Medicinal Cannabis Awareness Week (MCAW) is an annual event that aims to educate, inform, and advocate for the benefits of medicinal cannabis in Australia. The event, which runs from February 19 to 25, coincides with the seventh anniversary of the legalization of medicinal cannabis in the country and the eighth anniversary of the passing of Dan Haslam, a young patient who fought for his right to access the medicine that improved his quality of life.
The History of MCAW
MCAW was launched in February 2023 by the Australian Medicinal Cannabis Association (AMCA), a non-profit organization that represents patients, carers, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, researchers, and industry professionals who are involved in the medicinal cannabis sector. AMCA was co-founded by Lucy Haslam, Dan’s mother, who has been a vocal advocate for medicinal cannabis since her son’s diagnosis of terminal bowel cancer in 2010.
Lucy Haslam told Cannabiz that MCAW was inspired by the need to raise awareness and combat stigma around medicinal cannabis, which is still faced by many patients and prescribers in Australia. She said that despite the legalization of medicinal cannabis in 2016, many barriers and challenges remain, such as excessive costs, outdated driving and employment laws, and a lack of education and support from some healthcare professionals.
“MCAW serves as a nationwide platform to foster meaningful conversation, education, and acceptance of medicinal cannabis within the healthcare system. It aims to dispel misconceptions, challenge stigma, and emphasize the significant therapeutic benefits that medicinal cannabis may offer to countless Australians in need,” she said.
The Activities of MCAW
MCAW features a range of activities and events that are designed to engage and inform the public, the media, and the medical community about medicinal cannabis. Some of the highlights of MCAW 2024 include:
- The release of a new documentary film, “Dan’s Legacy,” which chronicles the story of Dan Haslam and his family and their campaign to legalize medicinal cannabis in Australia. The film, which is directed by Helen Kapalos, will be screened at selected cinemas and online platforms during MCAW.
- The launch of a new website, Medicinal Cannabis Facts, which provides evidence-based information and resources on medicinal cannabis, such as how it works, what conditions it can treat, how to access it, and how to use it safely and effectively. The website also features testimonials and stories from patients and doctors who have experienced the benefits of medicinal cannabis.
- The hosting of a series of webinars, podcasts, and workshops covering topics such as the science of medicinal cannabis, the legal and regulatory framework, the patient journey, the role of pharmacists, the challenges of driving and employment, and the future of the industry. The events will feature speakers and experts from various fields and backgrounds, such as researchers, clinicians, lawyers, advocates, and patients.
- The distribution of a hummingbird logo, which is a symbol of the truth, and the patient-led movement for medicinal cannabis in Australia. The logo was chosen by Dan Haslam in 2014, based on a photograph of a hummingbird hovering over a cannabis flower, taken by a disabled patient in the US, Jeff Scheetz. MCAW encourages supporters to use the logo in their communications and social media posts to show solidarity and raise awareness.
The Impact of MCAW
MCAW hopes to have a positive and lasting impact on the perception and acceptance of medicinal cannabis in Australia and to improve the access and quality of care for patients who need it. MCAW also hopes to inspire more research and innovation in the field of medicinal cannabis and to support the growth and development of the Australian industry, which is recognized as world-class and able to relieve much human suffering.
MCAW invites everyone interested in medicinal cannabis to join the conversation and learn more about this plant medicine. MCAW also welcomes donations and memberships from individuals and organizations who want to support its work and vision.
With the support of the community, MCAW can reach more Australians, build awareness, and move towards a world-class medicinal cannabis system.