We all have the power to effect change. Within ourselves, in our communities and even the world.Like so many others, I have experienced the devastation of losing loved ones to addiction. I have spent a good part of my life trying to prevent other families from experiencing the devastation that my family has endured. 👉 Here’s what I believe: we can greatly reduce (and possibly eliminate) addiction-driven crime and overdose deaths by understanding the bigger picture. By taking the deep dive. By talking about addiction and mental health without feeling shame. By now, most of us have a personal story relating to a friend, family member, client, patient or public figure who has died due to the opioid epidemic. My personal experience has driven me to challenge the status quo as a former District Attorney and to advocate for my clients as a criminal defense attorney. My greatest contribution to the people in the Adirondacks will be helping to normalize the use of plant medicine (Cannabis and CBD for starters) to create a safer alternative to pharmaceuticals, heroin, methamphetamine, crack cocaine and alcohol. I want to be a change maker. That’s where Mileva comes in. I’m creating a purpose driven movement to educate and inform the people in the Adirondacks on the many benefits of cannabis legalization. I will help get cannabis in the hands of those who need it most. Beyond its brick-and-mortar dispensaries, Mileva will include activism, education, social responsibility and community building to support, heal, and create much needed change. It's my way to continue working for the people in the North Country while at the same time finally being in alignment with my values and beliefs. All roads led me here.If this resonates with you, I’d love to connect!