The article explores the multifaceted nature of pain, highlighting how it affects individuals in various scenarios such as childhood convulsions, spasticity, chemotherapy-related nausea, and rare degenerative diseases. For millions of families, medicinal cannabis has emerged as a promising treatment option when traditional therapies fail. The author argues that dismissing cannabis as having 'almost no benefit' contradicts a growing body of scientific evidence supporting its efficacy, particularly from medical professionals in Brazil's Unifesp university.

It notes the global shift towards acceptance of medicinal cannabis, with about 50 countries having regulated its production and use over the past three decades. Israel is highlighted as a pioneer in this field, having begun production in 1999 and fostering research into its medical applications, resulting in over 140,000 patients currently using cannabis as part of their treatment plan. This shift indicates a growing recognition of the role cannabis may play in alleviating suffering, particularly in cases where conventional medicine has limitations.

The article ultimately calls for a nuanced understanding of medicinal cannabis, arguing that simplifying the debate to a question of risk versus benefit fails to recognize the complex experiences of patients and the scientific advancements that advocate for its therapeutic use. As the discussion around cannabis evolves, it pushes for further research and acceptance in the face of prejudices that may hinder access to this potentially life-enhancing treatment.