen and buying “street” cannabis in a car park. I understand where she’s coming from, but it’s not the same. 

I see people selling cannabis on the street and I don’t want anything to do with that. I don’t deal with any of that nonsense. Royal Mail delivers my prescription the same as any other medication. It feels great to know that everything I’m doing is completely legal. 

I even have my cannabis card, so if I ever need to prove that I’m a registered cannabis patient. I can say, “Look, here's my card. It's all legal. Thank you very much for your time.” 

On a more positive note, my brother is amazed by the effects he’s seen. He always says, “Wow! I can’t believe it. How is this even possible?” I tell him that I don't know exactly how it works, but it's definitely working. 

For me, that’s the only thing that’s important.