MICHELLE ROMAN - LA CANNATECA | DEDICATED SERVICE

How did cannabis change your life?

My story with cannabis began in 2017. I've always suffered from debilitating conditions, and medications weren't helping. At the same time, I have a 17-year-old brother with severe autism. In 2017, my mom started looking for alternatives for my brother because he didn't react well to Hurricane Maria. That's when medical cannabis was recommended for both of us. We've been patients since 2018, and my condition has improved tremendously. My brother now sleeps much better, and his anxiety and aggression have decreased. Cannabis changed my life because we were able to find a remedy for my brother, ensuring him a better quality of life. I've also seen improvements in my social skills, mood, and sleep, and my anxiety has decreased drastically. My family is also happier to see how much we've improved.

How long have you been a Budtender and how did you get into this lifestyle?

I've been a Budtender since September 2020. My passion for cannabis began when I was 19, when I started as a patient. I began researching and educating myself until I turned 21. My mom has been my guide in this learning process. She explained cannabinoids and terpenes and their effects to me. My motivation started there, when I realized I could help people improve their quality of life using cannabis. As soon as I could, I started taking courses, but the pandemic delayed my certification process. I began my career as a receptionist, and then I started as a Budtender at La Cannateca.

Tell us about the different patients you see every day. Which one has impacted you the most?

I've truly interacted with several patients who have deeply impacted me. I enjoy talking with them to ensure their experience is comfortable and trustworthy, and that's how I've witnessed people with entirely different conditions being positively affected by using cannabis. As an alternative to traditional medicine, I've seen how cannabis brings them a sense of well-being. Since joining La Cannateca, I've been given the opportunity to further my education so I can share healing information. We prioritize patient comfort, offering everything from a coffee machine and tea to educational books. When attending to our patients, we strive to find the best option for each individual.

What is the most common thing that patients ask you for?

The most common request from my patients is for flower. Whenever I dispense flower, I make sure to explain the terpenes and cannabinoids it contains and how they can alleviate symptoms. Many also prefer cartridges and edibles. When I recommend cartridges, I also explain the importance of terpenes and cannabinoids. When patients prefer edibles, it's important to explain that there are different dosages for different body types. Furthermore, by not teaching about dosages for all methods of consumption, we risk patients overmedicating.

Do you think more public education is needed about the stigma surrounding cannabis?

I think many people still need to be educated about the stereotypes surrounding cannabis. We can't criminalize people for a flower that can actually help change lives. I've treated patients who are breaking free from the stereotypes of cannabis as a drug and its prohibition. There are still people who feel prejudiced against using cannabis because they've been told it could affect their jobs. Many prejudiced people are uneducated on the subject and recognize the power the medical cannabis industry has over the pharmaceutical industry. This is also why the decriminalization of cannabis has been impossible. I would add that patients aren't fully educated about the regulations for medical cannabis, which could harm them in different ways. It's our duty to facilitate the process for patients so they can enjoy a full life.

What do you do in your free time?

I study Sociology at the University of Puerto Rico and will graduate in June. I enjoy taking different workshops on various topics within Sociology and other fields. I like to dance, go out to eat, explore different types of music, spend time with my loved ones, and I occasionally tutor math. I also enjoy researching studies on medicinal cannabis, including sociological studies. While researching medicinal cannabis, I always think of my brother. I not only learn about it but also look for ways to continue improving his quality of life.

What consumption methods do you recommend, and which is your favorite?

It really depends on the patient's condition and needs. My favorite methods are flowers, cartridges, and concentrates. However, I like to try different methods of consumption since I'm always looking for the best products for myself and to educate my patients. I've tried other methods of consumption such as edibles, capsules, and topicals.

In Guaynabo you have the solution for your Cannabis medicine, ask for Michelle and tell her about what you need for your health and you will see the exceptional treatment you will receive.

Consume consciously.

Mr. Sens | @mrsenspr