Gabrielle got her start in Cannabis like any of us, smoking with her siblings before it turned into a lifestyle. She had surgery to correct two herniated disks in 2020 at age 19 and used Cannabis before and after the surgery to mitigate pain and discomfort. Finding her footing in the industry with a shop like Green Point Wellness has opened a world of knowledge and possibilities that brighten her world and make her excited to come to work every day. Inspiring stories like hers create and reignite the passion for the plant we all hold deep inside. Be sure to stop and say hey to Gabrielle when you’re in Linthicum!
Tell me about how you got into smoking Cannabis…
When I was a teenager, I smoked with my sister here and there, obviously. But back in 2019, I herniated a couple of discs in my back and ended up needing surgery in 2020 at the age of 19. For about a year, I was dealing with some pretty serious chronic back pain. My sciatic nerve was completely pressed on one side, and I couldn’t stand for more than a couple of minutes without lightheadedness and shooting pain. I started smoking a lot more during that time because it made the pain of moving around a little bit easier. Everyone started smoking more weed during COVID, and even if I wanted to go out during that time — which no one could — I physically wouldn’t have been able to. This made me realize how badly chronic pain could impact your life, and for over a year I couldn’t even stand in the shower. Getting into weed and smoking a lot during that time eased the chronic pain I was living through until I had surgery.
How did you get your start in the industry?
I was processing loans for a mortgage company before I came here, and it was fun for a long time, but that industry began to die. It taught me a lot of corporate structure, which was cool, but by the time I was done, I was beyond stressed going to work every day. I looked around, and my friend, who’s a Cannabis influencer, was pushing me to get into the industry. I started right around 4/20 last year, and it’s been amazing.
What is a special moment you’ve had working at GPW?
There are a lot of really wonderful things about working here, but the overall aspect of learning stands out to me. When I got hired, I didn’t even know what a terpene was and didn’t understand the relationship between THC and terpenes. There were a lot of things that I hadn’t explored yet, and talking with co-workers and customers every day helped me. I love both sides of the industry — medical and recreational — but I’m glad I started working here during medical because it taught me so much about treating issues with Cannabis products and more aspects than just getting high.
Do you have a favorite stoner movie?
I do! My only weed-related tattoo is a reference to my favorite stoner movie, “Dazed and Confused.” My dad showed it to me in high school because he grew up in Texas in the ’70s, had an older sister who was a senior while he was a freshman, and the main character’s first name is Mitch and our last name is Mitchell. It is literally about him. So I have a “party at the moontower” tattoo.
What are some of your favorite edibles to keep on hand?
My go-to is the black cherry 40 mg gummies from Hi Color and their RSO gummies. The sativa RSO gummies from Hi Color are so, so good. Also Wyld’s Sour Apple gummies, which are only in 10 mg right now, but I am waiting for Wyld to make that flavor in higher dosages. Wyld, if you hear me, I need the high-dose sour apples!
Tell me about your favorite concert you’ve ever been to…
An upcoming concert, because I already know it’s going to be my favorite. I’m going to see Taylor Swift in a few weeks with my mom in Vancouver. I know people go back and forth on loving and hating Taylor Swift, but I love her. I’ve seen her a few times, but this will be the last night of her tour, and this is my Super Bowl.
