Quote Originally Posted by lovemyhens
I am diagnosed w/ seronegative ra. I was how I would approach my rhuematologist with a recommondation. I have a pretty good feeling that she won't recommend me, but i don't think i can get a recommendation through another doc unless they are a rhuematologist.

I also have had cronic back pain, and i have been seeing a chiropractor religously for over 3 years, but he definately doesn't support the NM MM laws. I live in the bible belt of NM and I am a bit intimidated to approach a doc.
Lovemyhens,

I have finally found someone who has a similar condition! My wife has RA that she was diagnosed with 2 years ago. About a year later I started developing similar symptoms where my body is attacking my joints. After MANY rounds of bloodwork and review of all my radiological data, I have some sort of autoimmune disease that they have not been able to pin down.

My pain management doctor of two years was the one to recommend cannabis. I brought this up with my Rheumatologist and while she was reluctant to recommend this, she is ALL for me pursuing this course of action.

For me, it was really not a huge issue to become a patient in the program. The hardest part was actually getting up the courage to openly discuss this form of treatment with my doctors. Every one of them that I approached had NO issues with me pursuing this.

I found that with all of the issues that I have, the relationships I have with my doctors, and being open and honest was the key to success in obtaining the recommendations and ultimate approval in May for the program.

I am under the chronic pain category but also qualify under the autoimmune mediated arthritis category as well.

I am in the greater ABQ area.

Best of luck and let me know if I can help!

Sandia