Rayann calls herself a traveling gnome because she grew up as the child of a Marine. They moved around a lot and she says that added to her social anxiety. Rayann and her wife eventually settled down in Eugene and became active in the medical and recreational scene. She considers herself a reserved person, but outspoken for equality and patient’s rights.
When did you start using Cannabis?
I started smoking Cannabis in 1996 as a teenager at local gatherings, and quickly realized the benefits I was receiving from smoking. By my early 20s I was using Cannabis medicinally daily. I lived my life for 20 years using the alternative market to ease my ailments. It wasn’t until 2013 when we moved back to the Pacific Northwest that I became a medical patient.
What conditions do you treat using Cannabis?
An accident left me with two titanium plates and nine screws in my leg, and on Christmas Eve 2019 I was diagnosed with Glaucoma. I’m a firm believer that my continued use of Cannabis throughout the years slowed its progression. I would consume Cannabis for migraines that would leave me incapacitated. Anxiety is a bitch to live with – often it makes meeting new people a challenge for me. I have to be constantly aware of my surroundings, such as lighting and noise levels, to prevent migraines from creeping up on me. Since being diagnosed I’ve definitely noticed a change in my vision.
What are your preferred methods for medicating?
My go-to method is good ole flower – there’s nothing like rolling a joint! I’ve tried many strains … I have a journal that’s simply a list of strains, the effects they had on me … until I was able to whittle down what worked best. Strains like Durban Poison have always been my go-to for what works best … I only trust a few farms with my flower needs, because as a patient, it’s hard for me to risk my money on getting an unpleasant strain. I also love edibles, or as I call them medibles, because let’s face it – everything we eat is edible, but not everything is medicated. … I prefer to make my own, but occasionally I love a good Wyld or Elbes edible. I enjoy a great Cannabis oil – I’ve tried several companies but my #1 go-to is White Label Extracts … their collaborations with Where’s My Bike by Benson Arbor, the Forbidden Fruit or GMO from Wee, to anything Geek Farms or Doghouse!
What do you love to do outside of the Cannabis space?
I love spending time with my pup Mr. Buddie Ray Gump – my 10-year-old diabetic chihuahua/pug mix, aka my ‘chug.’ Hobbies include traveling to new and exciting places with my wife so we can experience new things together. I love my family and friends. Camping and sitting round the campfire are huge for me – especially on the coast, because there’s nothing like that beach life.
