From Tragedy to Advocacy: Ed Bisch's Fight Against Purdue Pharma
The more people who know [about Purdue Pharma], the better. So, thank you.
Imagine losing a child to a preventable tragedy. That's the heartbreaking reality Ed Bisch faced in February 2001 when he discovered his 18-year-old son, Eddie, had died from an OxyContin overdose. In this episode of the Addict II Athlete Podcast, Coach Blu Robinson sits down with Ed to discuss his unexpected journey into activism against Purdue Pharma and the Sackler family, the creators of OxyContin.
Ed shares the gut-wrenching moment he learned about his son's death and the subsequent discovery that local kids were falling victim to the same fate. Fueled by grief and a desire for justice, Ed founded Relatives Against Purdue Pharma (RAPP) and has spent over two decades sounding alarms about the dangers of opioids. His relentless efforts have taken him to public hearings, trials, and protests, all aimed at holding Purdue Pharma accountable for the opioid crisis.
This episode isn't just about Ed's personal loss; it's a deep dive into his tireless advocacy work and the broader impact of the opioid epidemic. From his interactions with Purdue Pharma to his collaboration with other activists like Beth Macy, author of 'Dopesick,' Ed's story is a powerful testament to the strength of a grieving parent turned activist.
Whether you're directly affected by addiction or simply interested in social justice, Ed's journey offers valuable insights into the fight for accountability and change. Tune in to hear how one father's tragedy sparked a movement that continues to challenge powerful institutions and bring awareness to the devastating effects of opioids.