Facing the Overdose Crisis: Stories of Loss, Hope, and Action
My goal is to have care coaches in hospitals across the United States and their job is to give you non-pharmaceutical solutions to pain.
Picture this: 107,000 lives lost to drug overdoses in a single year. It's a staggering number, and behind each statistic is a story of heartbreak and resilience. This episode of 'Addiction Talk' tackles the overdose epidemic head-on, bringing together voices that have been deeply affected by this crisis. You'll hear from Cammie Wolf Rice, an activist who turned her grief into action after losing her son to an opioid overdose.
Her nonprofit, the Christopher Wolf Crusade, aims to educate people about the dangers of prescription pain medication and promote alternative pain management methods. Also joining the conversation is Philip Van Guilder, known as the 'Narcan Man', who is dedicated to spreading awareness about naloxone, the life-saving opioid overdose antidote. Dr. Mark Calarco offers practical advice on how to use naloxone, emphasizing its importance in saving lives.
The episode doesn't just stop at sharing personal stories; it also explores broader issues like the role of fentanyl in the surge of overdose deaths and the need for care coaches in hospitals. By the end of this episode, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the overdose crisis and feel inspired by the incredible efforts being made to combat it.
Whether you're directly affected by addiction or simply want to be more informed, this episode offers valuable insights and a sense of hope.