Andrew McKenna's Journey: From Addiction to Advocacy
It's not just the individual suffering, which, of course, is a tragic situation, tragic thing, but it's much bigger than that. You know there's a stigma that is pervasive across the country with addiction and it could be any sort of addiction, substance use disorder.
Have you ever wondered how someone can rise from the depths of addiction to become a beacon of hope and change? In this gripping episode of 'Collateral Damage', hosts Maureen Cavanagh and Michael Wilson sit down with Andrew McKenna, the author of 'Sheer Madness'. Andrew opens up about his harrowing battle with addiction and his incredible journey back into the professional world. His story isn't just about personal recovery; it's a powerful testament to resilience and the human spirit.
But that's not all. The episode dives deep into crucial issues like prison reform, drug courts, and community support systems. Andrew sheds light on the harsh realities faced by those battling addiction within the prison system, emphasizing the dire need for reform. He discusses the legal struggles for methadone access in jails and highlights the lack of resources allocated to support incarcerated individuals with addiction issues.
Maureen and Michael guide the conversation with empathy and insight, making it clear that addiction's impact extends far beyond the individual. They explore the stigma surrounding addiction and stress the importance of addressing co-occurring mental health issues. The episode is a call to action, urging listeners to advocate for change within their communities. Whether you're personally affected by addiction or simply want to understand its broader societal impacts, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
It's a raw, honest, and ultimately hopeful discussion that you won't want to miss.