Multiple Sclerosis and Medical Marijuana in 2025: My Journey to Pain Relief Without Side Effects

In 2007, my life changed when I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). As a mother of three young children aged 9, 7, and 5, I was determined not to let MS define or limit me. I was an active, hands-on “super mom” who prided herself on strength and resilience.

However, MS quickly impacted my mobility, turning my world upside down. Within a year, I went from running 6 to 8 miles almost daily to relying on a cane or Segway to move around outside. It was a tough adjustment, but I adapted, embracing the evolving version of myself.

MS is unpredictable, constantly reshaping your life with flare-ups, fatigue, and cognitive fog. I fought through these challenges with determination, wielding my pink cane like a warrior’s sword.

Initially, pain was a minor player, mostly appearing during workouts as burning sensations, spasms, and spasticity that subsided shortly after exercise.

The Unpredictable Nature of MS Pain

After four years, a surprising improvement in mobility and balance allowed me to put away my cane and enjoy newfound freedom. Stress reduction, including a divorce, seemed to help.

But MS pain returned gradually, becoming more frequent and intense until it dominated my life. I went from rating my pain as mild to consistently recording it as unbearable during doctor visits.

Despite trying numerous prescribed medications—baclofen, tizanidine, gabapentin, methadone, clonazepam, LDN, amitriptyline, nortriptyline—and even self-medicating with alcohol, relief was elusive. The pain persisted, pulling me deeper into despair.

My Hesitation About Medical Marijuana

Though I received a medical marijuana (MMJ) card four years ago, I was hesitant to try cannabis. Legalization and dispensaries were growing in Washington, but I had concerns:

1. Role Model Concerns for My Teens

I worried about setting an example for my three teenagers.

2. Fear of Judgment

I feared friends and family might think I was using medical marijuana as an excuse.

3. Intimidation at Dispensaries

I was nervous about being inexperienced and worried staff would mock me for not wanting the psychoactive effects.

4. Fear of Disappointment

I dreaded false hope if cannabis didn’t alleviate my pain.

What Six Months on Medical Marijuana Has Taught Me

Now, after nearly half a year on medical marijuana, here’s what I’ve discovered:

1. Supportive Teens

My children want me to feel better and accept medical marijuana as just another treatment, complete with jokes and love.

2. True Support Comes from Close Family and Friends

Those who truly matter understand my pursuit of a better quality of life and stand by me.

3. Dispensary Staff Are Compassionate and Knowledgeable

Dispensary employees have become invaluable resources, offering guidance without judgment.

4. Effective Relief with Minimal Side Effects

Medical marijuana has provided significant pain relief without the severe side effects I experienced with other medications. Instead of dizziness or fatigue, I’ve noticed more laughter, smiles, and even a return of my sex drive.

My journey continues with hope and optimism, exploring various cannabis strains to find the best fit for my symptoms.

Meg Lewellyn, diagnosed with MS in 2007, is a dedicated mother sharing her story on her blog BBHwithMS and on Facebook. Her experience highlights the evolving landscape of MS treatment and the potential benefits of medical marijuana in 2024.

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