Real Life Stories: How Cancer Patients Are Using CBD to Feel Better

Apr 28

Real Life Stories: How Cancer Patients Are Using CBD to Feel Better

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from the cannabis plant, has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic benefits, particularly among cancer patients seeking relief from treatment-related symptoms. While scientific research is ongoing, numerous anecdotal accounts suggest that CBD may play a role in enhancing well-being during cancer treatment. This article explores real-life stories of cancer patients who have incorporated CBD into their wellness routines, highlighting their experiences and the broader implications for patient care.

1. Nicky Visser: A Twice-Survived Breast Cancer Patient

Nicky Visser, a twice-survived breast cancer patient, turned to CBD oil after experiencing severe pain and complications from traditional treatments. Following a mastectomy and subsequent radiotherapy, she developed a blood clot in her surgical scar, leading to limited arm mobility. Conventional pain medications proved ineffective, prompting Nicky to explore alternative options. She began using CBD oil and, in conjunction with osteopathic treatment, regained full movement and relief from pain. Nicky's positive response to CBD led her to pursue a diploma in medicinal cannabis and CBD, aiming to help others manage their pain through natural remedies.

2. Sharon Kelly: Overcoming Stage IV Lung Cancer

Sharon Kelly was diagnosed with Stage IV non-small cell lung cancer in January 2014, with a prognosis of six to nine months to live. Opting to combine conventional treatment with cannabis oil, she began using it alongside her prescribed medication. Remarkably, by September 2014, scans revealed that Sharon was cancer-free. Despite a recurrence in 2015, she continued her cannabis regimen, which she credits for her ongoing remission. Sharon has since become a prominent advocate for medicinal cannabis, sharing her story to inspire others facing similar challenges.

3. Lung Cancer Patient: Tumor Shrinkage Without Conventional Treatment

A case study published in BMJ Case Reports detailed the experience of a woman in her 80s diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer. Declining conventional treatments, she self-administered CBD oil daily for over two years. During this period, her tumor size decreased from 41 mm to 10 mm, a 76% reduction. While this outcome is anecdotal and not conclusive evidence of CBD's efficacy, it has prompted further interest in researching cannabinoids as a complementary therapy in cancer care.

4. Patients' Perspectives on Cannabis Use During Cancer Treatment

A survey conducted by Cure Today gathered insights from cancer patients and survivors regarding their use of cannabis during treatment. Many reported benefits such as improved appetite, better sleep, and reduced anxiety. One participant noted, "I take it every night to sleep and to help with nausea during chemo. It’s much better than nausea meds." Others highlighted the potential of cannabis to replace opioid pain medications, with one survivor stating, "I’m a seven-year endometrial adenocarcinoma survivor! I hated opioid pain pills, a BIG YES that they should allow cannabis during treatments!"

5. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Study on CBD for Anxiety

A study by the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute explored the effects of CBD on scan-related anxiety in women with advanced breast cancer. While the results showed no significant difference between CBD and placebo in reducing anxiety levels, the CBD group experienced a notable reduction in overall anxiety. This suggests that CBD may have anxiolytic properties, offering potential benefits for patients experiencing anxiety related to cancer treatment.

Conclusion

These real-life stories illustrate the diverse ways in which cancer patients are incorporating CBD into their treatment regimens. While individual experiences vary, the reported benefits—such as pain relief, improved sleep, reduced anxiety, and enhanced quality of life—underscore the potential role of CBD as a complementary therapy in cancer care. However, it is crucial for patients to consult with their healthcare providers before adding CBD to their treatment plan, as interactions with other medications and treatments must be carefully considered. As research continues to evolve, these personal narratives contribute valuable insights into the lived experiences of cancer patients seeking alternative avenues for symptom management and overall well-being.

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References:

"My whole world just fell apart”- Twice breast cancer survivor on CBD and recovery. Cannabis Health News. https://cannabishealthnews.co.uk/2021/11/04/my-whole-world-just-fell-apart-twice-breast-cancer-survivor-discusses-cbd-cancer-and-recovery/

Lung cancer patient who had declined conventional cancer treatment: could the self-administration of 'CBD oil' be contributing to the observed tumour regression? PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34649854/

Patients, Survivors Share Perspectives on Cannabis During Cancer. Cure Today. https://www.curetoday.com/view/patients-survivors-share-perspectives-on-cannabis-during-cancer

Trial of CBD for cancer-related anxiety demonstrates intriguing findings. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. https://www.dana-farber.org/newsroom/news-releases/2024/trial-of-cbd-for-cancer-related-anxiety-demonstrates-intriguing-findings

Woman's tumour shrank after taking CBD oil daily for more than two years: case study. LocalNews8.com. [https://localnews8.com/cnn-regional/2021/11/05/womans-tumour-shrank-after-taking-cbd-oil-daily-for-more-than-two-years-case-study