The effects of the change in the law
Shortly after the law was amended, the board held numerous online discussions with various parties. Many were interested in learning from patients' experiences. Our board is very well informed about the situation in Switzerland and internationally. However, this sought-after information was not given away for free; rather, we asked our contacts to support us as sponsors. We have now gained over 25 corporate members who support us with contributions ranging from CHF 200 to CHF 1,000 per year. We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all our supporters!
Events and public relations
The first event of 2023 was the online general meeting on April 20th. The annual report and financial statements were presented to the members in attendance. This was followed by engaging discussions about the situation of patients and the future of the Association .
From May 12th to 14th, 2023, CannaTrade took place after a long hiatus. The MEDCAN Association was present with a booth and provided information about the medical use of cannabis for three days. Franziska and Felix also participated in a panel discussion on the topic of medical cannabis use in Switzerland. We would like to sincerely thank the organizers, who consistently provide us with a platform to give patients a voice.
On June 6th, Franziska and Simon were invited by the Stauffacher Pharmacy in Zurich, the first pharmacy to specialize in the medical use of cannabis. Our Association received a warm welcome, and the pharmacy staff asked our members detailed questions. Our new website also lists other pharmacies that are knowledgeable about the medical use of cannabis. MEDCAN is happy to take the time to visit pharmacies and explain what patients need.
National and international partnerships
Felix participated in the meetings of the Swiss Society for Cannabis in Medicine (SGCM) throughout the year. He is a member of the board of this medical professional organization and represents the patients' perspective. Many thanks for his dedication.
Simon attended the weekly meetings of the IACM Patient Council. This coalition of international cannabis patient organizations is working to bring about change at the international level. Simon represents Swiss patients and actively participates in the meetings. Thank you very much for your commitment.
Ongoing work and future prospects
The work continued at an even more intensive pace in the second half of the year. Numerous phone calls were made, information was disseminated, and all printed materials and the website had to be revised following the change in the law. The new website is now online in four languages.
In early November, the first information event about cannabis in medicine took place in Lucerne. Together with medical professionals, Simon welcomed people to the University of Lucerne who wanted to learn about the medical applications of cannabis. Nearly 80 people attended, and the event was considered a success. We also plan to hold information events and webinars in 2024.
We would like to sincerely thank all our members and supporters. We look forward to advancing the Association in 2024 and continuing our advocacy for the medical use of cannabis.
