‘Billy’s thriving’: family’s joy as boy who helped legalise cannabis medicine in UK turns 21

Billy Caldwell, who was not expected to survive infancy due to severe epilepsy, recently celebrated his 21st birthday in Northern Ireland. His mother, Charlotte Caldwell, recalls the early days when doctors couldn't control his seizures and sent him home to die, not expecting him to live past his first birthday in 2005. Billy, who is also autistic, has thrived, and his case was instrumental in legalizing cannabis medicine in the UK, offering hope and treatment for families facing similar challenges. Charlotte continues to advocate for improved access to prescription cannabis, highlighting the significance of her son's journey for broader public health and legal reforms.