Hannah Deacon, a tireless medical cannabis advocate in the UK as well as elsewhere, has passed away.
Hannah, one of its founders. Medcan Family FoundationThis group works with families who have severe, complex epilepsy and are resistant to treatments to ensure that they can access marijuana-based medication.
Hannah founded the organization after a long and arduous battle for a prescription of medical cannabis to treat her son Alfie, who suffers from an epilepsy form that is extremely rare: PCDH19. This condition causes early-onset epilepsy, as well as cognitive and behavioral issues. Alfie’s condition improved dramatically after receiving a cannabis-based medicine in The Netherlands where the drug was legal.
Hannah’s role was crucial in the change of law in 2018, which allowed for the prescription of medical cannabis in UK. Alfie, who is one the NHS’s first permanent cannabis licensees, also played an important part in this.
Posting a statement on Hannah’s website states:
Hannah was remarkable, determined, tenacious and fiercely compassionate. She fought to treat her son Alfie’s severe and rare epilepsy, which led to a breakthrough. This changed Alfie’s life, and changed the law. She transformed the lives of thousands, including families and patients.
Hannah was diagnosed with cancer only recently, on March 27, this year. She will be leaving her positions with the Medcan Family Foundation. Maple Tree ConsultantsThis guide will help you navigate the complex process of entering the UK medical cannabis market.
Hannah Deacon passed away on May 6th, surrounded by her loved ones. She had suffered from a “short and brutal illness”. Hannah was 45.
Hannah was a beautiful daughter, partner, sister and friend. Just by being in her presence, she made us laugh and think. Knowing her has made us all stronger. “We only wish that we had more time.”
Hannah Deacon has made great efforts to help families access medical cannabis. However, the regulatory barriers, lack of funds, training and knowledge, and red tape are still obstacles to effective treatment. Many UK families have to obtain medicinal cannabis illegally for their children.