The column below reflects the views of the author, and these opinions are neither endorsed nor supported by WisOpinion.com.
I can remember, with vivid detail, the exact moment I knew I wanted to pursue a life of public service.
Back in the 1990s, my grandfather, who was my role model, was diagnosed with lung cancer, which eventually metastasized to bone cancer.
My grandfather was a big guy, but the chemotherapy treatments he went through took a tremendous toll on his body. It was a struggle for him to keep food down and, as a result, he lost a considerable amount of weight and strength. It was painful and heartbreaking to watch him wither away.
>> WisPolitics is now on the State Affairs network. Get custom keyword notifications, bill tracking and all WisPolitics content. Get the app or access via desktop.
With no other viable options available, my family made the difficult decision to go outside the law and get him marijuana. The transformation he underwent was rather eye-opening. Because he got his appetite back, I am confident that marijuana gave us more time with him before he ultimately passed away.
My story is not unique. Just about every one of us has known someone who has suffered, or is continuing to suffer, from a debilitating disease. They are our grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, siblings, friends, co-workers, classmates and neighbors.
That is why I am proposing legislation that would legalize medicinal cannabis in Wisconsin.
While there are often medications that doctors can prescribe to help combat illnesses and ailments, many are addictive and/or come with side effects that can make living a normal life practically impossible.
It is long overdue that Wisconsin joins the 40 other states – including Illinois, Minnesota and Michigan – that have given patients access to medical marijuana when prescribed by a doctor. Cannabis is far less harmful and poses fewer negative side effects than most prescription drugs – especially opiate-based painkillers – and our state’s residents should also have the choice to decide which health care options work best for them.
This is something that a majority of Wisconsinites want. In a recent poll, more than 85 percent of Wisconsin citizens said they are in favor of medicinal marijuana.
I’ve heard from many individuals who say my bill does not go far enough and that we should also legalize recreational cannabis. However, my primary focus is on ensuring that fewer people experience what my family had to endure with my grandfather. We should be empowering patients, in consultation with their medical providers, to seek out alternatives and, most importantly, relief.
— Testin, R-Stevens Point, represents the 24th Senate District.
