In 2021, when I started this blog, I had no idea the path it would take me on. What I thought was going to be a fun way to share my love for cannabis turned into a rollercoaster ride filled with drama, rumors, and more hurt than I could have ever imagined. For a while, I thought about walking away from the Missouri cannabis industry completely. It’s tough when something you love gets tainted by negativity, and I was worn out from it. But just when I was about to step away for good, the universe intervened in a way I never saw coming.
They say the universe has a way of slowing us down when we’re moving too fast in the wrong direction. I didn’t just slow down—I came to a screeching halt. On October 21, 2023, my life turned upside down when I was in a car accident that left me with a brain injury and multiple spine injuries.
When life throws you something like that, it breaks you, but it also forces you to rebuild. The growth that happens when your life is completely upended is something that words can hardly capture. It’s spiritual, it’s metaphysical, and it’s terrifying. I mentally fell apart in ways I couldn’t have imagined, but I also found pieces of myself I didn’t know I had. When everything is taken away—your health, your ability to function—you're forced to confront who you really are and what truly matters.
As if the accident wasn’t enough, two months later, in December, my dad was diagnosed with cancer. He began chemo in January, and that was another emotional earthquake. Being the oldest daughter is hard enough, but being the oldest daughter with a new brain injury, watching your dad fight for his life? That’s a level of stress that no one is prepared for. Thankfully, by the grace of whatever higher power is out there, my dad is now in remission. His strength through this journey has been nothing short of inspiring, and our family is so grateful for his progress and health.
But man, did that emotional toll hit hard. When you're battling your own body and trying to care for your family at the same time, it can feel impossible. I was fighting to heal while trying to be strong for everyone else, and I had to learn that it’s okay to take a step back for your own mental and emotional well-being.
This summer, I did just that—I stepped back. I took time off from the cannabis world to focus on my healing and my mental health. I spent the entire summer adventuring with my children, soaking up time with the people I love, and just... being. No agenda, no pressure, just me, my kids, and the healing power of nature, love, and cannabis.
After taking that time to refocus, I found myself drawn back to the cannabis industry—but with a new mindset and fresh energy. First, I returned to Vlasic Labs, a company I have believed in for years. Their focus on quality and the true benefits of cannabinoids makes it a dream to represent them.
Now, I’ve also found a home with Camp Cannabis, another incredible company that aligns with my values and passion for this plant. Being able to represent two brands I genuinely love is a dream come true. It’s not just about the business anymore; it’s about purpose, growth, and being in spaces that support both.
The future? It’s bright, and it’s filled with hope. One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in this journey is the difference between being good and being nice. Being good means you have boundaries and morals; it means you stand firm in who you are. Being nice, on the other hand, often means falling into people-pleasing patterns, and I’ve learned the hard way that I’m done with that. Boundaries are how we protect our peace, and I’m here to live in that truth.
Let’s talk about cannabis, because honestly, it has been a lifesaver. Access to legal cannabis has kept me from needing opioids during my healing process. I’ve taken them here and there, sure, but cannabis is my go-to. I don’t need opioids to function, and for that, I am eternally grateful. This plant has helped me navigate some of the darkest moments of my life, and I will forever be an advocate for its healing properties.
As I move forward, I’m beyond excited to see where this journey takes me. I’ve learned that we are only as limited as our minds allow us to be, and I refuse to let my injuries, the challenges, or the negativity define my future. I’m ready to continue growing, not just within myself but also within the cannabis industry, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
If you're interested in collaborating on blogs or Instagram posts, let's connect! Whether you’re a brand, a fellow advocate, or someone who’s simply curious about the world of cannabis, I’d love to chat. Let’s grow together.
Here’s to healing, hope, and the beautiful journey ahead.
Cecilia – The STL Stoner Mom