The Haaretz article is typically poorly written and clearly they have no editors on staff of any kind, but it’s important that Haaretz cover news of the suffering patients who are receiving medical marijuana, so that other 88-year old women and 14-year old children don’t have to fear asking their doctors about a medication that can alleviate their pain and suffering and improve their quality of life.

Ministry approves marijuana for 14-year-old cancer patient – Haaretz – Israel News.
medical marijuana
A 14-year-old girl with hematological cancer may receive marijuana, the Health Ministry decided.

The girl has been receiving treatment at a pediatric oncology clinic at Rambam Medical Center in Haifa for several months, and is suffering from the side effects of intensive chemotherapy, including pain and loss of appetite.

Her doctors recommended marijuana to treat these problems. The Health Ministry approved the request last week, and she began receiving marijuana joints on Friday. The hospital said that although smoking by children is problematic, the joints have improved her condition.

Ayelet Ben Barak, a senior physician in the department treating the teen, said, “Because of the problematic nature of smoking at these ages, we are looking into administrating the marijuana by other means.”

An 88-year-old woman with chronic pain has asked to receive marijuana cookies.

About 800 patients in Israel currently receive medicinal marijuana. Fewer than 10 are under age 18.