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What We Are Fighting For

There are over 20 million military veterans and tens of millions of active and retired first responders. In the shadows, a countless number of these heroes are desperately struggling with addiction to deadly drugs prescribed for service related injuries and psychological disorders. HeroGrown® Foundation is the preeminent organization fighting for their right to choose cannabis as a safe alternative. 

While risky prescription drugs are often free through the VA or insurance, heavily regulated and taxed marijuana can cost over $50 per day. We aim to make cannabis a viable alternative to prescription drugs by providing it free to veterans and first responders in need. We are also working to build a discount network around the country with licensed dispensaries.

American Heroes deserve the right to use the medicine of their choice without risking their job, medical benefits, or freedom. In addition to providing direct assistance to thousands of veterans and first responders, we work to stop employers, health insurers, and the government from discriminating against cannabis users.

WHY CANNABIS?

Centuries of medical use, backed by modern research

Marijuana, more accurately  referred to as cannabis, has been used as medicine for thousands of years. And cutting-edge medical research seems to confirm that cannabis is a valuable aid for a wide range health challenges. These include post-traumatic stress, pain, nausea, spasticity, and movement disorders¹. Cannabis is also commonly used as a natural appetite stimulant.

According to NORML, more than 60 U.S. and international health organizations support granting patients immediate legal access to medicinal marijuana under a physician’s supervision and the majority of US states now regulate its retail access.

Science vs Stereotypes

Cannabis is a dangerous drug without any medical uses; An 85-year-old narrative rooted in corruption, greed, and racism. A blatant fabrication that has inflicted unimaginable suffering on millions of Americans. A lie that has separated families, taken away livelihoods, and caused unneeded suffering for the sick and dying.  Nearly a century after cannabis and hemp were first criminalized and demonized, it’s time we let science and real-life experiences take precedence over the unjust stigma and stereotypes. 
  • Regardless of either quantity or potency, cannabis cannot cause lethal overdose in humans²
  • State-based cannabis legalization has lowered crime rates²
  • In states where medical cannabis is legal, opioid-related mortality has fallen significantly²
  • Cannabis is more likely to be used as an “exit” from dangerous drugs than to act as a “gateway” drug² 
Even more compelling than scientific data are the first-hand Stories of Hope from Veterans. HeroGrown® fights to ‘Liberate Cannabis’ on behalf of these heroes, along with the millions other Americans suffering silently in the shadows.

Why Medicinal Mushrooms?

Centuries Enriched with Healing Practices and Scientific Exploration

Medicinal mushrooms, including psychedelic variants, have seamlessly woven into the tapestry of therapeutic practices across diverse cultures for centuries. Indigenous shamans utilized psilocybin mushrooms for spiritual and healing journeys, while modern science unravels potential applications of fungi like Reishi, Cordyceps, and Lion’s Mane in modulating immunity, managing stress, and enhancing cognitive functions². Psychedelic mushrooms have embarked on a scientific journey, exploring their prospects in addressing psychological challenges such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD².

Science vs Stereotypes

Despite being submerged under recreational stereotypes, psychedelic mushrooms are emerging into the limelight for their prospective medicinal properties. Science now peers into the depths of psilocybin mushrooms, exploring their capabilities in neurogenesis and providing alternative pathways for mental health interventions. Current investigations into psilocybin-assisted therapy showcase promising outcomes in managing persistent depression, anxiety, and varied mental health ailments².

Dissecting Stigmas and Embracing Empirical Evidences

Similar to the hurdles encountered by cannabis, the journey of medicinal and psychedelic mushrooms is intertwined with the struggles against deep-rooted stigmas and legal hindrances. Notwithstanding the escalating evidences that underline their potential therapeutic advantages, psychedelic mushrooms remain enveloped in skepticism and are categorized as prohibited substances in various jurisdictions.

Psilocybin, identified as the active ingredient in psychedelic mushrooms, has been demonstrated in numerous studies to potentially exhibit therapeutic benefits, with minimal side-effects and a low propensity for addiction, especially within a controlled, therapeutic environment².

Recent scientific endeavors underscore the mushroom’s capabilities in mitigating mental health crises, enhancing life quality, and facilitating palliative care².
Specific cases of individuals grappling with treatment-resistant depression have witnessed relief through regulated and supervised psilocybin therapies².

IN MEMORY OF ROGER B. MARTIN • 1952 - 2020​​