It is a sad reality in the medical cannabis movement that some of our most loved friends become gravely ill. This is the case with our friend and AAMC Officer, Laura J. Carden. LJ’s contribution to the movement is enormous. Her letters to the editor, her tireless driving, her support of patients and caregivers are legendary. She never complains and never asks for assistance. Like most of us she is proud. Not only proud, this fighter is absolutely defiant in her mission to help the sick despite an uncaring and oppressive government. We don’t want to wait until yet another of our heroes is gone before we have a chance to say thank you and good-bye.

For two years LJ shuttled me all over California when I was too sick to drive. Many of us have traveled in Laura’s Ford "Canny Bus". Well, the old truck driver, NASCAR fan, lover of a good Budweiser, and lover of life is gravely ill. Having survived a collapsing spine and breast cancer, she has now been diagnosed with metastatic cancer to the brain. Most of you know that this is a battle quickly waged and seldom won expect in the most important arena, that of the spirit.

During the brief time left to LJ she wants to visit her family in Texas and Michigan. She also expresses a desire to expand this final "road trip" to meeting AAMC folks all over the country. Won’t you help her on this journey?

Over $2,000 has been immediately pledged for expenses. Her van is being fixed as this is written and maps and a driver obtained. Judy Ryland of the El Dorado County AAMC Chapter has volunteered to coordinate donations of every sort. You can reach Judy at: stoneypoint@mindsync.com.

If you’ve ever felt low or in need of some optimism and vigor you’ll want to help LJ. More importantly, you’ll want to meet her on this epic journey. Let us know where you live and LJ will fit you into the travel plans. See the Canny Bus and meet one of the feistiest and most compassionate people on the planet.

I’ve received Laura’s reluctant permission to post this appeal. She says to tell you all that if you can’t assist her that’s way OK. Try then to help your friends, neighbors, and family. I cannot overestimate how wonderful it is to participate and give to compassionate and right endeavor. Many of us live by this new purpose despite our own illness and problems.

Like so many others I’ve looked to LJ when I was in pain or despair and told myself that if she can make it so can I. Now it’s time to help. Please write Judy today.

Yours with love,

Jay R. Cavanaugh, PhD
National Director
American Alliance for Medical Cannabis
West Hills, CA
(818) 346-4493

Laura Carden

The Canny Bus