I lived in the constant fear of police visit
Philip Antony Bevington 82, from Cornwall FORMER agricultural teacher Philip has stage three kidney disease and felt forced to break the law and grow his own cannabis to alleviate his symptoms before it was made legal on prescription in the UK.
Widower Philip, who vapes the drug, was given a two-year suspended sentence for growing plants.
He said when he found out about his diagnosis he “was determined to find a way to help myself” and began cultivating plants.
“My condition improved leaps and bounds,” said Philip. “My kidney disease readings improved, my pain went, I was eating better. I was sleeping incredibly well and I felt fine. Essentially, I went back to normal.
“Though I loved the growing side, I lived in constant fear, always expecting a visit from the police.
“I never felt guilty, I was saving my own life. I was just scared and angry the law was unable to recognise how this amazing plant was benefiting me.”
Although he now has access to a private legal prescription, Philip said the standard is “abysmal” and very expensive.
He added: “If I was presented with a similar scenario I would do it again, despite the fear and paranoia.”