This past week has been a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by moments of concern, resilience, and unwavering determination. From navigating my father's health crisis to forging ahead with business endeavors, each day presented its own set of challenges and triumphs.
It all began with a sudden call from my father, a firefighter, complaining of difficulty breathing and chest discomfort. Despite his previous bouts of similar symptoms, I knew this time was different. Rushing to his aid as both a paramedic and a concerned son, I found myself faced with the harsh reality of a pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening condition. Despite initial setbacks during the attempted procedure to remove the blood clots, I remained steadfast in my belief that he was in the right place, surrounded by expert medical care.
As my father underwent further evaluation and treatment, I grappled with my own health concerns, succumbing to a respiratory illness that left me confined to the sidelines. Unable to be by my father's side in the hospital or provide support to his wife, who suffers from dementia, I felt a sense of helplessness overshadowed by a fervent desire to ensure their well-being.
Yet, amidst the chaos of personal and familial challenges, there emerged a glimmer of hope and excitement on the business front. With plans for collaborations with a skydiving company and innovative marketing strategies taking shape, Change the Stigma continues to defy expectations and break new ground in the cannabis industry.
Our upcoming presence at the Toasted Jam Six event in Springfield, Massachusetts, on April 19 and 20 marks a significant milestone in our journey. As we prepare for our official launch on April 20, we eagerly anticipate sharing our vision with a wider audience and celebrating with free cannabis giveaways.
Despite the hurdles we've faced this week, both personally and professionally, I'm reminded of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of community support. As my family and I work to overcome illness and adversity, we remain steadfast in our commitment to each other and to the mission of Change the Stigma.
So as Easter morning dawns and my son battles a bout of illness alongside me, I'm filled with gratitude for the strength of my loved ones and the opportunities that lie ahead. Together, we will weather the storms, celebrate the victories, and continue to pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.
Stay tuned for more updates and join us as we embark on this journey of healing, growth, and transformation. Let's change the stigma, one step at a time.