Admiral James “Sandy” Winnefeld on His Son’s Battle with Opioid Addiction: A Heartfelt Conversation
If we only knew then what we know now, we would still have our son with us.
Addiction doesn’t discriminate. This episode of Cover 2 Resources brings a deeply personal perspective from Admiral James “Sandy” Winnefeld, a retired four-star admiral and former Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Admiral Winnefeld shares the harrowing story of his son Jonathon's struggle with opioid addiction and the profound impact it had on their family.
As someone who once commanded the most powerful military on Earth, Admiral Winnefeld's candid discussion reveals the heartache and challenges faced when addiction hits home. In his conversation with host Greg McNeil, Admiral Winnefeld opens up about the difficulty of finding suitable treatment for Jonathon, especially given his dual diagnosis of addiction and mental health issues. He emphasizes the urgent need for public awareness, better prevention strategies, and community-based solutions to combat this crisis.
The Admiral also calls for more responsible opioid prescribing practices and accountability from pharmaceutical companies. The episode delves into the mission of Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic (SAFE), a non-profit founded by the Winnefeld family in memory of Jonathon. SAFE aims to support families affected by addiction and drive change in communities nationwide. This conversation is both poignant and informative, offering hope and practical insights for anyone grappling with addiction or supporting a loved one through it.
Tune in to hear Admiral Winnefeld's heartfelt account and learn how SAFE is making a difference in the ongoing fight against opioid addiction.