FINISH THE FILM

So, it has been years since you heard anything about the progress of our documentary on medical cannabis. Several events arose that shelved the film — the pandemic, health problems, caretaking a 97 year old relative declining from dementia, relocating, and gradual return to health. Because shooting ceased with covid, I went back to school during that time in a new program at the U Maryland Pharmacy School to obtain an MS in Medical Cannabis: Science & Therapeutics. Now it’s time to finish. Here I am with an update.

What the documentary covers

Medical Marijuana: Understanding Cannabis as Medicine is a feature-length documentary that explores the medical use of cannabis through two equally important lenses:

• The science — what researchers are discovering about cannabinoids, the endocannabinoid system, and therapeutic applications
• The human experience — patients and families navigating illness, uncertainty, hope, and healing

The film was actively in production when the COVID-19 pandemic halted filming worldwide. Rather than rush an incomplete or outdated version, production was paused. Since then, the science has accelerated, policies have shifted, and the need for clear, evidence-based medical cannabis education has never been greater. Now, with key participants ready to be on camera, we are completing the film.

Why this film matters — now

Medical cannabis sits at the intersection of rapidly emerging research, widespread public use, conflicting information and misinformation — and real patients making real health decisions. Patients, caregivers, and clinicians are often left without clear, trustworthy guidance.

This documentary exists to:

• Translate complex medical research into accessible understanding
• Present patient voices without exaggeration or hype
• Present cannabis as medicine with nuance, responsibility, and compassion

This documentary is an educational, ethics-driven exploration of how science and lived experience meet.

The human stories at the heart of the film

The film features:

• Patients living with serious and chronic conditions, sharing what it means to integrate cannabis into real medical care
• Clinicians and researchers working at the forefront of cannabis science
• Voices grounded in evidence, ethics, and patient safety

These are not abstract debates. They are human stories unfolding alongside scientific discovery. The footage already captured remains powerful, relevant, and deeply human. The final chapter will bring the science fully up to date.

Where the project stands today

• ✔ Substantial footage already filmed
• ✔ Patients and leading researchers already interviewed
• ✔ Key update interviews confirmed and ready to shoot
• ✔ Clear editorial vision and experienced director in place
• ✔ Nonprofit fiscal sponsor secured

What remains is needed is completion funds.

What your support makes possible

Your donation supports:

• Final filming: Updating interviews with key researchers and participants to reflect the latest science
• Post-production: Editing, sound design, color correction, and final mastering
• Scientific review & accuracy: Ensuring all medical information is current, responsible, and evidence-aligned
• Distribution & educational impact: Preparing the film for screenings, educational use, and public access

Fiscal sponsorship & tax-deductible donations

Medical Marijuana: Understanding Cannabis as Medicine is fiscally sponsored by From the Heart Productions, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law and are used exclusively to complete the film. Donations are processed through From the Heart Productions on behalf of the project.

How you can help

• Make a tax-deductible donation to help finish the film
• Share this page with individuals or organizations aligned with health, science, or patient education
• Contact us if you are interested in lead gifts, sponsorship, or impact screenings

This film has waited for the right moment. That moment is now.

About the filmmaker

The film is directed by Roz Dauber, award-winning documentary filmmaker, former journalism professor, certified medical cannabis educator, and patient advocate. Her work bridges science, ethics, and human experience, with a long-standing commitment to accuracy, dignity, and compassionate storytelling.