A Jacksonville, Florida Navy veteran is the first person in the city to receive a medical cannabis home delivery, First Coast News reports. The expansion of the program under the voter-approved Amendment 2 took effect on Tuesday.
In 2008, Gabriel George was involved in a motorcycle crash that inflicted injuries that still cause him daily and excruciating pain, including; severe nerve damage, a minor brain injury, and right arm paralysis. At the time of the accident, both of his lungs collapsed, he broke his C2 and C5 vertebra, six ribs, scapula, and collar bones.
“I’ve done everything,” George said in the report. “I’ve done every pain pill, every muscle relaxer, every prescription pill you can find. I’ve had multiple surgeries.”
His low-THC oil was supplied by Knox Medical, a dispensary outside of Orlando – more than 140 miles from Jacksonville. His recommendation was written by Dr. Terel Newton of Jacksonville’s Total Pain Relief.
Insurance does not cover the cost of the treatment, forcing George to pay $90 out-of-pocket for a 600-milligram bottle. However, George says it’s worth it.
“I’m able to do more, smile more,” he said. “I’m able to eat without it hurting or causing more problems. Especially getting back to doing things with my daughter.”