July 8, 2020
How This Nurse Used The COVID-19 Pandemic To Pivot Into The CBD Business
The spread of COVID-19 has caused many people across the country to make huge pivots in their careers due to the economic ramifications and long-lasting societal effects. For Katrina Thompkins, who was working as a cardiovascular ICU nurse at the time of the COVID-19 health crisis, it was an opportunity to become an entrepreneur and open a CBD business.
Thompkins’ interest in CBD, an active ingredient in cannabis derived from the hemp plant, started after hearing patients’ testimonials about using it to relieve pain. According to a recent survey, 84% of people believe CBD can replace opioids, which are highly addictive. “As a [nurse], I have always focused on the health and wellness of my patients. I became interested in CBD as a treatment for chronic pain, after learning about some of my patients using it to help them find relief,” said Thompkins in an email interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE.
She started K’dara CBD for both humans and pets while still working as a nurse. “After that initial interest, I began doing extensive research into the industry, products, and more, and as I continued to learn about CBD, the ideas behind K’dara CBD began to form. K’dara offers organic, full-spectrum CBD products, developed in part with a pharmacist, for both humans and pets,” she continued.
“Over the years, the No.1 thing that I have always believed in is the value in investing in your health. It’s the best thing that one can do for themselves,” explained Thompkins. “As I worked as a nurse, I felt the need to continue to contribute to society with my passion for health and wellness. Starting a CBD business allowed me to continue to focus on health and wellness and also learn about a startup business and grow my passion for entrepreneurship.”