Dad of the Month – September 2015 – Klaus Polttila

I was lucky to be introduced to Klaus Polttila through some mutual friends, what can I say, the man is awesome!  He is down to earth and is really compassionate about weed.  Talking to him at times really got me thinking about what I really know about this amazing plant and its untapped medical benefits. He challenged me to research the medical studies being released weekly about marijuana and so I am.  I’ve heard some amazing stories, now it’s time to read about the findings.

Klaus was born and raised in Connecticut.  He met his wife early in life and chose to start a family before the age of 20.  He and his wife have two children, a son who is 18 and in college, and a 9 year old daughter that has him “wrapped around her finger.”  I definitely know the feeling, my girls are my world!  His goals now are to put both his children through college and see them as happy adults. He helps promote his wife’s art works, when he isn’t running around doing everything else.

Klaus has been an activist for nearly 20 years helping educate, support and is a huge part in what medical marijuana is in the state of Connecticut.  He has written to local state, federal, and international politicians and judges on the behalf of the cannabis community. All seriousness aside, Klaus is one funny dude, the man has got some jokes.  Like myself, Klaus is not a big fan of large spaces and is more of a private person.  He wants the ability to travel back in time and lord knows what he would do first.

In the past, Klaus thrived in the foodservice industry, various construction trades, and in agricultural fields.  He hopes to one day be able to build a house in the Pacific Northwest and retire. If you ask me, great place to retire with amazing strains!  Klaus, like all of us should, strives to enjoy all that life has to experience!

Congrats to Klaus!  Keep inspiring us to be better people.

What are your favorite ways to medicate, I see that you always have an O.Pen close by?

Flower and edibles. Flowers for the everyday relief, especially at the end of the day. Edibles are my go-to for severe reoccurring episodes. I find that the oral ingestion has a stronger and longer lasting effect. The O.Pen makes for an anywhere, and always ready to use delivery system. It also works well while waiting for the edible to digest.

When did you first identify that marijuana was a better approach to treating your condition?

Almost immediately after my injury in 2007.

What drove you to become a marijuana advocate?

Initially, it was watching California pass prop 215. That then led to further research into the history of prohibition and seeing the harm and injustices caused by prohibition and false propaganda.

 When did you first start following the marijuana industry?

1996

What other types/strains of marijuana would you like to see available in Connecticut?

Skunk #1, white widow, and Jack Herer.  It would be nice to have a chewing gum and I miss that classic hash appearance and texture.

As a parent, how do you address the idea of medical marijuana in your house?

IIt is a plant. It produces compounds that alleviate my pain and spasms. When used responsibly, it has great benefits. It’s just that plain.

Do you have any advice for parents who medicate with marijuana?

Be discreet and responsible while medicating.  If your child asks a question in regards to MMJ, answer the question as honestly as possible, based upon the child’s age.

What does the future of CT medical marijuana look like to you?

I see the program growing in qualifying conditions and registered patients. Connecticut has a great group of activists who continually press for the expansion of the MMJ program to allow more patient access to this medication.

What are some of the hobbies/activities you like to take part in?

I like to play disc golf, fish, hike, garden, meditate, take it easy from time to time.

What is your favorite album / song to smoke to?

I’m fairly generic with this one, Pink Floyd- Dark Side of the Moon

If you are or know someone you would like to nominate for Dad of the Month, please email dad@dabbindad.com.