Medical Mary Jane adds a hit of legitimacy to Ann Arbor's Hash Bash

The push for medical marijuana is growing here in Southeast Michigan. Ranging from compassion centers to the success of this year's Hash Bash in Ann Arbor, the plight of the pot smoker is taking shape. The idea that it is used for medicinal purposes and not just recreationally also brings a side of legitimacy to the debate. It's not just the stoner down the road who wants it legalized, it's the neighbor with the anxiety problem, too.

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Police estimated 5,000 people were there, drawn by sunshine as well as enthusiasm for Michigan's 15-month-old law legalizing marijuana for medicinal purposes.

"How many of you are patients? Hold up your cards!" shouted Hash Bash emcee Adam Brook, 42, of Royal Oak.

Hundreds held aloft the state cards that show they are patients who can legally possess up to 2.5 ounces of the weed.

Openly smoking was Dennis Stoffer, 45, of Port Huron, in a wheelchair since a 2006 motorcycle accident.

"Time to come out and support the cause," said his wife, Becky Stoffer, 53.

Marijuana is much better for her husband than the side effects of the powerful pain pills he once took, she said.

"The only side effect (from marijuana) is him getting the munchies," she said, referring to the drug's tendency to make users hungry.

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