Medical cannabis info meeting Jan. 28

Iowans 4 Medical Cannabis will present an informational program on how Iowans might benefit from a medical cannabis program at 7 p.m. Wednesday in Whipple Auditorium at the Cedar Rapids Public Library.

Former Cedar Rapids resident Maria La France of Iowans 4 Medical Cannabis will present an overview of the group's efforts and background on scientific studies of cannabis to treat various diseases. Several examples of well-run state cannabis programs will be highlighted, along with patient testimonials and discussion about the difficulty researching cannabis because of federal restrictions.

Dale Todd of Cedar Rapids, legislative chairman for the Iowa Epilepsy Foundation, called La France 'one of the most knowledgeable and passionate advocates for safe medical access to cannabis in Iowa.”

Iowans 4 Medical Cannabis is not just advocating for epilepsy, but for cannabis use for other conditions such as cancer, Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis, post-traumatic stress disorder, Parkinson's and rare inflammatory diseases.

Iowans 4 Medical Cannabis is a coalition of individuals and organizations in favor of a safe and controlled medical cannabis program for qualifying health conditions. It is not associated with recreational use. Members include the Iowa Epilepsy Foundation, the National MS Society, the Iowa Brain Injury Alliance and the Iowa Easter Seals.