Valerie Corral

Valerie Corral is an American medical cannabis rights activist and co-founder of the Wo/Men's Alliance for Medical Marijuana (WAMM), a non-profit collective that provides medical marijuana to patients with serious illnesses. She is widely recognized for her pioneering work in the medical cannabis movement and her advocacy for patients' rights.

Early Life

Valerie Corral was born in California. Her journey into medical cannabis advocacy began after a car accident in the 1970s left her with severe epilepsy. Traditional medications were ineffective in controlling her seizures, leading her to explore alternative treatments. She discovered that cannabis significantly reduced the frequency and severity of her seizures, which set her on a path of activism.

Founding of WAMM

In 1993, Valerie Corral and her then-husband, Mike Corral, co-founded the Wo/Men's Alliance for Medical Marijuana (WAMM) in Santa Cruz, California. WAMM operates as a collective, providing medical marijuana to patients with serious illnesses such as cancer, AIDS, and multiple sclerosis. The organization is known for its compassionate approach, offering cannabis at no cost to those who cannot afford it.

Legal Challenges

Valerie Corral has faced numerous legal challenges due to her work with medical cannabis. In 2002, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) raided WAMM's garden, destroying plants and arresting Valerie and Mike Corral. The raid sparked widespread outrage and led to increased support for medical cannabis legalization. The Corrals were eventually released, and WAMM continued its operations.

Advocacy and Impact

Valerie Corral has been a vocal advocate for medical cannabis patients' rights. She has worked closely with lawmakers, participated in numerous conferences, and provided testimony in support of medical cannabis legislation. Her efforts have contributed to the broader acceptance and legalization of medical cannabis in several states.

Recognition

Valerie Corral's work has earned her numerous accolades and recognition within the medical cannabis community. She is considered a pioneer in the field and continues to inspire others through her dedication and advocacy.

See Also

• Medical cannabis
• Cannabis in California
• Drug policy of California
• List of medical cannabis organizations

Related Pages

• Wo/Men's Alliance for Medical Marijuana
• Medical cannabis
• Cannabis in California
• Drug policy of California