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(Image from the Cathy Jordan Movie Facebook Page)

The world has lost a remarkable advocate and beloved friend in Cathy Jordan, who passed away on July 4th at her home in South Florida at the age of 74. Her life was a testament to courage and resilience, and her legacy as a pioneer in the fight for medical cannabis rights will continue to inspire countless individuals.

Cathy’s journey began in 1986 when she was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a condition that typically limits life expectancy to two to five years. Despite this grim prognosis, Cathy defied the odds and lived 38 years beyond her diagnosis, a feat she credited to medical cannabis.

In 1989, while vacationing in Florida, Cathy discovered a chemovar of cannabis known as Myakka Gold. In a pivotal moment of her life, she smoked it and felt the disease's progression halt. This revelation marked the beginning of her lifelong advocacy for medical cannabis. Despite skepticism from medical professionals and potential legal ramifications, Cathy was determined to share her story and promote the healing potential of cannabis.

Cathy’s commitment to the cause led her to co-found and serve as president of the Florida Cannabis Action Network (FL CAN), where she worked tirelessly to change cannabis laws at the state and federal levels. She took part in ASA's first action on June 6 2002 serving DEA offices with "Cease and Desist" orders Over the following decades, I had the pleasure of working with Cathy on Capitol Hill and in the courts where we served as co-plaintiffs in the landmark case.   ASA v. DEA, where we challenged the federal government's stance on medical cannabis. Her efforts were recognized in 2012 when she received the ASA Courage Award, acknowledging her bravery and impact.

Her journey was not without challenges. In 2013, Cathy was arrested for cultivating cannabis, a strain developed specifically to treat her condition. However, the charges were dropped, highlighting the contentious legal landscape she navigated in her pursuit of justice and compassion.

Cathy’s unwavering determination was pivotal in changing public perception and laws surrounding medical cannabis. Her testimony against the Florida Legislature’s 2017 ban on smokable marijuana was instrumental in the eventual reversal of the ban under Governor Ron DeSantis in 2019. Her activism played a crucial role in the passage of Florida's medical marijuana amendment, which gained overwhelming support from voters.

Cathy’s legacy is not only in the legislative victories she helped achieve but also in the lives she touched through her advocacy. She inspired patients, lawmakers, and activists with her relentless spirit and unwavering belief in the healing power of cannabis. Her story serves as a reminder that courage and conviction can drive meaningful change, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.

As we remember Cathy Jordan, we honor her as a warrior who transformed her struggle into a powerful movement. Her life and work will continue to inspire those who fight for compassionate care and the rights of patients everywhere.

I will miss my friend, who loved the power of shock and awe, never shied from a challenge, and could make me laugh to my core. I will miss scheming you and your infectious optimism that access to cannabis is going to happen for everyone. I hope there was a pair of 5-inch heels and Harley waiting for you on the other side. 

Rest in peace, Cathy. Your legacy will forever be a guiding light in the journey toward justice and healing. You are already missed, my friend.