Cancer Patient in Iowa dies during Marijuana Fight
Posted by Sagar Satapathy on January 13, 2015.
A cancer patient from Iowa, who was convicted for growing medical marijuana, finally lost the battle with the deadly disease. The 49-year-old Benton Mackenzie, was sentenced to probation in September 2014, but his health condition deteriorated during the trial, which eventually led to his death.
In July 2014, Mackenzie faced trial for growing medical marijuana at home to make oil to be used in the treatment of his tumors. He and his wife, Loretta Mackenzie, were convicted in Iowa district court for marijuana manufacturing and conspiracy. Their son, Cody, was convicted of drug possession. However, the family was sentenced to probation instead of prison.
After his conviction, Mackenzie traveled to Oregon, where medical marijuana is legal. He was reportedly treated there. However, that could not save his life. Medical marijuana is legal in 23 states in the U.S. At least 10 others have legalized medical use of CBD Oil, which Mackenzie needed for his treatment. Mackenzie suffered from severe angiosarcoma, a rare form of cancer that produces large skin lesions.
Benton Mackenzie's wife and family vowed to fight the cause even they lost him. They have decided to take Benton’s case to the state supreme court, so that changes in the law can be made to prevent any more death. The family believes that although he was not sent to prison, he was beaten by cancer after his marijuana was taken away from him. Loretta wants her husband’s story to save other cancer patients. She says, “I have a pretty strong feeling that the law is going to change because of him.” comments powered by Disqus
