With the release of its eighth edition of the INvisible Project on April 15, U.S. Pain is tackling the stigma of medical cannabis. The issue features the raw but often inspiring stories and photos of 10 individuals using cannabis to help manage their chronic health issues.

The INvisible Project was first published in 2010 as a way to create more awareness about the trials and triumphs of people living with pain. Last year, an estimated 65,000 copies were distributed. Patients’ stories are also featured on displays, which are then exhibited at conferences and events across the country.

Some examples of the stories in the INvisible Project medical cannabis issue:

• Roger Martin, who has lived for years with chronic pain from Hepatitis C, as well as serious leg and shoulder injuries sustained while in the military. Now 65, Martin says cannabis saved his life. He went on to found Grow for Vets USA, which provides veterans with free medical cannabis and hemp products.
• Steven Goldberg*, who began suffering from severe anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, and depression at the age of 8. Now an eighth grader, he has been able to return to a traditional school setting thanks to CBD oil.
• Sailene Ossman, who suffered a near-fatal car accident that left her in severe pain at age 19. Ossman says cannabis worked miracles for her. She currently runs a medical cannabis delivery service in Los Angeles and advocates for cannabis education and legalization.

This edition also features articles about topics including advocacy, medical research, legal issues, common misconceptions and much more. To read the stories in this issue, visit the INvisible Project website. To request a copy, email [email protected].

*Name changed to protect privacy.