Louise Griffin's Fight Against Addiction: A Story of Hope and Resilience
Episode Overview
Louise Griffin shares her poignant journey of hope and resilience in the face of addiction and loss The episode delves into the challenges of addiction, the impact of losing a loved one, and the unyielding power of hope A raw and honest conversation that serves as a beacon of light for those navigating the complex journey of addiction and recovery Louise's unwavering commitment to supporting others is a testament to the indomitable human spirit A poignant reminder that no one has to suffer alone and that the support of others can make a profound difference
You don't have to suffer alone, whether you're a loved one of an addict, an addict yourself, or grieving. It's too hard. I know without the group that I had when my daughter relapsed, the group is what got me through. It was still hard, but I had someone there.
Imagine losing a child to addiction and turning that heartbreak into a mission to help others. That’s exactly what Louise Griffin, President of Zack’s Team Foundation, has done. In this episode of 'The Empty Chair', host Phil Lahey sits down with Louise to talk about her journey from tragedy to advocacy. Louise’s youngest son, Zachary, passed away from an accidental opiate overdose at just 21 years old.
Instead of letting grief consume her, she founded Zack’s Team Foundation to support families struggling with substance use disorder. Louise's story is not just about loss; it's about finding purpose amidst pain and offering a lifeline to those in need. She shares how the foundation helps families who can’t afford recovery living after in-patient treatment and works tirelessly to reduce the stigma surrounding addiction.
This conversation also delves into the importance of education and awareness, highlighted by Louise’s collaboration on the film 'If Only', aimed at educating teens and parents about the dangers of prescription drugs. For anyone touched by addiction, whether personally or through a loved one, this episode is a powerful reminder that hope and resilience can emerge from even the darkest of times.