I have written about my cousin's girlfriend, but deleted the

Physical Health Chronic Illnesses & Conditions
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I have written about my cousin's girlfriend, but deleted the post and decided to write again.

She was diagnosed to lupus in 2008. She also has RA, diabetes, high blood pressure, fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal issues, kidney problems, depression and maybe others. She has done chemo twice in last two years and had a heart attack once. She is in early 40's, a smoker and heavy drinker. Her doc recommended her to smoke marijuana for her pains. So, she smokes like a chimney and shares the weed with my cousin and her older son who are healthy.

Recently, she received a huge backpay from SSI and is spending for more alcohol, weeds and entertainments such as new tv, cable, games for kids (she has three kids from her previous marriages). I have told my cousin many times to tell her to stop drinking and, spend money wisely for the medical bills and kids' educations. They just don't listen to me and now she bans him to contact me anymore. And I heard they got engaged because he has nowhere to go but her place and she gets money from SSI (backpay was about $30,000 and $600/month after that). But he told me as long as she smokes weed, she can move. I am feeling like they are going to a black hole...

Do other lupus patients smoke marijuana for joint pains? Although she has a license to smoke Marijuana, money issue is coming up soon, I think.

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My friend who has lupus have been given medicinal marijuana on two occasions. Once it was for the pain and another was so that she could eat. She is young and actually does not like the idea of using it, but I have heard that this is something that works for some people. Have you ever considered doing a bit of researching and helping them find alternatives if you believe this is a problem? I am really sorry that you are going through this with your cousin. I say if there is nothing direct that you can do, at least try to be there for your cousin as much as possibly. Hang in there and stay strong.

Hugs,
K.G.

1 Heart
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@KGShiva, thank you very much for your kind thoughts. Both of them are alcoholics and like to smoke weed. They argue a lot about money and jealousy daily, so they drink more to make up. I have tried to introduce a local AA group but they refused to go due to his work schedule. Their lives are mess. I just pray and wait until he seeks for help. Again, K.G. thank you.