Turning Grief into Action: April Rovero's Fight Against Prescription Drug Abuse
Episode Overview
April Rovero shares her personal tragedy and subsequent activism. Founding of the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse (NCAPDA). Importance of holding doctors accountable for reckless prescribing. Providing free Narcan training to combat opioid overdoses. Challenges in accessing treatment facilities for young people.
I just felt strongly that I needed to start the organisation I did, which was the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse.
In this heartfelt episode of 'Courage to Hope', Tony LaGreca welcomes April Rovero, a powerhouse advocate from California, who shares her deeply personal story of loss and activism. After losing her son, Joey, to a prescription drug overdose, April transformed her grief into action by founding the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse (NCAPDA). Her journey is one of resilience and determination, as she battles to make communities safer and more aware of the dangers of prescription drug misuse.
April recounts the tragic events leading to Joey's death, shedding light on the reckless prescribing practices that contributed to his overdose. Her tireless efforts led to the prosecution of the doctor responsible, highlighting the importance of accountability in the medical field. April's advocacy doesn't stop there; she has been instrumental in raising awareness about the opioid crisis, providing free Narcan training, and supporting local health departments.
Tony and April also discuss the broader impact of the opioid epidemic, touching on issues like the high cost of naloxone and the lack of treatment facilities for young people. April's work with schools and communities aims to educate and prevent further tragedies, making a significant difference at both local and national levels. This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of education, community support, and relentless advocacy in the fight against substance abuse.
Tune in to hear April's inspiring story and learn how you can contribute to making a difference in your own community.