Curaleaf in Hanover is partnering with the Frank’s Friends initiative to provide medicinal cannabis discounts for low-income patients diagnosed with HIV/AIDS.
Frank Shaw started the program last year, and said it’s the first partnership on the South Shore. Qualifying patients will receive 50 percent off products and services.
“I started the Frank’s Friends initiative because I discovered that low-income HIV/AIDS patients were struggling to afford access to life-changing medical marijuana in Massachusetts,” said Shaw.
Shaw said medication for HIV/AIDS is expensive, and because of the federal legality of cannabis, the medication is not covered by health insurance.
He’s hoping to expand the program statewide. Five Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers are enrolled.
Shaw says he has neuropathy on his feet due to early AIDS medication. He uses medical cannabis to help him sleep and alleviate pain.
“Originally, the doctors gave me Neurontin, and that never worked,” said Shaw. “After I started using cannabis on a regular basis, I discovered that the peripheral neuropathy in my feet subsided.”
To qualify, residents must have a medical marijuana card, proof of HIV/AIDS diagnosis, and verification of financial hardship.
In addition to Hanover, Curaleaf is offering discounts at its Oxford, Mass. location.
“Don’t let your low-income status stop you from getting access to medical marijuana,” said Shaw. “My program is focused on helping you.”
More information about the Frank’s Friends initiative can be found here.
