Aylsham multiple sclerosis sufferer says cannabis-based drug ‘changed my life’

Teresa Pointer, from Aylsham, whose MS has been helped by using a new drug based on cannabis plant extracts. PHOTO: ANTONY KELLY

Alex Hurrell, Reporter Saturday, July 13, 2013 10:00 AM

To send a link to this page to a friend, you must be logged in.

A new cannabis-based licensed drug has transformed the life of multiple sclerosis (MS) sufferer Teresa Pointer from Aylsham.

Mrs Pointer, 42, spotted an advertisement in the EDP eight years ago, asking people to take part in treatment trials at the James Paget University Hospital, Gorleston, and she has not looked back.

Today, thanks to two daily sprays of Sativex into her mouth, Mrs Pointer can sleep at night, walk for longer - and she has got her sense of humour back.

I got in touch with Dr Willy Notcutt at the James Paget and then started on a clinical trial of Sativex. It was the best decision Ive ever made and its done so much for me. It really has given me my life back, said Mrs Pointer, who lives with her husband and two daughters in Hungate Street.

She was diagnosed in 2004 with MS, a disease which affects nerves in the brain and spinal cord.

An increase in muscle tone, or spasticity, is a common symptom, causing involuntary muscle spasms, immobility, disturbed sleep, and pain.

Although MS is incurable, treatments and specialists can help sufferers manage their symptoms.

Go here to see the original:
Aylsham multiple sclerosis sufferer says cannabis-based drug ‘changed my life’