The Marijuana Hero in Australia: A Doctor That Has Been Arrested Several Times and Who Carries out Research Hidden in a Wardrobe

For more than a decade, Dr Andrew Katelaris has worked in Australia using an improvised laboratory hidden inside his wardrobe. The secret hidden within is highly valued by sick people that need alternatives they can use to keep living. This secret also faces great persecution within the country.

For years, the doctor has been producing medicinal oil for his patients, made using cannabis, and he has tried to keep well away from the authorities. Even so, he has been arrested on several occasions and he believes it is strange that, well into the 21st century, it is necessary “to hide the production of medication used to save lives”. Despite the fact that he is aware of the possibility of recurring problems with the authorities, he has continued to research the use of marijuana for medical purposes and to create remedies for certain symptoms, especially those caused by childhood epilepsy.

The medic, who was the star of the documentary “The pot doctor”, asserts that the risk is well worth it when it comes to helping a child and he is not willing to accept that it is not possible to use something that helps people. Also, he opposes those who think that he is sacrificing his career for something that has not been legally accepted. “I am not sacrificing my career, this is my career”, is how Katelaris responds to them.

Luckily for Australian patients, a month ago a Senate committee unanimously passed a draft bill to legalise medical cannabis. Supporters believe that this is an important step towards real regulation. The measure would provide special relief for families of Australian children that need marijuana to overcome their illnesses.

However, some time will be needed for legalisation to take place. Furthermore, some medical professionals in the country still do not fully trust the plant; therefore they will need more time in order to see the benefits reported by patients with their own eyes. Whatever happens, Katelaris’ work will continue. The doctor states that he is willing to go to court in order to end the ban.